There’s A Tiny Town In New Mexico Completely Surrounded By Breathtaking Natural Beauty
New Mexican landscapes are associated with dramatic rock formations and vibrant colors. Although the bar for breathtaking scenery is set high, there is one place where the colors are a little deeper and the natural beauty halts even the most jaded travelers in their tracks. Offering a natural amphitheater, a lake, a lavender farm, and a unique history, the town of Abiquiu is one that you’ll want to visit.
Abiquiu is located in Northern New Mexico, between Santa Fe and Chama, next to the Rio Chama.
Abiquiu was on the Old Spanish Trail, a trade route that once connected Santa Fe to Los Angeles. Despite its diminutive size, the town has long been a trading hub.
In fact, the general store, Bode’s, used to be a stagecoach stop.
Now it’s a place to tuck into a breakfast burrito or juicy green chile cheeseburger.
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, you have plenty of activities to choose from here. Abiquiu Lake – technically a reservoir – is a scenic spot for a dip.
Aside from the warm waters, one of the best reasons to visit Abiquiu Lake is for the views. Check out the vivid rocks that surround the lake, and the vista of Pedernal from the dam.
This mesa may look familiar because Georgia O’Keeffe included it in her paintings.
Nearby you’ll also find Echo Amphitheater, a natural amphitheater just off the side of the road in the Carson National Forest, where you can entertain yourself by testing its echo effect. For more info.
That’s a farm fragrance you’ll actually want to inhale!
To really travel off the beaten path, drive out to Monastery of Christ in the Desert, where you’ll discover a chapel that seems to grow out of the red rocks. For more info.
In terms of accommodations, camping is available at the lake or try the Abiquiu Inn (21120 Highway 84). It’s situated on pretty grounds and the on-site café is both delicious and convenient.
