When we first pulled up to the Blackstone Lodge, my boyfriend looked at the facade of the building and said "if we don't like it, we can leave right?" When I said, "no, it's already paid for," he got a really worried look on his face. But that look changed dramatically when we saw our room (The Jetsons!), and the lovely little courtyard with the palm tree, and the oh-so-divine Wet Room.

Wow.... After 2 perfect-sleep nights, we can officially say we're in love with this place. There's much to appreciate: the gigantic in-room hot springs tub (big enough for two of us to free-float in the water, and we're both tall), the super comfortable king bed and high-quality linens (pillows comfy too), the generous floor space and suite layout, the kooky but tasteful decor, giant flat screen HD TV, wifi, we even noticed that much thought had been put into the lighting options in the room.

Oh, and did I mention that the staff was super friendly and helpful? The only thing that could have been improved upon was the soundproofing (you can hear people clearly if they're in the courtyard), but since this is an adults-only place, and they encourage quiet, it really wasn't a problem. Incredible value for the money. Wonderful experience.

NOTE FROM ROB AND RALPH: Much of the soul-searching over our decision to renovate Blackstone Hotsprings happened at Harry's Roadhouse in Santa Fe. That place is so cool they don't even need a website! It has come full circle with Michael and Kathleen having been our guests now after the renovation, and they left this note for us:

"We had a great time at your lovely lodge! It was just what the doctor ordered for rest and relaxation. The both of you have obviously worked so hard to bring this labor of love to reality. What a beautiful job you did. We can't wait to come back. Please drop by Harry's when your in the neighborhood we'd love to buy you a margarita. Take care! Love you - Kathleen and Michael"

"First time to New Mexico -- 2000+ miles or "road trip" in 10 days (from Chama to Taos, Roswell to Carlsbad and El Paso).

Then we stumbled onto Blackstone and are both so relaxed after the healing hot mineral waters, that we feel like we would like to start our trip all over again and just stay here!

Thank you again for a great way to end our trip."

"Thank you so much for such a wonderful 2 nights.

We have come from Maine to California and have never felt this welcomed. You have really found your calling, and you make it look so easy. Your hospitality is as welcoming as 5 star hotels. Very comfortable. We love every funky thing!

We will be back."

Linda and Sharon
Albuquerque

"We've really enjoyed our time here, and you've done a wonderful remodeling job!

The dog paws in the cement are precious!

Next time we will book farther in advance so we can have more days. Having the mineral tub in our room was great!"

"The best hidden gem in the west.

We escaped snow, and had the best time relaxing and soaking.

Thank you!"