The Bishop is Back
By Meda Kessler
Photos courtesy of Bishop’s Lodge
After a major makeover, this iconic Santa Fe getaway is ready for guests
History. Scenery. Architecture.
The reopened Bishop’s Lodge in Santa Fe has an abundance of all three, and we’ll also add “amenities” to that list. Acquired by new owners in 2014 and under renovation/construction since 2015, the resort is now under the management of Auberge Resorts Collection, the luxury hotel brand that emphasizes guest experiences as well top-notch design and local tie-ins, be it art or food.
The lodge’s rooms and houses, including the 12-bedroom Bunkhouse with vaulted 36-foot ceilings, are spread out in 18 buildings on a third of the resort’s 300-plus acres. Bishop’s Lodge sits adjacent to the Santa Fe National Forest, yet it is also convenient to the city plaza. And, of course, the iconic 1874 chapel remains the focal point with its steeple visible from anywhere on the property.
It’s difficult to outshine Santa Fe’s scenery; Bishop’s Lodge does its best to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, including a newly added trout stream. Whether you choose to saddle up and hit the trails, raft the Rio Grande or settle in front of a fire pit and stare at the flames, you’ll be surrounded by New Mexico’s natural beauty.
Self-care ranks high on the list of things to do at Bishop’s Lodge, whether it’s spa treatments, meditation or sound therapy. Immersing oneself in art — as a spectator or through hands-on activities — is part of the experience, too. And since shopping is a vacation requisite for many, how convenient it is to have an
on-site boutique, Nathalie, with selections of jewelry, clothing and global finds chosen by a former editor of French Vogue. (The original store can be found on Canyon Road.) You’ll find local artwork at the adjacent Gerald Peters Gallery.
For sustenance, guests have options including SkyFire, with amazing views and a menu conceptualized by Dallas’ Dean Fearing. And, yes, there’s a “chile host” to help guide pepper lovers through levels of heat and flavor. Expect lots of fire, too, thanks to the restaurant’s grill-heavy menu and the many fireplaces.
Where you choose to hang your hat ranges from cozy guest rooms to spacious suites, multi-bedroom casitas and the aforementioned Bunkhouse, which offers almost 10,000 square feet of living space. (Fort Worth designer Mary Alice Palmer of HKS Hospitality Interiors oversaw the team responsible for the look of Bishop’s Lodge.)
We love the privacy of the Kiva Suite, a spacious one-room option that offers privacy, an indoor-outdoor fireplace and its own outdoor plunge pool. It is roomy, rustic yet modern and offers great views of the property. Now, where’s that “Do Not Disturb” door hanger?
THE DETAILS
Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection Go to the website for rates, room options and everything else you need to know about the resort. aubergeresorts.com/bishopslodge