A RELAXING WEEKEND IN THE LAND OF ENCHANTMENT - NEW MEXICO

Two days of quiet moments at Ten Thousand Waves.

This trip to New Mexico actually started as a work visit on Friday, but instead of flying back right away, I decided to stay through the weekend. I didn’t plan a packed itinerary this time, so no rushing between attractions, no strict schedule. I just wanted to slow down, relax, explore a little, and enjoy the calm atmosphere New Mexico naturally offers. Sometimes the best trips aren’t about doing everything, they’re about doing just enough to feel refreshed.

After finishing my work in Albuquerque, I stopped by "The Artichoke Cafe" for dinner before heading to Ten Thousand Waves. I ordered a drink and a pasta dish, simple but really delicious, and honestly, the perfect way to wind down before the quiet weekend ahead.

Day 1 Itinerary

Ten Thousand Waves Bathing & Spa

Vista Grande Overlook Observation Site

Ten Thousand Waves Dinner

Day 2 Itinerary

Santa Fe Plaza

Ten Thousand Waves Bathing

Day 1: Relaxation Highlights

Ten Thousand Waves - Map

Ten Thousand Waves is a Japanese-style spa and lodging retreat tucked into the hills outside Santa Fe. The property features natural-wood architecture, outdoor soaking tubs, and peaceful mountain surroundings. It feels secluded and quiet, perfect if you’re looking to slow down.

Interesting things about this place:

• The resort was founded in the 1980s by two Santa Fe residents inspired by Japanese hot spring culture.

• The name “Ten Thousand Waves” comes from a Japanese phrase referring to countless ripples of water in a hot spring.

• The property sits at about 7,000 feet in elevation, giving it cooler mountain weather and fresh air.

• Many of the soaking tubs are outdoor baths surrounded by trees, making it feel very secluded.

• Some rooms include private outdoor hot tubs, inspired by traditional Japanese ryokan lodging.

They are known for their onsen-style bathing experience, which includes:

• Communal outdoor soaking pools

• Cold plunge pools

• Sauna

• Private soaking tubs

• Massage and facial spa services

I slept in until around 11 AM. Breakfast had already been delivered outside my door earlier, so I grabbed it and took my time easing into the day. Since the weather was cool and pleasant (thankfully not too sunny), I put on my swimsuit and headed up the hill to the outdoor soaking baths. The climb itself made me realize the elevation here is no joke; I was definitely breathing heavier than usual.

Before settling in, I checked with the front desk about spa availability and booked a facial for later in the day. That gave me plenty of time to enjoy the baths. I spent about an hour and a half rotating between the warm open-air pools, the cold plunge, and the sauna. It was an incredibly calming, quiet atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and everyone there seemed focused on relaxing rather than socializing.

By the end, my body felt completely relaxed, almost sleepy. After drying off and changing, I went for my facial appointment. It was a 60-minute session, decent overall, though I personally felt my skin a bit dry afterward.

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Later in the afternoon, I drove up to Vista Grande Overlook Observation Site. It was peaceful, barely anyone around. I took a few photos, sat on a bench, and just enjoyed the mountain air for a bit before heading back.