Custom Designed Passive Solar Adobe Home, curved walls, high ceilings, big views
Location: El Rito, New Mexico, USA (Near Santa Fe, Taos, Abiquiu, Ojo Caliente Hot Springs) View Map
Accommodations: House, 2 Bedrooms + Sunroom, 1 Bath (Sleeps 4-5)
Keywords: country house, passive solar design, adobe home, custom built, rural community, natural setting, forest, mountains, meadows, water
Casa Ambrosia is nestled in total peace and privacy on 4 acres, surrounded by tall cottonwood, pine, and oak trees, with an expansive view of the pastoral river valley of El Rito and the majestic Sangre de Cristo mountains off in the distance.
This wonderful, comfortable, and serene hideaway accommodates four+ people. The uniquely designed passive solar adobe house with high wood ceilings and impressive vigas is spacious and filled with light. There is a large semi-circular sun room, built like a sunken kiva, that is designed after Casa Grande in Chaco Canyon. There is one bath with tub and shower and two large bedrooms, each with a spectacular view. The softly curved walls of most rooms create a calm and nurturing environment. A fireplace adds to the warmth and comfort of the radiant floor heat. And along with great indoor living and dining spaces, there is a covered patio for outdoor dining and relaxation.
Casa Ambrosia borders the mountainous Carson National Forest and you can hike for hundreds of miles right out your back door. A short drive takes you to a creekside trail leading to Potrero Falls amidst tall Ponderous pines and aspens, or to a dramatic outcropping of volcanic upthrust near a shady stream. Nearby forest roads lead you to high mountain meadows filled with wildflowers and streams and breathtaking views, or off into desert canyonlands, with red cliff walls and towering rock formations. In winter, snowshoeing and cross country skiing are great pastimes. Year round, the very clear night sky is perfect for stargazing. Casa Ambrosia is 12 miles north of Abiquiu, with it's stunningly beautiful lake for swimming and boating, and 8 miles west of the beautifully appointed Ojo Caliente Hot Springs Resort, with a variety of mineral pools to soak in, plenty of massage and spa treatments to choose from, and a delicious restaurant to top off an adventurous day.
The historic village of El Rito has it's own charm. This old Hispanic town has a well-supplied library, a traditionally-built adobe church, and El Farolito, a small family restaurant, world famous for its authentic northern New Mexico cuisine, recommended in the Rand McNally Road Atlas and Gourmet Magazine. Their red and green chili dishes are delicious and very reasonable. Nearby in the village of Abiquiu, you can tour the home and studio of world reknowned painter Georgia O'Keefe, and further north in Chama, you can ride the historic Toltec Railroad through the high mountains, catching the glory of the changing colors of Fall.
One hour to Santa Fe, and about the same to Taos, you can enjoy all kinds of fine dining, live music, museums, galleries, boutique shops, antique stores, films, and much more. Both Santa Fe and Taos have ski basins, and there are several golf courses in the area.
More photos are available. Just call or email us.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer : A laundry room offers a washer and dryer, drying racks, an iron with board, and detergent supplies.
- Dryer
- Linens Provided : Down comforters, electric blankets, regular blankets, pillows, sheets for summer or winter, for both the King and Queen beds.
- Off Street Parking
- Parking for RV/Boat/Trailer
- Wood Fireplace : Besides the radiant floor heating you can enjoy the cozy wood fireplace. Firewood is provided.
- Beds
- King Bed : A deluxe King-sized Select Comfort Dual Chamber adjustable bed. Each side adjusts separately for the perfect firmness for each person.
- Queen Bed : A very comfy Queen bed with pillowtop mattress.
- Twin/Single Bed : There is a single-sized air mattress, with pump, sheets and sleeping bag. Perfect for a child or extra guest.
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV
- DVD
- VCR
- Video Library : There are some DVDs for your viewing pleasure.
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Music Library : There are some CDs to enjoy.
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : The kitchen is fully equipped, with plenty of dishes, glassware, pots and pans, utensils. Also includes small appliances like toaster, blender, coffee maker and coffee beans grinder, toaster oven, baking and serving dishes.
- Cooking Utensils Provided : Good variety of cooking utensils, barbecue tools, etc...
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill : The front patio offers a gas grill for outdoor dining.
- Deck/Patio : The patio offers a BBQ grill, a table and chairs for outdoor dining, and lounge chairs for hours of leisurely relaxation with a view.
- View/Location
- Mountain View : The majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, snowcapped for 6 months of the year, off in the distance, with smaller hills, meadows, streams and forests all around.
- Ski-Out : This is a great area for crosscountry skiing, right out the back door, and up into the forest for many miles, along forest roads, or through open country.
- Communications
- Telephone : Phone available. Calling card required for long-distance calls.
- Cell Phone : Cell phone reception is inconsistent in this area. We recommend using Skype while you're here.
- Computer : A computer with wireless internet and a printer and desk are provided.
- WiFi (Wireless Internet)
- Suitability
- Pet Friendly : This is a pet friendly home. The surroundings here are paradise for your dog(s). Please bring bedding for your pets.
- Handicapped Accessible (may have limitations) : The bathroom and one bedroom (has one step leading up to it) are on the ground floor, as well as the kitchen and living room areas. The sunroom is down three steps, and the second bedroom is upstairs.
- Wheelchair Accessible (may have limitations) : See above for details.
- Kid Friendly : If your children are very small, you may want to bring portable gates, to block off areas with stairs.
- Smoking Not Allowed : The front portal with table and chairs is available for smoking outdoors.
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Jet Skiing
- Swimming
- Windsurfing
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Cross Country Skiing
- Downhill/Alpine Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Snowmobiling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Basketball Court
- Antiquing
- Live Theatre
- Horseback Riding
- Hot Air Ballooning
- Rafting
- Sledding/Tubing
- Hiking
- Rock Climbing
- Restaurants
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
2 Adults - $160/night (2 night minimum) - $960/week - $2800/month.
Each Additional Adult - $25/night.
Kids under 18 free.
Pets - One-time $25 fee per pet.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Map & Owner's Profile
Year Purchased: 1998
Why the Owner Chose El Rito
When I moved back to New Mexico I wanted to live somewhere peaceful and remote, yet not too far from civilization. El Rito was perfect. Nestled in a tranquil river valley, with countless trails to explore in the surrounding mountains, yet only an hour's drive to a hotspot like Santa Fe or Taos, I found the perfect balance. Years later, when I moved to Santa Fe for professional opportunities, I began renting Casa Ambrosia as a vacation home. For several years now, I have enjoyed sharing this nurturing home with it's beautiful natural surroundings with many guests, and it is my wish that others to come may also experience the restorative possibilities that abound here.
The Unique Benefits at this House
Whether it's getting away from a busy job, wanting the peace and quiet of this serene place for rest and renewal, or looking for new adventures out in nature, this is a great place to visit. I love the amazing variety of terrain around here, from the high mountains with their meadows, lakes and streams, to the lower desert canyonlands with their colorful cliffs and magical rock formations. And with Santa Fe, Taos, Bandelier, and other interesting places so nearby, there's never a shortage of things to do or see. There's truly something for everyone to enjoy!
Abiquiu Lake is great for swimming and boating with truly stunning views in all directions. Amazing hiking areas, also visit Georgia O'Keefe's home and studio, and pueblo ruins. 15 minutes drive.
There's something for everyone: the famous Santa Fe Opera, fine dining, live music, boutique shopping, antique stores, art galleries, museums, Trader Jo's. One hour drive from El Rito.
Home of the very popular Taos Ski Basin. Plenty of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visit Taos Indian Pueblo, and the breathtaking Rio Grande Gorge. One hour from El Rito.
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs is a beautifully developed natural hot springs, with soaking pools, and massage and other spa treatments, and a very good restaurant. 20 minutes from El Rito.
Bandelier is a great place for hiking, and for exploring ancient ruins and cliff dwellings. About an hour's drive from Casa Ambrosia.
Home of the Albuquerque International Airport, and the impressive annual hot air Balloon Festival each Fall. Take the new Santa Fe Rail Runner for a scenic day trip. 2 hours from El Rito.
Owner's Map of El Rito
I grew up here in Northern New Mexico, and have spent many years exploring the wilderness areas nearby. Later I lived in exciting places like Washington DC and San Francisco. But eventually I felt called back home, and I haven't regretted it since. I find great solace in the wide open lands, vast blue skies, and I appreciate the diverse cultural history of this area very much.
Property Photos
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- Custom Designed Passive Solar Adobe Home, curved walls, high ceilings, big views - Peaceful El Rito Hideaway Casa Ambrosia House
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- Fully equipped kitchen and dining area, opens into living room, big bright space - Peaceful El Rito Hideaway Casa Ambrosia House
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- A warm, cozy woodburning fireplace in the spacious living room, firewood provide - Peaceful El Rito Hideaway Casa Ambrosia House
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- Upstairs bedroom, rounded walls, vigas, large windows facing mountains, king bed
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- Downstairs bedroom, rounded walls, queen bed, large windows with mountain views
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- Sunroom for dining, relaxing, and taking in the views, lots of light and warmth
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- Winter view from bedrooms and sunroom, great seasonal changes in light and color
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- Changing colors as the day progresses, view from bedrooms, portal, and sunroom
Traveler Reviews (14)
Great Place to stay
Guest: Napa610
(Central IL)
Date of Stay: 07/05/11
Review Submitted: 07/08/11
WOW! Everything you might need or want is here. If you want to be away from the hussle and bussle this is the place. It is 1.5 miles off the main road but well woth the bumpy ride. You will enjoy the peace and quiet, and will enjoy the fully equiped kitchen. This home gave my wife and I a great break away from our nomal life.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing, pet owners, romantic getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
We Loved Casa Ambrosia! A Perfect Retreat!
Guest: Very Happy Cabiner
(Albuquerque)
Date of Stay: 08/26/10
Review Submitted: 04/04/11
We had such an amazing weekend in the beautiful Casa Ambrosia abode. Every morning started with a hike, and then we cooked in the lovely and well-stocked kitchen, read outdoors on the patio with a gorgeous view, watched movies in the cozy living room, took long baths, and slept in the fabulously clean and airy bedroom with a wonderful nature view. Our car never left the driveway. The house is by far the best, most stunning, most well-stocked we've ever stayed in for a weekend getaway. The round rooms, high ceilings, tiled floors, windows everywhere, and unique layout made us want to build our own Casa Ambrosia someday. We were so grateful for the incredible hospitality and generosity in sharing this little slice of paradise with us.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
Relaxing Visit
Guest: Tom
(Albuquerque)
Date of Stay: 04/24/10
Review Submitted: 04/03/11
Casa Ambrosia is a beautiful & secluded retreat. Convenient to get to from central New Mexico and Southern Colorado. We had a wonderful time mountain biking, visiting Ojo Caliente and Ghost Ranch, fishing and just relaxing at this beautiful home. I would recommend it it to anybody for a long weekend or extended stay. Thanks, Alicia.
Recommended for:Girls getaway, romantic getaway, age 55+.
Summer 2010
Guest: Esther
(New York, NY)
Date of Stay: 08/19/10
Review Submitted: 03/28/11
We stayed in Casa Ambrosia in August 2010. We could not have wished for a better place. We loved staying there, the tranquility, the sunsets, the stars at night... the kitchen was extremely well equipped, the barbecue was a very nice addition. There were a lot of books to read (which we enjoyed) and the wireless internet worked perfectly. We had a wonderful time, and we hope we can come back! it was an excellent base to explore New Mexico, and so wonderfully close to Ojo Caliente hot springs.... very recommended!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing, pet owners, age 55+.
I am hooked.
Guest: D
(Paxico)
Date of Stay: 09/13/10
Review Submitted: 03/27/11
We had originally planned to stay two nights, it was so amazing we asked to stay an additional night. You feel like you are inside a telescope at night, so much closer to the stars than back in Kansas." I have told everyone in my family how great is was, and I plan to go back. I think I could stay there for an entire week and be perfectly content. The owner was wonderful. This was the best experience we have had with VRBO properties.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, people with disabilities, romantic getaway, age 55+.
Larry
Guest: Larry
(Houston Tx)
Date of Stay: 09/26/10
Review Submitted: 03/23/11
"We had a peaceful, restful time. We return to our jobs well rested and look forward to returning to the area next year!"
Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car.
Peace, quiet, beauty
Guest: David
(Austin, Texas)
Date of Stay: 12/25/10
Review Submitted: 03/22/11
We've retreated to Casa Ambrosia each of the past two years during the Christmas holidays. I'm sure we will go many more. The house, the setting, the privacy, the views, the quiet, all make it a perfect retreat. Hiking starts right outside the door, Abiquiu is nearby. This place is nothing but magic. Watching one sunrise through the large windows of the upstairs bedroom is enough to wipe away a year's stress. The house itself is quite comfortable. We love the fireplace and sunroom. There's a television, but why turn it on? When our time is up, we never want to leave. I highly recommend it for those seeking some peaceful time.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, romantic getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
Fabulous vacation!
Guest: Cyndie
(Kansas City, MO)
Date of Stay: 07/01/10
Review Submitted: 03/22/11
What a wonderful time we had! We woke to beautiful vistas and went to sleep under zillions of stars. Weather was perfect. Couldn't ask for anything better. The sunroom was a great hangout for all of us. We spent the week with our two dogs who enjoyed the new sites and smells. Everything exceeded our expectations, from initial inquiry through the entire stay. Thank you for sharing Casa Ambrosia with us! There's still more we'd love to do. Next time!
Recommended for:Pet owners, romantic getaway.
Seclusion with a view
Guest: Floyd
(Canon City, CO)
Date of Stay: 06/03/10
Review Submitted: 03/21/11
Casa Ambrosia is on four acres but feels like more thanks to the lush vegetation which surrounds the property. The view towards the mountains really makes it;always changing; one night we watched an electrical storm which really put on a show. The property was clean and well-equipped. The owner was very helpful, in fact when we encountered a plugged up drain she personally drove two hours after a full day of work to take care of it. I would recommend this property to friends and relatives.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, age 55+.
Casa Ambrosia is the Perfect Retreat
Guest: Mike & Becky
(Great Bend, Kansas)
Date of Stay: 09/23/10
Review Submitted: 03/21/11
A stay at Casa Ambrosia was just what we needed! We are leaving feeling relaxed, renewed and able to be creative again. So glad we stayed an extra night. It made all the difference. While we were here we soaked at Ojo Caliente until we could barely walk, took a nap beside the Rio Chama at Abiquiu Lake, and sat on the patio late at night listening to the forest & star gazing. Thank you for sharing your amazing home -- so comfortable, not pretentious, just perfect! We've stayed in million dollar homes in Santa Fe but now we're hooked on El Rito, Northern New Mexico & Casa Ambrosia. Hope to be back again soon.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing, romantic getaway, age 55+.
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #182867
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