We arrived back home in Texas on Tuesday, but my thoughts and heart still feel connected to Taos!
Re-entry, as I like to call it, takes at least a week! Our summer exploring New Mexico was refreshing and included a healthy dose of adventure. It felt like we were away from home for a while, but at the same time, the days seemed to fly by! I posted regularly on social media, but we were so busy having fun I didn’t have much time to sit and write posts about our experiences. I’ll be working on those in the days ahead to share with you! And, I’ll be recapping my Up and Over 10K experience, too…
Staying at The Blake over race weekend was a highlight and the perfect ending to our summer stay in Taos! It was such a treat because it cut down on driving and allowed us to maximize our time! The drive to Taos Ski Valley is approximately 30 minutes from Taos. We arrived on Friday evening and after a deep, restful sleep I woke up ready to run the race the next morning! The beds are so comfortable!
The Blake is “an 80 room guesthouse true to the soulful nature of Taos, and shaped by the cultural experiences of Northern New Mexico. The hotel’s unique architecture, design, artwork, service, and cuisine all spring from the woven texture of the resident European, Hispanic, and Native North American cultures that meet in Taos.”
The Blake opened this spring and is a beautiful centerpiece in the Taos Ski Valley base area redevelopment. The hotel features ski in/ski out access during the winter season, sophisticated guest rooms, and stunning views year-round! Ryan and I both grew up skiing Taos, so for us it’s particularly exciting to watch the improvements and renovation occur. We’ve been following the progress online to learn more about the plans for the future of Taos Ski Valley. It is and always will be a special place for our family!
This property is a distinctive fixture in the heart of Taos Ski Valley, a homage to founder Ernie Blake and his family! You’ll feel at home at The Blake with it’s elegant, yet comfortably rustic vibe. Walking through The Blake is much like browsing a museum of the history of Taos Ski Valley! I learned quite a bit more during our stay, and left feeling an even stronger connection to it when we left. There’s a sense of belonging you begin to experience when you learn the story and heritage of the area!
Through vintage photos and ski memorabilia, the hotel tells the story of the early years of the ski area up through the present. We enjoyed viewing these displays throughout the property. In addition, the art collection is incredible! It’s clearly inspired by the rich history and culture of New Mexico. From the moment you enter the lobby, you’re surrounded by art and artifacts from the Taos Society of Artists and Taos Pueblo Native Artists. Browsing this collection is time well spent!
The service we experienced during our stay was top notch! There was attention to detail in every aspect of the experience. Our room was lovely, and featured a deck with mountain views…the perfect spot for sipping coffee in the morning! We especially loved the delicious, complimentary full breakfast and coffee/tea in the mornings, restaurant and bar (192), and the Hausmeisters who helped us with anything we needed during our stay (The Blake’s concierge). We also utilized the refillable water bottles provided in our room and filtered water stations throughout the hotel. At this elevation, you need to stay hydrated, especially when you’re active!
Outfit Details
Athleta High Moon Sports Bra (so comfy, and now 50% off!) /Athleta With Ease Tank (also love the similar Power Up Tank) / Athleta Aura Sonar Capris (available in three other colors, great fit!) / New Balance Vazee Agility v2 Trainers (all items c/o Athleta and New Balance)
In Monday’s post, I’ll be highlighting my experience at The Spa and Wellness Center at The Blake. This part of the hotel is where I spent a generous amount of time during our stay, and I can’t wait to share it with you. I’ll be including a special offer…so don’t miss it!
Images (unless otherwise noted): Fleur De Lis Arts Photography
Thanks again to Taos Ski Valley and The Blake for this amazing weekend get-away! Looking forward to our next visit, when it’s covered in snow!
Our weekend stay was sponsored by The Blake…all opinions expressed here are my own.
