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La Casita - a writer's cottage

Photo gallery for La Casita - a writer's cottage

Exterior
Aerial view
Exterior
Exterior
Private kitchen

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

La Casita - a writer's cottage

Welcome to our guesthouse nestled among 200 year old cottonwood trees overlooking acres of pasture with roaming miniature donkeys, llamas, ostrich emu and our horses!

This is an exquisite setting on a family ranch formerly run with cattle and bison. Our family has been here for over 300 years, farming, ranching and tending the land. This is not your typical setting. Its bucolic, fresh, open and....green!

The casita is a one bedroom, one bath with a balcony to enjoy the valley and mountain views while sipping your tea in the morning. We sit on about 20 acres and a private driveway, but the "jewel of Taos County- Arroyo Seco" is just a 10 minute walk down the road with 2 restaurants, and Taos Cow Ice Cream (voted in the top 10 in the nation!). There is also a grocery store, bar and a local dive to enjoy famous New Mexican chili!

If you prefer to walk in the opposite direction, you can walk up to trails that offer the best of wild and natural in Taos County. Walk along the creek to the craggy cliffs, or up to the waterfalls that veil the caves behind them. Or sit among the cottonwoods and enjoy a spectacular sunset!

Past guests describe our place as:
“Stunning”
“AMAZING”
“Extraordinarily beautiful”
“Hidden gem”
“Perfect, perfect, perfect!”

We are also a WEDDING VENUE! We’ve hosted several weddings in this idyllic setting. Imagine a big white tent among curated gardens, grassy fields, expansive mountain views and surrounded by exotic animals! Past weddings have included a hot air balloon and a horse-drawn carriage. Take a peek:

https://sites.google.com/view/taos-cakes/wedding-venue?authuser=0

Come see for yourself!

We pride ourselves in a pet-free and smoke-free setting. Please note that we have cigarette smoke detectors that are checked after every stay. If there is an indication that there was smoking or pets in the guesthouse we will add a $450 cleaning fee so rest assured you will be in a smoke free setting! Finally, the entrance is up one flight of stairs so if you have trouble with stairs, this might not be your best housing option.

Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: weddings
Wedding venue has additional fees. Please inquire
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50
Note from host: Wedding venue has additional fees. Please inquire
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Arroyo Seco

Located in Arroyo Seco, this holiday home is in the mountains. Rottenstone Pottery and KTAOS Solar Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include John Dunn Bridge and Governor Bent House and Museum. Kakawa Chocolate House and Twirl Toystore and Playspace are also worth visiting.
View more Holiday homes in Arroyo SecoOpens in a new window
Map
Arroyo Seco, NM

What's nearby

  • Rottenstone Pottery - 4 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Manzanita Canyon Trailhead - 9 min drive - 10.0 km
  • KTAOS Solar Center - 11 min drive - 11.9 km
  • Millicent Rogers Museum - 13 min drive - 14.1 km
  • Taos Ski Valley - 15 min drive - 16.7 km

Getting around

  • Taos, NM (TSM-Taos Regional) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Pizanos - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Medley. - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Tiwa Kitchen Restaurant - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Toribios - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Golden Piñon - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is La Casita - a writer's cottage pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at La Casita - a writer's cottage?

As of 9 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at La Casita - a writer's cottage on 11 Apr 2026 start from £182, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at La Casita - a writer's cottage?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at La Casita - a writer's cottage?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at La Casita - a writer's cottage?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is La Casita - a writer's cottage located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is 1.4 mi (2.3 km) from Rottenstone Pottery and 2 mi (3.2 km) from Salto Del Agua Cave & Waterfall. Carson National Forest and KTAOS Solar Center are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 40 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 40 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I’ve stayed here before. Very nice property. Really like the location. Notes are nice. Property has everything I would need. Can’t think of anything that wasn’t great.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a great place! Very private and clean cottage. I was very happy with my choice to stay in this serene and peaceful setting.My host was wonderful. He was responsive and prompt in our communications.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kori H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Clean, quiet and perfect for our family weekend.

Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2022
Kori, thank you for staying with us! It was a pleasure to meet you! Please come back again to enjoy another one of our memorable seasons!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Larry R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Week away from south Texas heat

As a whole “excellent”. Property and overall location was beautiful and very accessible to other areas for enjoyment. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aurelia S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I stayed for six nights and David and Kris’s delightful, nicely equipped little apartment above their garage. The location is idyllic and so peaceful. I loved sitting on the balcony and watching the sun rise over Taos Mountain and then set down in the valley. The views are magnificent. It’s an easy rural walk down to Arroyo Seco. And an equally convenient drive into Taos. I loved every moment.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Sept 2025
Thank you for staying with us, Aurelia! We hope you will come back and enjoy another season in our magical little corner!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good stsy

Another good stay
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Garage Apartment

The place was great! Awesome location very close to Taos Ski Valley, lots of local options in Arroyo Seco, as well as a quick drive to the city of Taos. The hosts were super accommodating, we really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Feb 2023
A nicer couple you will not find! Highly recommended! Please come stay with us again and sample another season!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Beautiful property, clean and well-appointed. Hosts Kris and David were very welcoming and friendly. Location is near Taos. Great for hiking, sightseeing, and many outdoor activities.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anna J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our original hotel overbooked even though we had a reservation on a trip to go skiing in Taos. We needed a quick pivot for our stay and my husband found this. The property and casita was well kept with easy access and lovely views. Communication with the host was excellent and timely. I will say one of the most unique and awesome parts of our stay was seeing and meeting the animals that live in the pasture. My kids and I sat at the fence edge the first day for a full 20 minutes just watching them in the pasture. We even got to meet Ceasar the Yak the second day! If you are looking for a quiet spot that has easy access to the mountain or downtown its a great option. You are also very close to Taos Cow which has amazing ice cream and breakfast.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Jan 2026
Thank you for staying with us! Caesar sends his regards!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kermit e.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ski Trip

Nice views! Close to Taos Ski Valley.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Dec 2023
Kermit, thank you for staying with us! We hope to have you as a regular visitor!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooke J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely and serene

Enjoyed our stay - beautiful property with so many amazing animals! David was very kind and responsive. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place close to Taos Ski Valley.

Loved it. Very clean and quiet(except for the dogs barking at night).
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 May 2022
Mystery of the barking dog: solved. Long answer Sandra, but our normally quiet neighborhood Great Pyrenees has been barking because of the nightly influx of coyotees (and even mountain lions) feasting on a nearby carcass of a horse that recently died of old age. We sincerely apologize for the unusual barking, but are glad you enjoyed your stay otherwise.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alfred B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This is a great place to get away

The property is beautiful with the animals and the extremely friendly cats. I would recommend this for a couple or couple with a small child. It was crowded with our teenager.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dave R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little getaway

Beautiful secluded property within a short driving distance to all that Taos has to offer. The guest house was clean and lovely and the grounds were wonderful to stroll around and see the horses, yaks, donkeys, lamas and the two very friendly barn cats. We had a wonderful time.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Penelope (Penny) P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful Getaway in Taos

La Casita is a fabulous gem of a property located just outside of Taos. Everything about this property was perfect for us. It was meticulously clean and I loved sitting on the balcony in the cool mornings. Next time I’m in Taos, I hope La Casita is available!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Arroyo Seco quiet.

We stayed 3 nights for a Presidents' day wkd ski trip. Very easty to get to and convenient arroyo seco location. Well appointed garage apartment with everything we needed for a comfortable stay conveniently located to both the town and the ski valley. We will likely be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome

We had a wonderful stay at La Casita! The property is beautiful, and it is so fun to gaze upon the animals. We even made friends with a yak named Caesar. We will stay here again on our next Taos ski vacation.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Mar 2024
Thank you for staying with us! I was a delight to have you! Caesar has been asking for you ;) We hope you come back to enjoy another season at La Casita!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marsha J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Views❤️

Would definitely stay here again. Next time I would probably come a different month though. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the views. (and all the animals) Got to pet my first yak❤️
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Aug 2023
Caesar the yak is still asking for you! Thanks for coming!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Morgan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect spot

Perfect spot for a quick trip to Taos! We wanted to bring our two young kids to see the mountains and real snow and could not have asked for a more ideal place to stay! Beautiful views from the front yard, the animals and land were a whole added bonus. Quick drive up the mountain, or back into town. The house had everything we needed, and the owners were a quick friendly text away.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar 2024
Thank you for staying with us, Morgan. We hope you come again to experience the other seasons. We have many regular guests. You will not be disappointed!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Lovely private coachhouse/casita in a beautiful setting. Peaceful and quiet with only the occasional bray from a local donkey that added some late-afternoon charm. The unit has nice amenities - very comfortable bed and a well stocked kitchen. Great morning an afternoon light with a pleasant little walk around the property and a in-depth guide to local hikes. Convenient to both Taos, Arroyo Seco and the ski area.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hedy F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Complete Serenity!

This is such a peaceful and serene place and we recommend it wholeheartedly. It gets an 11 out of 10! The hosts were charming and the apartment was spacious, comfortable and very well appointed. The property is historic and the animals were a big treat! Thank you again for a marvelous stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Sept 2021
Hedy, thank you for your kind review! We hope you’ll come back to experience one of the other wonderful seasons here! All very dramatic!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Stay here!!! It is perfect. Very close to Taos but far enough away to feel like you are in the country. David is a great host. The place is clean and has all you need. The animals are amazing.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2022
Thank you for the kind review, Elizabeth! So happy you enjoyed your stay. Hope you can visit again soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gayle S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway in the mountains!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in A Writer’s Cottage outside Arroyo Seco. Location was perfect for us, accessible to what we wanted and needed, but far enough away to feel the solitude! The casita was impeccable, clean and furnished with everything we needed. And the special boost was the friendly greeting of Ollie and Milo, our special cat hosts! Thanks for a perfect birthday celebration getaway! We would love to return when everything is blooming!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Mar 2023
Thank you for choosing us among the many choices here! We are so glad you enjoyed your stay and welcome you back when the acres and acres wild Iris bloom along with the 800 tulip bulbs!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kerry H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful sunny casita on beautiful property

We had a lovely stay at the "writer's casita" in Arroyo Seco. The host was excellent and responsive. The casita was very clean with lots of sunlight and is located above a garage next to the main house on a truly idyllic property. There are chairs set up on the porch so you can sit in peace and view the beautiful landscape and all of the animals owned by the host. The property is perfectly situated about a mile outside the village of Arroyo Seco which has several good restaurants and the famous "Taos Cow" ice cream/coffee/breakfast and lunch venue. We would definitely love to go back - thanks for hosting us!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Do yourself a favor and stay here

The property is as pictured and more. Beautiful setting and gracious hosts.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

About the host

Hosted by David Torres

Host profile image

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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