I just returned from visiting Vermejo, and the word that keeps coming to mind is magical—not in the theme-park sense of the word, but in a far deeper way.
This is the kind of magic that happens when nature, history, conservation, wildlife, and more than 558,000 acres of restored wilderness come together. Vermejo is a place where you truly disconnect from noise and reconnect with the land. It’s immersive, grounding, and unforgettable.
Larger than most national parks, Vermejo spans 920 square miles of Southern Rocky Mountain terrain—ranging from snow-capped alpine tundra and pristine lakes to vast grasslands home to roaming bison and elk. Simply stepping onto the property feels like entering a different rhythm of life.
What makes Vermejo especially unique is how seamlessly adventure and comfort coexist. Each day includes two half-day guided activities, thoughtfully curated around your interests. Guests can explore the open prairie on horseback, glide through forested trails on e-bikes, fly-fish for Rio Grande cutthroat trout, or enjoy a front-row seat to wildlife on a North American safari. With 19 fishable lakes, 30 miles of pristine streams, and more than 45 nature-inspired activities, there is truly something for every type of explorer.
Lodging options are just as thoughtfully designed, ranging from intimate historic cottages and eco-friendly mountain cabins to private residences and a grand, turn-of-the-century mansion. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, there’s a setting that feels both personal and special.
And then there’s the dining—an experience in its own right. Guests enjoy three gourmet meals daily, along with non-alcoholic beverages, all included. Executive Chef Giovanni Lanzante and his culinary team deliver Modern American cuisine with bold Southwestern influences, highlighting locally sourced ingredients. Expect flavors built around garden-fresh produce, local game, Hatch green chilies, and fresh trout—meals that feel elevated yet deeply connected to place.
It certainly doesn’t hurt that Vermejo offers five-star service where nearly everything is included and effortlessly coordinated. Everything you need is at your fingertips, allowing you to stay fully present.
At this point, I’ve visited a number of ranches across the United States, and Vermejo stands apart. It’s not just luxurious—it’s intentional. It’s a place I would confidently recommend for outdoor-focused travelers, fishing and wildlife enthusiasts, and groups looking for a setting that inspires connection—whether for personal adventure or a business strategy retreat.
A heartfelt thank you to Harry, Mary, PJ, Parker, Chef Giovanni, Kelly, Colleen, Robert, Orion, and the entire Vermejo team who make this experience so seamless, thoughtful, and truly special. The care, knowledge, and passion behind the scenes are what elevate Vermejo from a beautiful place to an unforgettable one.
If you’re interested in learning more about Vermejo or exploring whether it might be the right fit for you or your group, I’d love to connect and share more.
Shannon Sweeney Kruse / Founder House of Travel Design / Concierge Travel Advisor
