A change of scene helps recharge our batteries. Albuquerque – otherwise known as the gritty backdrop to Breaking Bad – may not be the first place that springs to mind when planning a health-focused, indulgent weekend escape. But, for Santa Feans, like myself, a 60-mile jaunt down I25 can be a preferable alternative to early morning flights, security lines, and being squeezed into an over-priced airplane “cheap seat” cutting into a 48-hour repose.
Hotel Andaluz, in the heart of downtown, reflects New Mexican culture with its Spanish overtones. The hotel turns 75 years old, this year, and was first built by Conrad Hilton himself. Upon entering, archways reveal private cabana-style alcoves lining the lobby wall. Ideal for business meetings or drinks with friends, each seats about 6-8 comfortably, and has its own theme, ranging from dark and romantic to bright and cheery. The lobby also boasts a large, bubbling stone fountain, and comfortable sitting areas, which transform what could be a cavernous entranceway into an inviting sanctuary.
Upon my first evening arrival, I took in the sunset from Ibiza bar’s rooftop patio with a glass of wine and an eggplant tapa drizzled with honey, manchego cheese and dotted with capers. This imaginative dish is from acclaimed Chef James Campbell Caruso, who has branched out from his popular Santa Fe restaurants La Boca and Taberna to take the helm at Mas Tapas Y Vino, the hotel’s restaurant. Friendly servers also offer blankets to keep guests cozy while enjoying the starry sky.
Early the next morning, after a breakfast of quinoa oatmeal and local honey, I was joined by a friend for the nearly 10-mile challenge of La Luz trail all the way up Sandia Peak. The walk starts off deceptively easy, with a multitude of photo opps of native wildflowers and blooming cacti during a gentle ascent… until about mile 7. Those next two miles become quite challenging with a steeper uphill climb over boulders from some sort of previous mountain slide. Thank goodness, the final mile is a breeze, allowing people to enjoy magnificent views all the way to Mount Taylor (near Grants) from the summit. After nearly 5 hours, I was glad to reach the loading station for the $12 tram ride down! Once we teetered to the bottom of the mountain, hundreds of feet above the arroyos, it was time for a light, late lunch.
We drove to Zacatecas in the Nob Hill area. Another Santa Fe star chef, Mark Kiffin of the high-end Compound Restaurant on Canyon Road, opened this casual taco and tequila haven about 2 years ago. While slightly on the pricey side for budget-driven students in the UNM neighborhood, the Fish Tacos were excellent, and frankly, one plate was enough for us to share.
Upon return to the hotel, we were provided passes to the gym across the street, as the hotel doesn’t have a spa on premises. A jaunt through the steam room, hot tub and swim in the heated pool brought relief and a gentle stretch to slightly sore muscles, and refreshed us for dinner. Soon, we were applying make up and putting on our dresses for a feast from the kitchen of Chef Caruso.
Unsurprisingly, Mas continues Caruso’s love affair with Spain, which is fine with me. Having lived 3 ½ years near Barcelona, I’m an undying fan of the food, culture, wine and anyone who is equally passionate about it. Dinner began with steamed clams in fino sherry & fennel seed broth, and grilled salmon-wrapped asparagus. We ordered a gorgeous, bold Spanish wine paired with well-earned Filet Mignon steaks. I’m not much of a meat eater, however when I do indulge, its medium rare, and this one was perfect. We shared the flourless walnut cake with brandied apples and sea salt caramel for dessert. After the long day, a great meal and the last drops of wine, it was time to crash.
Before going back to Santa Fe the next day, we squeezed in a yoga class at the gym then hit Buffalo Exchange resale clothing store on Central (always funky fashion scores). I considered visiting the Bio Park or sticking around for a live music show at the Kimo or El Rey theaters but, frankly, my staycation had exhausted me in the best of ways. Nature, food, exercise, indulgence and a change of pace for a couple of days left me both refreshed and ready to go home. In short, everything a weekend away should be.
SOURCE: The Liquid Muse – Read entire story here.