Sanctuary D'sante

In the small village of Chimayo, New Mexico , it is a little dark sanctuary each year attracts thousands of visitors. The dirt that is known for its healing properties, and many across the country hoping to be cured, regardless of the illness suffered by them. After visiting the shrine, the head of many of the Rancho de Chimayo, where some of the best authentic dishes from South-West is served. From there they head to the corner of U.S. Highway 84/285 and 503, where the highway begins. This famous road runs north from Santa Fe, to Penasco, then to Taos . This disc is an amazingly beautiful trip that is difficult to describe with words, as you leave behind the tourists abound in Chimayo, the road ahead is an open book, ready to be written.

A little ways on the road to Chimayo, signs direct you around 700 old Amerindian village of Nambe Pueblo, Nambe and falls. This region is full of Native American villages who are running the visitors back to a different time, and give them a glimpse into the calm, spiritual, natural way of life of Native Americans enjoy. This farming community has recently experienced a resurgence in traditional arts, including pottery. For those who wish, they can visit the pueblo, which is open every day, or go directly to the Nambe Falls, just 3 miles down the road. The falls are open daily through October.

Leaving behind the Nambe Pueblo, the magic of the highway begins. The path winding desert mountain takes you to a dusty town to another. The landscape is incredible. Looking through the side of the mountain, there overlooks where you can see for miles. As you near the towns and villages, many appear to be empty, when in fact they hold hidden treasures in the way of fine arts. Cordova and Truchas are two cities that deserve those few moments of your time for their galleries and studios. The artists are friendly and happy to take the time to show you around their workshop, and discuss how the natural beauty that surrounds them affects not only their works but their outlook on life.

The high road from Santa Fe to Taos is the perfect place to find and rediscover the beauty of the southwest. Whether you are here for man made art along the trail, or natural wonders of the desert landscape encompassing the mountain road, this drive quiet, spiritual in its own name, is sure to be an unforgettable journey.