Stellar, Southwest, Luxury home. Extraordinary location on Abiquiu Lake
'Breathtaking,' 'Fabulous,' 'Stellar,' 'Magical' - Casa del Rio, a unique southwestern home awaits those who seek a glimpse into what the West was like – before it was “won.”
Casa del Rio offers timeless views of the Rio Chama, Abiquiu Lake, Ghost Ranch - with no other habitation to confound the imagination. The house rests on a mesa about 100 feet above the narrowest part of the Rio Chama, just before it empties into Abiquiu Lake. Guests of the Casa enjoy limited access to the private lakefront. Four circles of stones (tipi rings) found on the land are silent proof that these vistas have been enjoyed by people for hundreds of years.
Inside the 1500 square foot house, you will find all the luxuries and amenities of the 21st century. An open floor plan includes a great room, dining area, and kitchen; all under hand-hewn vigas harvested from the San Juan forest. Leather couches, swivel chair, Taos-made furniture - all make it a pleasure to take in the ever changing landscape in any direction. (Be sure to catch the dawn when the morning light descends upon the water). Hand painted retablo and santos, Navaho and Zapotec rugs, prints by RC Gorman, and Georgia O'Keefe all enhance the experience of being immersed in the southwest.
The kitchen features granite countertops, energy saving appliances, and an island with cooktop. A 42” LED satellite TV, WiFi, and soundbar provide connection to the modern world. (for those who must) Soft foam, queen size mattresses, resort quality bedding ensure your night’s rest – so you can be prepared for your next day’s adventure...
Located in the heart of the Piedra Lumbre (Valley of the Shining Stones) Casa del Rio was designed for outdoor living. Covered portales on the east, north, and west sides provide shade from the ever bright New Mexico sun. The concave shape of the house provides shelter from wind and wraps around an additional 800 square feet of a Colorado red flagstone courtyard. On the courtyard, or under the portal, you will find; a three-burner gas grill, two lounge chairs, a love seat, and table and dining chairs for four.
To complete your Abiquiu experience there is an outdoor hot tub positioned for panoramic river and mountain views. For those who prefer, there is also a two-person, heart-shaped bath. Full moon nights are so bright you can see colors on the walls of the river canyon. On moonless nights the stars seem so close you could almost reach up and touch them...
Regarding the coronavirus, I would like my guests to know that I take the pandemic very seriously. In addition to already high standards for cleanliness, all surface areas and commonly touched objects like keys, doorknobs, TV remote, etc. are cleaned and disinfected between visits.
The waters of Abiquiu provide an important resting place for migratory birds; a virtual oasis in a land of desert and mountains. Eagles, osprey, geese, and many other species take time to have their needs met on their way to other destinations. Perhaps this description may one day apply to you!
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*WILL TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY* 360 Degree Views of Abiquiu Lake & Ghost Ranch
Youngsville
*WILL TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY* 360 Degree Views of Abiquiu Lake & Ghost Ranch
No motorized watercraft, trailers, motor homes, or recreational vehicles are allowed without permission of the owner.
Please respect 20 mph speed limit.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 574618vb
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 first aid kit
About the area
Youngsville
Located in Youngsville, this holiday home is in the mountains and on a lake. Rio Chama and Carson National Forest reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Girasol Gift Shop at Bode's and Ruth Hall Museum of Paleontology. Kayaking and rafting offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and cycling nearby.
Florence Hawley Ellis Museum of Anthropology - 43 min drive - 35.7 km
Ruth Hall Museum of Paleontology - 43 min drive - 35.7 km
Getting around
Los Alamos, NM (LAM-Los Alamos County) - 88 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Stellar, Southwest, Luxury home. Extraordinary location on Abiquiu Lake pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Stellar, Southwest, Luxury home. Extraordinary location on Abiquiu Lake?
As of 12 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Stellar, Southwest, Luxury home. Extraordinary location on Abiquiu Lake on 3 July 2026 start from NZ$463, 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.
What time is check-in at Stellar, Southwest, Luxury home. Extraordinary location on Abiquiu Lake?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Stellar, Southwest, Luxury home. Extraordinary location on Abiquiu Lake?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Stellar, Southwest, Luxury home. Extraordinary location on Abiquiu Lake located?
Situated on a lake, this holiday home is 9.3 mi (14.9 km) from Rio Chama and within 20 miles (32 km) of Carson National Forest and Cerro Pedernal. Ghost Ranch and Girasol Gift Shop at Bode's are also within 20 miles (32 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
A spectacular retreat to recharge your batteries and flood your senses with beautiful scenery. All quiet except for the birds. Absolutely loved our stay, and our hikes. Gordon is a gracious and very responsive host. We'll be back!
This is our 4th time staying here, and as always, its very comfortable. Stunning views, incredibly peaceful, and plenty of sitting areas outside to see the Chama River and mountains. We went kayaking and swimming, and spent hours enjoying the views and watching sunsets.
Can’t say enough good things about this place. An amazing property in an amazing location. This was our second visit to the property and plan on going back when possible.Gordon is a great host, quick with communication and really accommodating.
We were pleased with the remoteness and privacy. Beautiful scenery and a very nice clean property
Sandy C.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2015
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Sandy, I am glad to know you and Britt had a good time at the lake. Hope to host you two again.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
James W.
14 April 2018
Beautiful home in a beautiful place!
Loved the spectacular views and peaceful location. Looking forward to returning in the fall.
James W.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
James and Belinda - you two are great guests. I am so happy you enjoyed your stay. It is really rewarding when people return to Casa del Rio for multiple visits - your stay in September will be a nice contrast to being here in the Spring. Safe travels until then!
We spent Thanksgiving week here and had an amazing time. The views were out of this world. Gordon's place is a little piece of paradise and we can't wait to come back in the summer when we can enjoy the lake more.
An amazing property with wonderful wonderful views.
This is a most wonderful property with fabulous views and a wonderful home. We loved everything about our stay. We are definitely coming back next year.
nancy v.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Thank you, Nancy, for all the great feed back. I believe that your, "no moon," experience next September will be even more amazing!
What an incredible place. Beauty in all directions. The house was warm and comfortable and perfect for a family trip to Abique. We cannot wait to come back.
3rd time staying there
Will be back again
Lots of great hiking in the area
Fantastic sky full of stars
Morning soak in the hot tub
Loved it all
Gregory A.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Nancy B.
12 January 2019
Solitude, gorgeous scenery, beautiful house.
The warm radiant heated floors, the well-stocked kitchen, the breath-taking scenery, the absence of neighbors, all led to our having a relaxing and rewarding experience at Casa Rio.
Nancy B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Hi Nancy, Sounds like you enjoyed your stay. Thanks for taking the time to write such a concise description. I hope you will consider a return visit in the future.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jacob E.
22 November 2015
Amazing
The house was just what we were looking for. Solitude with great views! Stunning!
Jacob E.
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Hi Jacob. I am delighted that you got what you came for!. Hope the inspiration and relaxations lasts a long time. I will look forward to hosting you again!
Words cannot truly explain the breathtaking location and views from this property- you really have to see it for yourself! A bald eagle soaring over welcomed us on the first day.
Allison C.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2024
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Cassie C.
2 December 2015
Best Thanksgiving Ever
The house was so great! We had an amazing time and were very well taken care of by the owners. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in staying in Abiquiu. The beds were comfortable, the hot tub was a great way to end each evening, the entertainment setup and movies featuring Abiquiu were also a great touch. Thanks again for the wonderful stay.
Cassie C.
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Hi Cassie - I am delighted to now that you and your friends enjoyed being at the house for Thanksgiving...a great place to spend special time with special people. There are so many movies that have been filmed in this area and I guess you now know why!!!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Cristina R.
27 September 2014
Peaceful
Wonderful place to relax and enjoy the gorgeous view. The house is beautiful and very comfortable. Gordon the owner was a pleasure to deal with and fast to respond to questions. My family and I can't wait to go back!
Our friends first time at a Vrbo. We were all beyond awed by he whole setting. Already planning a return visit. Thank you
keith p.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Thank you, Keith, for your visit and for your compliments. I am glad that your friends enjoyed their first VRBO experience. I would be delighted to have you back.
If you don't mind being well away from shops/restaurants (i.e. stock up on groceries before you arrive), this place is a gem. Amazing views, atop a hill overseeing Lake Abiquiu, very nicely maintained place. Owner was super-easy to deal with. My wife and I just relaxed for 2 days. Great place to decompress.
Harry K.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Harry, I am very pleased to know that you and Maryanne enjoyed your "decompression" at the lake. Hope you will consider returning when you are in need of some more quiet time.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
James W.
2 November 2018
Fabulous!
We enjoyed two wonderful weeks. Lovely home in a lovely setting! Perfect in every way. Gordon is a terrific host. Hope to return.
James W.
Stayed 14 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Hi James - I am so glad you enjoyed your second stay at Casa del Rio. It is very gratifying when guests return. I hope your ankle has healed. When you return please be sure to ask me about the many great hikes in the area!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Allison Z.
4 May 2016
Stunning experience
It's hard to believe this property is for real because the whole experience of it feels like a dream-come-true.
Allison Z.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
Hi Allison - thanks for your superb review. It is kind of dream like to be at the lake - all those colors and ever changing sky. The night sky can be pretty inspiring, too. The first time I saw the Milky Way out there I thought that I could almost jump up and touch the stars. I would be delighted to have you and your family visit again. Hope you will consider it.
About the host
Hosted by Gordon Hirsch
I have lived in northern New Mexico for 15 years. I'm happy to share my experiences and to recommend places to go and things to do. I have keep a booklet at the house that lists 10 different trails to enjoy.
Why they chose this property
A 15 minute drive from the highway, Casa Rio is situated at 'the end of the trail' leading to Abiquiu lake. When you look to the East, North, or West there is no sign of human habitation to distract the eye. The landscape has remained this way for millions of years.
Hollywood crews have been coming to this area for decades to shoot films requiring vivid scenery typical of the wild west. Some movies made in the area include: the Lone Ranger,, Silverado, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull, No Country for Old Men, The Missing, Wyatt Earp, 3:10 to Yuma, Red Dawn, the Last Outlaw, and City Slickers.
What makes this property unique
It offers sensational, undisturbed views of the lake, river canyon, and mountains.
This is the only lakefront property with a private trail to Abiquiu Lake, opening up a whole new world to be discovered.
This is also a great 'base camp' for exploring more of northern New Mexico.
An ideal location for nature lovers, anglers, paddlers, astronomers, archaeologists, paleontologists, botanists, geologists, historians, birders, artists, writers, musicians, hikers - of all skill sets. This is an amazing place for anyone with a sense of wonder!
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests