ALSO AVAILABLE: January 2-March 2. Previously a painting studio, our adobe casita is a peaceful sanctuary full of light and Southwestern character. There are many authentic details from the Mexican tile work to the authentic kiva (fireplace). Sip your morning coffee with mountain views, overlooking the swimming pool and gardens with birds chirping as the only sounds (including our chickens).

Our home is terraced above the casita but you should feel completely private as the lower grounds are all yours. After creating a painting studio attached to our main house on the street level we decided to make our casita a comfy guest house for our family and friends. They unanimously share the experience of feeling rested and suspended from their normal lives within our nurturing environment.

Cerrillos was once a bustling turquoise mining town with hotels and saloons. Today, it is a village for many creatives and for those who are inspired by its charm. It is common to see painters set up with their easels painting the many historic details found here. There are many celebrations from art in the park to burro races starting in May. You can walk two blocks for a beer and elk burger at The Blackbird Saloon. Right around the corner is the famous Trading Post where you can purchase turquoise from the local mine with a museum of many found objects from the mining era. Los Cerrillos means "little hills," and there is a 1700 acre state park where you can hike the trails and view the old mines along the way with gorgeous panoramic views. The state park office is on Main street in the center of town.

Only three miles to the south is the larger town of Madrid where the old historic homes have been transformed into shops, galleries, restaurants, and the famous Mine Shaft Tavern (the oldest continually run tavern in Santa Fe county). They have many holiday celebrations including the famous Christmas parade and light displays. From here, on HWY 14 there is a four mile stretch north toward Santa Fe (only 20 minutes away) where there are rock formations and a beautiful sculpture garden of Box Studios.

About This Lister

We are a very creative family. My husband is a painter, I am a writer, and our adult daughter is a singer/songwriter musician. Our home inspires us and is our oasis. We love the arts and the many cultures that make up our world. I love to cook from my Italian roots and enjoy sharing with our friends.