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La Casita - a writer's cottage

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Exterior - La Casita - a writer's cottage (Arroyo Seco)
Property grounds - La Casita - a writer's cottage (Arroyo Seco)
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop - La Casita - a writer's cottage (Arroyo Seco)
Dining - La Casita - a writer's cottage (Arroyo Seco)
Terrace/patio - La Casita - a writer's cottage (Arroyo Seco)
Nestled among 200-year-old cottonwood trees, this guesthouse offers a serene retreat with a private balcony to take in the valley and mountain views. With roaming miniature donkeys, llamas, ostrich emu, and horses on 20 acres of pastureland. Take a short walk down the road to explore Arroyo Seco's restaurants and shops or hike up trails for breathtaking wild scenery.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue

Add dates for prices

About this property

La Casita - a writer's cottage

  • Welcome to our guesthouse nestled among 200 year old cottonwood trees overlooking acres of pasture with roaming miniature donkeys, llamas, ostrich emu and our horses!

    This is an exquisite setting on a family ranch formerly run with cattle and bison. Our family has been here for over 300 years, farming, ranching and tending the land. This is not your typical setting. Its bucolic, fresh, open and....green!

    The casita is a one bedroom, one bath with a balcony to enjoy the valley and mountain views while sipping your tea in the morning. We sit on about 20 acres and a private driveway, but the "jewel of Taos County- Arroyo Seco" is just a 10 minute walk down the road with 2 restaurants, and Taos Cow Ice Cream (voted in the top 10 in the nation!). There is also a grocery store, bar and a local dive to enjoy famous New Mexican chili!

    If you prefer to walk in the opposite direction, you can walk up to trails that offer the best of wild and natural in Taos County. Walk along the creek to the craggy cliffs, or up to the waterfalls that veil the caves behind them. Or sit among the cottonwoods and enjoy a spectacular sunset!

    Past guests describe our place as:
    “Stunning”
    “AMAZING”
    “Extraordinarily beautiful”
    “Hidden gem”
    “Perfect, perfect, perfect!”

    We are also a WEDDING VENUE! We’ve hosted several weddings in this idyllic setting. Imagine a big white tent among curated gardens, grassy fields, expansive mountain views and surrounded by exotic animals! Past weddings have included a hot air balloon and a horse-drawn carriage. Take a peek:

    https://sites.google.com/view/taos-cakes/wedding-venue?authuser=0

    Come see for yourself!

    We pride ourselves in a pet-free and smoke-free setting. Please note that we have cigarette smoke detectors that are checked after every stay. If there is an indication that there was smoking or pets in the guesthouse we will add a $450 cleaning fee so rest assured you will be in a smoke free setting! Finally, the entrance is up one flight of stairs so if you have trouble with stairs, this might not be your best housing option.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In the mountains

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

Events allowed: weddings

Wedding venue has additional fees. Please inquire

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

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
Parties and events (including weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50
Note from host: Wedding venue has additional fees. Please inquire
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit 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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

About the area

Located in Arroyo Seco, this holiday home is in the mountains. Rottenstone Pottery and KTAOS Solar Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include John Dunn Bridge and Governor Bent House and Museum. Kakawa Chocolate House and Twirl Toystore and Playspace are also worth visiting. Visit our Arroyo Seco travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Arroyo Seco
Map
Arroyo Seco, NM

What's nearby

  • Empty chairlift in Taos Ski Valley in Taos, New Mexico on a sunny day
    Taos Ski Valley
    20 min drive - 19.7 km
  • Rottenstone Pottery
    5 min drive - 2.6 km
  • KTAOS Solar Center
    13 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Manzanita Canyon Trailhead
    13 min drive - 12.6 km
  • Taos Plaza
    22 min drive - 21.1 km

Getting around

  • Taos, NM (TSM-Taos Regional)
    21 min drive

Restaurants

  • Medley.
    11 min drive
  • Tiwa Kitchen Restaurant
    21 min drive
  • Hunter Tom's
    6 min drive
  • Pizanos
    12 min drive
  • Farmhouse Cafe
    15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is La Casita - a writer's cottage pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at La Casita - a writer's cottage?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at La Casita - a writer's cottage?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at La Casita - a writer's cottage?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is La Casita - a writer's cottage located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is 1.4 mi (2.3 km) from Rottenstone Pottery and 2 mi (3.2 km) from Salto Del Agua Cave & Waterfall. Carson National Forest and KTAOS Solar Center are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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La Casita - a writer's cottage Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 40 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 40 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews

10

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

8.0

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a great place! Very private and clean cottage. I was very happy with my choice to stay in this serene and peaceful setting.My host was wonderful. He was responsive and prompt in our communications.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Larry R.

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

Week away from south Texas heat

As a whole “excellent”. Property and overall location was beautiful and very accessible to other areas for enjoyment. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela R.

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

Great location

Beautiful property, clean and well-appointed. Hosts Kris and David were very welcoming and friendly. Location is near Taos. Great for hiking, sightseeing, and many outdoor activities.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kermit e.

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

Ski Trip

Nice views! Close to Taos Ski Valley.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooke J.

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

Lovely and serene

Enjoyed our stay - beautiful property with so many amazing animals! David was very kind and responsive. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dave R.

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

Great little getaway

Beautiful secluded property within a short driving distance to all that Taos has to offer. The guest house was clean and lovely and the grounds were wonderful to stroll around and see the horses, yaks, donkeys, lamas and the two very friendly barn cats. We had a wonderful time.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alfred B.

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

This is a great place to get away

The property is beautiful with the animals and the extremely friendly cats. I would recommend this for a couple or couple with a small child. It was crowded with our teenager.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Penelope (Penny) P.

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

Peaceful Getaway in Taos

La Casita is a fabulous gem of a property located just outside of Taos. Everything about this property was perfect for us. It was meticulously clean and I loved sitting on the balcony in the cool mornings. Next time I’m in Taos, I hope La Casita is available!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole G.

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

Awesome

We had a wonderful stay at La Casita! The property is beautiful, and it is so fun to gaze upon the animals. We even made friends with a yak named Caesar. We will stay here again on our next Taos ski vacation.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin L.

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

Arroyo Seco quiet.

We stayed 3 nights for a Presidents' day wkd ski trip. Very easty to get to and convenient arroyo seco location. Well appointed garage apartment with everything we needed for a comfortable stay conveniently located to both the town and the ski valley. We will likely be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anna J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our original hotel overbooked even though we had a reservation on a trip to go skiing in Taos. We needed a quick pivot for our stay and my husband found this. The property and casita was well kept with easy access and lovely views. Communication with the host was excellent and timely. I will say one of the most unique and awesome parts of our stay was seeing and meeting the animals that live in the pasture. My kids and I sat at the fence edge the first day for a full 20 minutes just watching them in the pasture. We even got to meet Ceasar the Yak the second day! If you are looking for a quiet spot that has easy access to the mountain or downtown its a great option. You are also very close to Taos Cow which has amazing ice cream and breakfast.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Morgan R.

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

Perfect spot

Perfect spot for a quick trip to Taos! We wanted to bring our two young kids to see the mountains and real snow and could not have asked for a more ideal place to stay! Beautiful views from the front yard, the animals and land were a whole added bonus. Quick drive up the mountain, or back into town. The house had everything we needed, and the owners were a quick friendly text away.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kerry H.

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

Wonderful sunny casita on beautiful property

We had a lovely stay at the "writer's casita" in Arroyo Seco. The host was excellent and responsive. The casita was very clean with lots of sunlight and is located above a garage next to the main house on a truly idyllic property. There are chairs set up on the porch so you can sit in peace and view the beautiful landscape and all of the animals owned by the host. The property is perfectly situated about a mile outside the village of Arroyo Seco which has several good restaurants and the famous "Taos Cow" ice cream/coffee/breakfast and lunch venue. We would definitely love to go back - thanks for hosting us!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kori H.

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

Clean, quiet and perfect for our family weekend.

Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David H.

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

Good stsy

Another good stay
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole M.

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

Beautiful Garage Apartment

The place was great! Awesome location very close to Taos Ski Valley, lots of local options in Arroyo Seco, as well as a quick drive to the city of Taos. The hosts were super accommodating, we really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aurelia S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I stayed for six nights and David and Kris’s delightful, nicely equipped little apartment above their garage. The location is idyllic and so peaceful. I loved sitting on the balcony and watching the sun rise over Taos Mountain and then set down in the valley. The views are magnificent. It’s an easy rural walk down to Arroyo Seco. And an equally convenient drive into Taos. I loved every moment.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra S.

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

Great place close to Taos Ski Valley.

Loved it. Very clean and quiet(except for the dogs barking at night).
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marsha J.

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

Beautiful Views❤️

Would definitely stay here again. Next time I would probably come a different month though. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the views. (and all the animals) Got to pet my first yak❤️
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Lovely private coachhouse/casita in a beautiful setting. Peaceful and quiet with only the occasional bray from a local donkey that added some late-afternoon charm. The unit has nice amenities - very comfortable bed and a well stocked kitchen. Great morning an afternoon light with a pleasant little walk around the property and a in-depth guide to local hikes. Convenient to both Taos, Arroyo Seco and the ski area.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hedy F.

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

Complete Serenity!

This is such a peaceful and serene place and we recommend it wholeheartedly. It gets an 11 out of 10! The hosts were charming and the apartment was spacious, comfortable and very well appointed. The property is historic and the animals were a big treat! Thank you again for a marvelous stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth B.

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

Perfect

Stay here!!! It is perfect. Very close to Taos but far enough away to feel like you are in the country. David is a great host. The place is clean and has all you need. The animals are amazing.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gayle S.

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

Perfect getaway in the mountains!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in A Writer’s Cottage outside Arroyo Seco. Location was perfect for us, accessible to what we wanted and needed, but far enough away to feel the solitude! The casita was impeccable, clean and furnished with everything we needed. And the special boost was the friendly greeting of Ollie and Milo, our special cat hosts! Thanks for a perfect birthday celebration getaway! We would love to return when everything is blooming!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly H.

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

Do yourself a favor and stay here

The property is as pictured and more. Beautiful setting and gracious hosts.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David H.

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

Arroyo Seco March 2022

Really good stay, great hosts, location excellent for us.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022