Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers

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Property grounds
A wooden deck with a sofa and chairs, a grill, and a door leading to the interior.
Room
Exterior
Living area

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
Sleeps 52 bedrooms3 beds

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Deck or patio
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Arcade/game room

Explore the area

View map
El Rito, NM
  • Place, The O'Keeffe: Welcome Center
    ‪50 min drive‬
  • Place, Plaza Blanca
    ‪57 min drive‬
  • Place, Dar Al Islam
    ‪59 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Living Room

1 Double Futon

Sunset - Main Room

1 Queen Bed

The Twins

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Upstairs Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers

Nestled in peace & serenity, this charming guesthouse offers privacy and comfort in an idyllic forest setting. Adventure is just steps away! From the property’s summit, pass through the Lord of the Rings-inspired gate to explore the Carson National Forest. The fresh forest breeze flows through the house’s open windows, offering tranquil mornings with breathtaking sunrise views. Gather with loved ones by the firepit in the evenings, and marvel at the star-filled skies on clear nights.
Near the El Rito Campground in the Carson National Forest, a short 10-minute drive to Plaza Blanca (Dar al Islam) 20-minute drive to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Abiquiu; or 20-minute drive to Ojo Caliente Hot Springs & Spa, 30-minute drive to Espanola or an hour drive to Santa Fe.
This property accommodates up to four adult guests. Children are welcome aged 13 and older. Please note the property is not wheelchair accessible - there are steps, stairs and multiple levels.
The upper level features a welcoming rustic bohemian living room, hardwood floors, original artwork, vintage woodburning stove, fold out couch & loveseat and a treasure chest coffee table. Both bedrooms are adjacent to one another and are connected, separated by a door. The main bedroom has a Queen-sized bed, nightstand, ceiling fan and chair; the smaller room has two twin-sized beds. A full-sized bathroom with shower stall and vanity. The spacious deck is tucked among the pinon trees, with two outside lounge couches, chairs and a small gas grill. The ambiance is truly unique.
The lower level boasts an oversized room with a large wooden dining room table full dining an art studio which is perfect for creative pursuits. Lots of fun board games, activities and some art supplies. A fully equipped kitchenette, with full pot coffee maker, electric hot water kettle, four burner cooktop, Air Fryer and a full-sized refrigerator with ice maker.

Hunting District 51 - The Carson National Forest in Northern New Mexico, including the El Rito Ranger District, encompasses Unit 51. ***Ample parking on property for ATV trailers, four wheelers and additional vehicles. *no campers or RVs without approval & additional fees.
***4 wheel Drive needed if there’s snow.
***Stairs up to the bedrooms may inhibit some guests. Please note before booking.

Attractions: continental divide, Carson National Forest, Plaza Blanca, Ghost Ranch, Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Spa & Restuarant, Abiquiu Lake, Canjilon Lakes, Georgia O'Keefe Home & Museum, Abiquiu Inn & Restuarant, Poshuouinge Ruins, Echo Ampitheater, Purple Adobe Lavender Farm, Stone Canyon Climbing Wall, Chama River.

El Rito is a town in New Mexico that has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. It was one of the first Spanish settlements in the Jicarilla Apache lands north of Santa Fe, being settled about 1807. The town is home to the San Juan Nepomuceno Catholic Church, which was built between 1827 and 1832. The El Rito Formation is a geologic formation in New Mexico dating to the Eocene epoch. “33 miles” to Ghost Ranch and “18 miles” to Ojo Caliente Spa


Harmony Hill | Where the Forest Inspires the Soul

Welcome to Harmony Hill

There are places you visit, and there are places that quietly become part of you.

Harmony Hill is one of those rare places.

Hidden on more than three private acres in the mountains of Northern New Mexico, with the Carson National Forest as your backyard, Harmony Hill was created for people seeking something increasingly difficult to find: silence, beauty, inspiration, and genuine connection with nature.

Whether you're escaping city life for a few days, searching for creative inspiration, planning a romantic getaway, or simply longing to wake up to bird songs, Harmony Hill invites you to slow down and experience the magic of the Southwest.

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A Story of Serendipity

Harmony Hill began with a simple feeling.

The moment our family discovered El Rito, we knew there was something extraordinary about this valley. What started as a search for a mountain home became the discovery of a hidden paradise tucked between forests, rivers, mesas, and endless skies.

Rather than changing the land, we chose to listen to it.

The property has gradually been shaped using permaculture principles—working alongside nature instead of against it—creating a peaceful sanctuary where wildlife, native plants, and people coexist in harmony.

Today, we are honored to share this special place with guests from around the world.

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Wake Up Inside the Forest

Every morning begins differently here.

The breeze moves gently through the pinon pines.

Hummingbirds race through the gardens.

Woodpeckers tap rhythmically in the distance.

Songbirds announce the sunrise while deer quietly wander through the property.

Step outside with your morning coffee and breathe deeply.

The air carries the scent of pine, juniper, sun-warmed earth, and the high desert after dawn—a fragrance unique to Northern New Mexico.

Your Backyard Is Carson National Forest

One of Harmony Hills' greatest treasures is that adventure begins the moment you walk outside.

No need to drive.

Simply leave the house and explore:

• Hike directly into Carson National Forest.

• Walk to the nearby river.

• Climb surrounding rock formations.

• Watch sunrise from the ridge behind the property.

• End your evening watching the sunset paint the valley below.

The views stretch for miles across the landscape, creating one of the most peaceful settings in Northern New Mexico.

---

Wildlife Everywhere

Harmony Hill is alive.

If you're patient, you'll likely encounter remarkable wildlife throughout your stay.

Guests frequently spot:

• Hundreds of hummingbirds throughout the warmer months.

• Golden eagles and hawks soaring overhead.

• Woodpeckers.

• Dozens of native bird species.

• Mule deer.

• Elk.

• Coyotes.

• Chipmunks.

• Skunks.

• Horses and cattle from neighboring ranches.

• Harmless native snakes.

For birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers, every day offers something new.


Created for Inspiration

Some places help you rest.

Harmony Hill helps you create.

Over the years our guests have:

• Written novels.

• Finished poetry collections.

• Painted landscapes.

• Practiced yoga at sunrise.

• Meditated in silence.

• Completed five-day silent retreats.

• Photographed wildlife.

• Studied local geology and minerals.

• Watched the Milky Way for hours.

• Reconnected with themselves.

There is a certain energy here that encourages focus, creativity, and calm.



Every Season Feels Like a Different World

+Winter

Snow transforms Harmony Hills into a peaceful mountain retreat.

Warm up beside the wood-burning fireplace after a day outdoors or gather around the outdoor fire pit (when seasonal fire restrictions allow).

+Spring

Wildflowers bloom across the property.

Birdsong fills the forest.

Butterflies, hummingbirds, and native pollinators return, bringing the landscape back to life.


+ Summer

Warm days invite long hikes, riverside afternoons, and evenings beneath spectacular sunsets.

The mountain air remains refreshing even after sunny afternoons.

+Autumn

Golden cottonwoods, brilliant aspens, and changing oak leaves turn the valley into one of New Mexico's most beautiful hidden landscapes.

+ Nights You'll Never Forget

Few places still experience truly dark skies.

Harmony Hills is one of them.

With almost no light pollution, the Milky Way stretches clearly across the sky.

Spend the evening identifying constellations, watching meteor showers, or simply enjoying the silence beneath millions of stars.

The moonlight alone is enough to transform the forest into something unforgettable.

+Nearby Adventures

Harmony Hills is perfectly located for exploring Northern New Mexico.

Within a short drive you'll find:

• Carson National Forest

• El Farolito Restaurant (a beloved local favorite)

• The Rio Chama

• Plaza Blanca

• Ghost Ranch

• Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs

• Abiquiu

• Scenic drives through the high desert

• Historic villages and art communities

• Outstanding rock climbing

• Hiking and mountain biking

• Fly fishing

• Hunting areas

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Perfect For

✓ Couples seeking a romantic escape

✓ Artists and writers

✓ Birdwatchers

✓ Stargazers

✓ Hikers and climbers

✓ Yoga and meditation retreats

✓ Nature photographers

✓ Small families

✓ Hunters looking for peaceful accommodations after long days outdoors




Harmony Hill is more than a place to stay—it's a place to remember. Whether you come to explore, create, reconnect, or simply breathe, you'll leave carrying a little of the forest with you.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
420 Friendly

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Thank you for your stay with us! No need to lock up - Safe travels!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2373472vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

El Rito

Located in El Rito, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Carson National Forest and Rio Chama reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Purple Adobe Lavender Farm and Girasol Gift Shop at Bode's. Fishing offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking, mountain climbing and mountain biking nearby.
Map
El Rito, NM

What's nearby

  • Purple Adobe Lavender Farm - 50 min drive - 34.5 km
  • The O'Keeffe: Welcome Center - 50 min drive - 36.0 km
  • Girasol Gift Shop at Bode's - 51 min drive - 37.1 km
  • Plaza Blanca - 57 min drive - 37.1 km
  • Dar Al Islam - 59 min drive - 37.9 km

Restaurants

  • ‪El Farolito - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers?

As of 11 August 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers on 22 August 2026 start from NZ$589, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Artist Retreat~Forest Getaway~Adventurers~Hunters~Writers~Nature Lovers located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Carson National Forest and within 20 miles (32 km) of Rio Chama and Poshuouinge Ruins. Purple Adobe Lavender Farm and The O'Keeffe: Welcome Center are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 86 out of 108 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 19 out of 108 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 108 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 108 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 108 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Emma K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a decent house with a wonderful deck and beautiful views! The layout and decor of the home are a bit wacky, but there's plenty of room for gathering and having fun. Bobbie was also incredibly kind and helpful as a host!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jill P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A charming eclectic private place to stay,inspire and get in touch with nature. Like the description states, supplies are limited, No microwave, but has an air fryer.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

antje H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The area and the house itself were wonderful. El Rito is very small but a nice starting point for wonderful day trips. If you don't feel like driving the house itself is on a wonderful property and a place of relaxation and creativity.Love to come back one day
Stayed 7 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 June 2026
It was lovely to have you ladies! Thanks for the socks. I love them! Hope to see you again someday :)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alex B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cabin! Had everything we needed. Would stay there again!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Joe L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay for couple or family

Perfect accommodation for a couple or a family with kids.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Robert E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice interesting place, great area peaceful, access to Carson National Forest
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jimmy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Property was in a perfect location for our trip we were needing quick access to the surrounding national Forest of New Mexico
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Melanie

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Comfortable beautiful safe pleasant get away had a pleasant weekend enjoyed our stay wish we could of stayed longer
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Greg B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was clean ,comfortable and just like described in the details. Easy access to forest and plenty of room for all of us. Owner is very nice and welcomed us to the property. Will stay here again for sure
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Diana R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute place

Very cute and cozy place
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Drew L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Place

Thank you for allowing my family to stay at your property. We had a great time and enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Samuel

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This is a wonderful place to stay. Eclectic and charming. A great place to get away or be creative. You can't be bored here. There are a lot of games, musical instruments and art supplies to play with. I would love to have an extended stay here to write or paint or just rest.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Skyler D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!

Great house, great host, right next to the Carson National Forest. We loved it!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

M D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful location with the perfect vibes for a creative retreat! Had a wonderful two-night stay away from the city heat, got inspired by the forest and all the lovely art, cooked a full meal in a spacious kitchen, and saw the full Milky Way on a cloudless night. Would 1000% stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ronald

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Host was personable and welcoming. Property was unique and very comfortable. We had a great stay
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alyce B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Eclectic digs

Exactly what we needed for a one night stay. Great location for river rafting groups. Owner very friendly and next door on the property.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dawna C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The charming guest house had everything we needed for our work trip. The kitchen was well equipped. The bed was nice and comfortable. The bathrooms were spotless. The proximity to a hiking trail was a nice bonus. The host was friendly, responsive, and accommodating.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cecilia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Bobbie was so friendly House was ckean and decorated very nice
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Niki A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My beau and I booked this retreat for our "alternative Thanksgiving" on the road. We appreciated the non-traditional layout! There is so much unique art throughout the home - I kept noticing fun little surprises over the course of our 2 nignt stay :) Perfect for stargazing, hikes in the forest, painting, drawing, and exploring the nearby towns of Abiquiu and Ojo Caliente.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lynette D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host gave us a warm welcome upon our arrival. What a great colorful, fun space to spread out and enjoy creativity. I appreciated that there was a yoga mat and cushion. The deck was awesome- such serenity and peace sitting out amongst the trees. The bed was super comfy!We loved our time here.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jacob B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming and Relaxing

Perfect place to spend a few days relaxing in beautiful northern New Mexico. Place has tons of charm, character, and all the right vibes.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 19 September 2022
Hello Jacob, thank you for choosing Harmony Hill. We're happy you enjoyed your stay! Best Wishes
Verified review

8/10 Good

Gale B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Secluded treasure

Rural location, super friendly & helpful host, cozy comfortable accomodations. Would enjoy again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Erin F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful property!

Loved the beautiful property! Gorgeous views and fun to walk around the forest behind the home! The beds were incredibly comfy as well!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rachel B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This cozy retreat had everything we needed and all the whimsy we wanted. The setting was spectacularly beautiful. The property was thoughtfully designed, secluded, and private. It was magical. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

gareth h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful stay in arty house

Original arty house surrounded by beautiful nature
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

About the host

Hosted by Bobbie

Host profile image
Originally from Texas, I spent 20 years in New York raisin my children. When the time for them to leave the nest I embarked on a journey across the US. I spent 3 years traveling in my 1969 Airstream trailer. In the end, when I was ready to expand into I decided on New Mexico- the land of Enchantment. Nothing compares to our pastel skies and eclectic rock formations. To be honest I bid on this house before seeing it, I just had a feeling. When I my offer was accepted and I visited by new home I realized I had been gifted a miracle. Harmony Hill has been my sanctuary- ever evolving and transforming and we plant more fruit tree and deepen our relationship with the land. I love the magic here. I hope you do too.

Why they chose this property

The neighborhood is quaint. Mostly rancheros and reclusive artists and the occasional stray cow. I love to visit the library, or take a drive to watch the sunset. Some morning I head over to Cafe Sierra Negra to chat with the incredibly friendly staff and have a nice meal.

What makes this property unique

New Mexico is thought to be flat and dry- but that's quite the contrary. My property is nestled against a gentle sloping hill that fades into the mountainous Carson National Forest. Harmony Hill is a one mile drive from the El Rito campground, which has a beautiful little river, a climbing area, and awesome day use areas. We arent far from iconic landscapes like Plaza Blanca and Echo Amiptheater. Its truly a special place a perfect get away from the urban lifestyle.

Languages:

English

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