Surrounded by beauty: Abiquiu

Abiquiu is located north west of Santa Fe, NM.

While we were watching Europe and the East coast dealing with 'El Nino' and an unusual amount of snow and storms, New Mexico was waiting for more snow to fully enjoy our ski resorts!

Meanwhile this gave us the opportunity to share a ride with my friends Fred and Sol in a stunning and inspiring landscape.

We went horseback riding last week in Georgia O'Keeffe country. Breathtaking views, petroglyphs, and nice company. Abiquiu is an area that I especially like and where you can easily rejuvenate.

New Mexico is said to be “the land of enchantment”, and it takes on all its meaning when you are in Abiquiu. This land and the surrounding area are absolutely gorgeous, magical! You feel the sacred of Mother Earth.

The shape of the mesa, the hills, and the colors, everything is inspiring.
It inspired many painters; Georgia O’Keeffe is the most well known. In fact, it is difficult not to talk about Georgia O’Keeffe when talking about Abiquiu and vice versa.

O'Keeffe was fond of this landscape and painted it many times, especially ‘the Cerro Pedernal’. She even wrote to her friend that: ”God told her that if she painted it enough, he would give it to her” – Her ashes were scattered on its top.

For those who do not know Georgia O’Keeffe well, do not miss the museum dedicated to her in Santa Fe. She is a major American artist, and this museum pays her a beautiful tribute.

Abiquiu includes a reservoir that creates a lake and enhances the view of the beautiful surroundings. It became a recreation area where many come to enjoy themselves during the warm months of summer.

During winter, horseback riding in the area is extremely enjoyable. It feels like you are blending with nature, being one with the horse among such beauty. Whether you are an artist or not, you can’t help but be inspired.

There are many hikes in the Abiquiu area, short or long and strenuous, there is something for everyone. You can also spend a few days there just relaxing and reconnecting with this sacred nature.

Ghost Ranch is a famous retreat and educational center where you can stay. This site was once a hiding place for two men who stole horses. To be sure nobody would come there, they spread the word that ghosts haunted this place. The name stuck!