For larger gatherings, Ponderosa + Bristlecone at A Bella Vista Valdez Lodge sleeps 16. Set among Kit Carson National Forest, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Valdez Canyon, and the Rio Hondo, you're minutes from Taos Ski Valley, Taos Pueblo, Arroyo Seco, and Taos. Enjoy privacy, breathtaking views, fine dining, local art, shopping, and outdoor adventures. For added convenience, inquire about our concierge service, including homemade breakfasts and dinners.
Guests should feel free to reach out to the Host and On-Site Manager with any questions or for assistance. Ask about our concierge service.
Located in Taos County, Valdez is a peaceful community nestled at the entrance to Taos Ski Valley, offering stunning views of the mountains, canyons, and high desert. The area provides a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, cycling, fishing, birdwatching, backpacking, horseback riding, camping, snowboarding, downhill skiing, hot springs soaking, and white-water rafting. Hosts are happy to share recommendations for local hidden gems.
•. Access to the residences is private.
• Both residences are equipped with keypad locks as well as backup keys.
• For enhanced security, a unique keypad code is provided for each residence, valid throughout the stay.
• Free parking is available for a total of four cars: one in front of each residence and additional parking in the well-marked Lodge parking lot.
Ponderosa and Bristlecone are mirror-image private homes, sun-drenched, expansive, and warmly appointed. Each home boasts 360º mountain and canyon views, tall ceilings with corbels and latillas, brick entryways, and radiant-heated tile floors. Oversized windows with sliding doors, a sky-lit staircase, and custom woodwork and cabinetry throughout enhance the homes’ unique character.
Both homes feature dual living rooms, a propane kiva fireplace on each floor, a chef’s kitchen with European-style appliances, and a full-size washer and dryer. The decor includes original art and regional artifacts, adding a personal touch. Outside, a spacious cedar deck with a gas grill and seating extends off the main living room, perfect for enjoying the views.
The second floor of each home features a grand master bedroom with a king bed, a kitchenette, and seating for coffee or après-ski moments. An enclosed patio with a wood-burning chiminea and bench seating provides a cozy retreat, while the sandstone-tiled full bathroom includes a tub. A second spacious bedroom, outfitted with two queen beds, is located just down the hall.
Each home offers free parking for two vehicles (four total) and includes identical amenities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Private vehicles are required, 4-Wheel/All-Wheel drive strongly recommended, especially in the winter months when it may be essential. Shuttle and bus services are available for transport to Taos Ski Valley, tours and airport access. The nearest train station is in Raton, NM, and Taos has an airport that accommodates small prop and jet aircraft. The closest international airports are in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, NM, as well as Denver, CO.
• 4-Wheel Drive / All-Wheel Drive vehicles are best to access the property via the dirt road, especially during the winter months. Snow tires are also recommended.
•. Cell phone service is poor to non-existent on the property and will likely disappear entirely as you approach the residences. High-speed internet is available and will support cell coverage for calls, texting, and messaging apps.
•. To avoid issues with lost GPS signals during your approach and to ensure smooth check-in, please make sure to download your directions, personal door code, and Wi-Fi information offline before arriving.
•. There is no air conditioning, which is generally unnecessary in this area. Portable box fans are provided at the property if needed.
