Casita del "Soul"
Casita del "Soul"
Submitted: April 17, 2011
Stayed: March 2011
April 17, 2011
My husband and I spent March 2011 in the casita--our first winter away in retirement. We can't say enough about either our landlords--the friendly and accommodating Ken and Sally--or their exceptional rental property. We loved our location right on the Rio Grande (terrific birdwatching!), but still only an enjoyable stroll away from TorC's parks, library, post office, good used book store, well-stocked grocery and fun/funky shops and restaurants. The casita's unobstructed and intimate view of Turtleback Mountain was breathtaking, especially at sunset and dawn, and we didn't have to leave bed to drink it in each morning, as the bedroom's entryway looks across the dining room to the casita's magnificent window wall overlooking the river and the mountain. The casita itself is charmingly furnished with interesting antiques and nice art, and the kitchen is adequately equipped even for people like us who prefer cooking in to dining out. Similar care has gone into the artful landscaping of native and exotic plants. We especially appreciated the privacy fence that surrounds the casita and the larger casa. It makes Ken and Sally's compound such a serene retreat. Another great touch: the retractable awning over the sandstone patio. Even in the brightest sunlight we were able to use this delightful outdoor space. And who wouldn't adore having their OWN hot mineral springs hot tub? Even our water-loving golden retriever Maddy took a dip in it once or twice (just don't tell Ken and Sally! Their acceptance of pets is such a plus!). Within a few days of our arrival in TorC, we had decided to return to Ken and Sally's compound in winter 2012--that's how fabulous our experience was. TorC is centrally located in SE NM, facilitating day trips to view the spectacular scenery, historic mining and railroad towns and fabulous state parks nearby. Since the inimitable Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Reserve is only an hour-long hop away, we were able to visit it twice! More great birdwatching! But mostly we were content to hang out at our beautiful casita, reading, napping, soaking, daydreaming, taking Maddy for walks or a game of ball in Ralph Edwards Park, preparing recipes from our Mexican and Southweat cookbooks that seldom leave the shelves at home. We came home to Cleveland restored, in body and soul, and can't wait for next March to roll around.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Pet-friendly,
Girls Getaway,
Tourists without a Car,
Sightseeing,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 4/4
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
No