Hotel Snapshot
Set against the striking backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Hotel Willa is a design-forward escape that embodies the creative spirit of Taos, New Mexico. Following a six-year renovation, the adobe-style property (formerly the Indian Hills Inn) has been reimagined as a stylish hideaway where midcentury bones meet modern minimalism.
Ideally situated between Taos Plaza and Taos Ski Valley, Hotel Willa serves as both a creative hub and a basecamp for adventure. Whether you’re sipping mezcal by the fire pit or trading stories with locals at the always-buzzing bar, this boutique stay channels the effortless cool and authenticity that define this storied town today.
Design & Character
Originally built in the 1960s and thoughtfully renovated by Venice, California–based design firm, Electric Bowery, this sophisticated retreat preserves its Southwestern soul while embracing a contemporary sensibility. An earthy palette of terracotta, camel, and blush punctuated by touches of black, blue, and green draws inspiration from the surrounding desert landscape. Warm woods and exposed beams ground light-filled, open spaces. Throughout the lobby and its inviting rooms, art and objects from local makers celebrate the hotel’s strong ties to the Taos community.
The Rooms
Every detail—whether it’s locally crafted pottery perched on a shelf or the vintage-style radio on the nightstand—in the hotel’s 50 well-appointed guest rooms feels intentional, creating a sense of home without crowding the space. Brown leather headboards contrast beautifully with crisp Parachute linens and plush down comforters that ward off the desert chill. Walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads are stocked with Aesop products to wash away the day. And select suites feature fireplaces, while others offer private terraces.
For families or groups, the Adobe House provides a more private stay. This on-property residence includes two suites, which are bookable separately or together. The home is equipped with a full kitchen, three king beds, three bathrooms, two living areas, and an enclosed patio complete with a fire pit and hammocks—ideal for gatherings under the star-filled sky.
The Food & Drink Situation
The hotel’s restaurant, Juliette, is helmed by James Beard Award–nominated chef Johnny Ortiz-Concha and his partner, Maida Branch. The menu honors generational traditions and highlights seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and ranches. Most dishes are meant to be shared, and in true family fashion, the bread on the table comes from Ortiz-Concha’s sister, Allysa Ortiz. The adjacent bar offers a curated selection of eye-catching cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic refreshments—all perfect for enjoying around the crackling fireplace or poolside. Stop by Juliette for a morning latte (ask for the New Mexico pecan milk), lunch (the tomato sandwich is a must), dinner (don’t miss the lima beans), or Sunday brunch (the Dutch pancake is divine).
The Amenities
Start your day with a dose of contrast therapy by alternating between the cold plunge and the cedar sauna, or break a sweat on the Peloton bike in the hotel’s gym. Afterward, unwind in the jacuzzi, take a refreshing dip in the heated pool, or drift away in the hammock beneath the towering willow tree in the courtyard.
For a taste of Taos’s thriving art scene, you don’t have to venture far. The property hosts an artist-in-residence program and features a 2,000-square-foot gallery curated by The Paseo Project, a local nonprofit dedicated to bringing art and art education to the community.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
Conveniently located at the gateway to Taos’ historic downtown district, Hotel Willa sits within walking distance of Taos Plaza, where you’ll find an array of boutiques offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to local art. Hunt for vintage treasures at Reneux Consignment, indulge your sweet tooth at Chokola, and pick up eclectic finds at Everywhere Taos. If the pottery used to plate the dishes at Juliette caught your eye, make the short drive to nearby Arroyo Seco to visit ceramicist Logan Wannamaker’s studio.
For those drawn to culture, tour Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with local guide and tribe member Kevin Whitefeather. Explore Taos’s artistic legacy at the Couse-Sharp Historic Site and the Taos Art Museum at Fechin House, or take in the town’s stunning scenery aboard an e-bike with Heritage Inspirations.
Fast Facts
Location: Taos, New Mexico
Vibe: Laid-back luxury with plenty of high-desert charm
Rating: Four-star
Room Count: 50
Pricing: From $225 per night
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The cozy rooms provide the perfect retreat after a day of exploring, while the lively bar draws an eclectic mix of locals eager to share their insider tips for experiencing Taos
Dining: Juliette serves lunch and dinner, as well as Sunday brunch
Amenities: Heated pool, jacuzzi, cedar sauna, cold plunge, and gym
Nearby Attractions: Taos Pueblo, Taos Plaza, Couse-Sharp Historic Site
Airport: Approximately 20 minutes to Taos Regional Airport (direct flights to SKX are available from Austin, Burbank, Carlsbad, and Dallas via JSX), 1.5 hours to Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF), and 2.5 hours to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
Hotels Above Par may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if products are purchased through our links, at no cost to you.
