Santa Fe, New Mexico's Best Hotels: From La Fonda to Eldorado Hotel & Spa

The city of Santa Fe, known as the "City Different," is one of the top travel destinations in the world. Nestled at 7,000 feet, this historic city - the second oldest city in the United States - truly does offer something for everyone with its rich history and culture mixed with its wide variety of activities and attractions. Seemingly countless galleries and museums fill the city's beautiful downtown area. Top-notch restaurants featuring a wide range of cuisine options make the city a hot spot for foodies, while the area's various wineries are sure to please wine connoisseurs. The shopping opportunities are endless in Santa Fe, as are the opportunities to enjoy an eclectic mix of live music. Outdoor recreational activities also abound, from hiking and skiing to horseback riding, golf, and river rafting. Luxurious spas, pedi-cab tours, psychic readings, green chile, and cooking classes are some of the other many draws of this beautiful city. The city also plays host to numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the ever popular Indian Market in August, as well as Spanish Market, the International Folk Art market, the Santa Fe Film Festival, Fiesta de Santa Fe, and more.

There definitely isn't a shortage when it comes to things to do when in Santa Fe. However, when all is said and done and you are ready to kick back and relax at your Santa Fe hotel, there are some Santa Fe hotels that rise above the rest to become the best. I've compiled a list of my top five choices for the best hotels in Santa Fe that are sure to make your visit to the "City Different" unforgettable!

Eldorado Hotel & Spa

The Eldorado Hotel & Spa is undeniably beautiful, especially in the evening when the hotel's soft lighting draws you in and makes you want to come in and rest in unprecedented luxury. This newly remodeled four diamond 219 room hotel is located within a very short walk to the Plaza, and boasts fantastic views. The hotel features an on-site four star restaurant as well as an on-site spa. At the Eldorado signature Santa Fe style and art mixes with modern conveniences and luxury including high speed internet access, iPod docks, mini-bars, flat screen HDTVs, an available business center and fitness center, as well as room service, valet, and concierge.

Locate and Contact: The Eldorado Hotel & Spa is located at 309 W. San Francisco in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For more information please call them at 1.800.955.4455 or visit them on the web at www.eldoradohotel.com.

La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa

The La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa is like an oasis of calm from the moment you set foot on their six acre property. Even though this luxurious escape is close to it all its easy to forget that you are located right in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, as this enchanting 157 room Pueblo revival style hotel and its beautifully landscaped outdoors makes you feel so far away from everything. Once you set foot into the La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa you will be pampered with old-world charm and service mixed with all the modern amenities you desire -- including complimentary car service. You will also enjoy the on-site restaurant, on-site romantic bar, and on-site high end spa. Don't forget to ask about the story behind the Staab house which has been featured on Unsolved Mysteries and various ghost hunting programs.

Locate and Contact: The La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa is located at 330 East Palace Avenue in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For more information please call them at 1.866.331.7625 or visit them on the web at http://laposada.rockresorts.com.

Inn and Spa at Loretto

The Inn and Spa at Loretto is an enchanting 134 room hotel with architectural design inspired by the Taos Pueblo. This hotel is within walking distance of the Plaza and is right next door to the famous Loretto Chapel. This hotel boasts wireless high-speed internet, valet parking, airport transfers, a business and fitness center, room service, bell hop, and in-room mini bars with mini personal oxygen tanks (which come in handy for those having trouble adjusting to the high altitude), and more. An on-site spa, restaurant, and lounge with live entertainment, as well as on-site shops and galleries are like the cherry on top.

Locate and Contact: The Inn and Spa at Loretto is located at 211 Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For more information please call them at 1.800.727.5531 or visit them on the web at www.innatloretto.com.

La Fonda

The La Fonda hotel located on the Santa Fe Plaza is a historic hotel with a rich history and the perfect location. This 167 room hotel features unique Santa Fe style interiors which boast one of a kind furniture and art. All of the amenities you've come t expect from a luxury hotel can be found at La Fonda, from free high speed wireless internet access and turndown service to room service, multi-lingual concierge, and valet laundry service. The hotel is also home to a gift shop, newsstand, a number of specialty shops and boutiques, as well as on-site spa, restaurant, and lounge with live entertainment. La Fonda puts you directly in the heart of Santa Fe, and provides you with an authentic Santa Fe experience.

Locate and Contact: The La Fonda Hotel is located at 100 E. San Francisco Street in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For more information please call them at 1.800.523.5002 or visit them on the web at www.lafondasantafe.com.

Inn of the Anasazi

The Inn of the Anasazi is a breathtaking 58-room boutique hotel located just steps from the Plaza. When you pull up in front of the hotel you are greeted by the friendly valets, and once you set foot inside you are greeted with a warm and intimate atmosphere. The hotel offers free wireless internet access, dog-friendly rooms, concierge service, turndown service, mini bar, and video library, as well as in-room massages and aromatherapy treatments. The Inn of the Anasazi also features an on-site world class restaurant and bar which is very popular with visitors and locals alike.

Locate and Contact: The Inn of the Anasazi is located at 113 Washington Avenue in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For more information please call them at 1.800.688.8100 or visit them on the web at www.innoftheanasazi.com.