As soon as you drive up to Summit Sanctuary, you’ll see how appropriate its name is. Located among the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range in a gated community, the three-bedroom retreat looks out over pine-laden terrain toward the mountains. Seemingly secluded, it offers a wealth of privacy and serenity, making it a true sanctuary from the everyday. But in reality, it is far from remote; downtown Santa Fe is less than a half-hour away.

The house was designed to take advantage of the glorious vistas. The wraparound deck offers panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo and Ortiz Mountains, as do the numerous picture windows throughout. While the deck and the screened-in porch allow for the whole group to gather together to watch the sunset bathe the mountains in a rosy glow, there are also balconies where you can retreat for private time.

Wood-planked beamed ceilings, adobe-style walls, and a quiet earthy palette complement the stunning scenery and add to the restful ambience. With its wood-burning stove and luxe leather seating, the living room is where you’ll want to warm up after a day of skiing or snowshoeing. Next to the living room is the great room, where you’ll find a large flat-screen TV with satellite channels and the formal dining area, with a table that seats six with ease.


Between the dining area and the breakfast room, where four people can enjoy an early breakfast while admiring the sunrise, is Summit Sanctuary’s kitchen. Whether you enjoy cooking or not, you’ll be impressed by the topnotch stainless-steel appliances, the bounty of counter space, the bevy of cookware and tableware, and the generous elbow room. Add to that the flagstone floor, the tile and stone walls, and the glorious view, and you might find yourself wanting to cook three multicourse meals a day.

Summit Sanctuary’s primary suite is reason enough to want to stay here. Larger than many apartments and with a wall of windows, it boasts a king-size bed, a fireplace, a large flat-screen TV, and a separate sitting room. Should you have to work during your stay, you can set up your computer at the sitting room desk and take advantage of the home’s free WiFi. The only drawback: The awe-inspiring mountain views might prove too distracting. The primary suite has its own bathroom as well, with both a lavish soaking tub and a walk-in shower.

The second bedroom also has a king-size bed and a private bathroom, making Summit Sanctuary as well suited for two couples as it is for a family. A third bedroom features a queen-size bed, and there’s a third full bathroom as well. A large open space, which can serve as a playroom, also has a pair of twin beds, enabling Summit Sanctuary to sleep as many as eight people.

If hiking is a priority, you’ll be glad to know that you don’t have to jump in the car before you can hit the trails; you simply must walk outside the door. Should you wish to go farther afield, Atalaya Mountain, Shaggy Peak, and Pecos National Historic Park are within a half-hour drive. So are the landmark Santa Fe Plaza, the trendy Railyard, the galleries of Canyon Road, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and much more.

And if you’re visiting in winter, a 4x4 vehicle is required to access the property.

Your stay at Summit Sanctuary will be one you’ll long remember. In fact, once you’re here you might never want to leave. Experience the exceptional beauty and tranquility for yourself; make your reservation today.