Ruidoso

"This charming strawbale home is the perfect place, summer or winter. Close to the hiking trails off the ski valley road and within walking distance of Taos Cow, we got our exercise in the morning and then walked to Taos Cow in Arroyo Seco in the afternoons when we weren't bicycling around Valdez. The caretaker lives on the property, and we contacted him to change a smoke-detector battery in the second-floor ceiling (ladder required). He responded within minutes. He is familiar with all the trails and is happy to share his enthusiasm for the area. While we were there we looked for mushrooms but we will have to return next year! The house is "green," and we were happy to recycle. The design of the home is the most interesting we have seen in strawbale construction. Not only is there a half bath on the second story, but there are nichos and other thoughtful details throughout the home. The owner has an eclectic mix of art and weavings that blend flawlessly with the riot of colors outside in purple coneflower, Russian sage, and various sunflowers. We have rented 8 vrbo properties in the past two years, and this is the best for cleanliness, views, architecture, and location. You won't go wrong in renting this property for whatever activities you enjoy. A new plus is that it's close to a new restaurant, Common Fire, on the north side of Taos. We ate there 6 times during our month-long stay and enjoyed it like we had never been before every time. Sit close to the oven, or horno."

"Casita was clean, and well appointed. Close to historic square, easy walking distance. Everything needed was supplied ."