Although few things are truly unique in this world anymore, there's something very different about El Monte Sagrado. You feel it immediately. It has a spirit that's hard to define and do it justice. Sure the grounds are gorgeous, woven with gurgling streams and dotted with renovated casitas. Sure the staff pampers from the moment they open your car door at the porte cochere. Sure the rooms are globally influenced and feel oh-so-exotic (without an ounce of hokiness). Sure the exceptional spa

Although few things are truly unique in this world anymore, there's something very different about El Monte Sagrado. You feel it immediately. It has a spirit that's hard to define and do it justice. Sure the grounds are gorgeous, woven with gurgling streams and dotted with renovated casitas. Sure the staff pampers from the moment they open your car door at the porte cochere. Sure the rooms are globally influenced and feel oh-so-exotic (without an ounce of hokiness). Sure the exceptional spa offers alternative treatments that reflect northern New Mexico's independent spirit. And sure the tranquil dining room features outstanding regional and seasonal cuisine. But it's something else.

It's the sum total of these top-notch elements paired with a desire by the management to create a space for utter relaxation that sets El Monte Sagrado apart from other romantic and luxury resorts. Oh, and then there's the backdrop of the 13,000-foot-high Sangre de Cristo Mountains, almost within reach, to top it all off. No wonder guests immediately drop into a state of grace and peace on the way to their rooms.

The abundant art and enchanting architecture merge local Native American culture with global influences. Ask for details as you tour the property; chances are there is a meaningful story about something catching your eye. No stone has been left unturned in this vision. At the Anaconda bar (so named because the snake lives in and near water, and this resort is all about water), the gold-plated scales (aka, ceramic tiles) come from Italy. The trim around doorways and nichos is made from sustainable mahogany. The resort logo, "E-M", was inspired by the Chinese seal meaning longevity.

Suites and casitas, which can induce a strong cocooning instinct, roam world styles and cultures in their aesthetic flair, while the less expensive Taos Mountain Rooms have a decidedly Western flair without coming across too heavy-handed. Many suites and casitas have enclosed patios and courtyards with hot tubs (and robes); most have gas kiva fireplaces to warm the spirit. From hand-painted walls to one-of-a-kind interior designs, each casita really is a work of art. Choose according to your adventuring spirit: Bali or Tibet, Morocco or Argentina.

Pampering services at this boutique property extend to a knowledgeable concierge, nightly turndown, and morning newspaper. If the grounds weren't so worthy of exploration, you might stay in your private casita all day. But do head out to the "aqua area," with a wading pool, plunge pool, and hot tub...

Kim Grant has been writing about the best places to stay in North America since the day after graduating college in 1984. Since then she has written over 35 guidebooks and for countless websites and print publications. She is also the editorial director of a forthcoming website on the best places to stay and the travel acquisitions editor for Countryman Press.