PHOTOS ABOVE AND BELOW: CAMERON CONE
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ave you ever looked out along a long stretch of road and wondered, “What’s out there?” If you’re up I-25 near Raton, the answer to your questions is: Vermejo Park Ranch. Owned by media mogul and philanthropist Ted Turner, Vermejo Park Ranch boasts 585,000 acres of pristine wilderness. Given its owner, you might not be surprised to learn of its gorgeous historic accommodations and superb outdoor recreation, but you might be surprised to learn it is open to guests year round. The large and opulent main house on the premise, Casa Grande, served as a home for the Turners until renovations began four years ago. In June 2016, Casa Grande will officially open its doors again, this time to guests. Renovations have included extensive reconstruction bringing it up to date in terms of plumbing and electricity, and also restoring the original interior look and feel. “We’ve even gone so far as to match the original wallpaper,” says Nicole Reed, head of marketing and program development.
Opulence Meets Open Country
The original owner of Vermejo was William H. Bartlett, a grain tycoon from Illinois who made his fortune in Chicago.
Bartlett had two sons with tuberculosis, so he moved to New Mexico in hopes of remedying them via the dry western air. He bought the Vermejo property and built his own outdoor playground. Casa Grande was built in 1907, designed by an architect who had been an apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright. The current renovations seek to restore the grand old house to its former glory. Besides Casa Grande and its imminent grand opening, the ranch includes two other guest accommodation options. The area known colloquially as Headquarters is home to the restaurant, shop and communications center. Headquarters also hosts the historic home, Casa Minor, with 12 hotel rooms and six independent guest cottages all built in the early 20th century. Then there’s Costilla Lodge, which is another hour’s drive into the property. Costilla Lodge is completely off the grid, powered by solar. It’s available as a buyout for a two night minimum or occasionally available by the room. While Casa Grande’s official opening is in June, a soft opening takes place February 11th in time for Valentine’s Day. “It’s a test
run after the renovation,” Reed explains. “We really need that time frame to ensure the building is operational and up to our standards, yet it will be open for guests.” Vermejo’s assortment of outdoor activities runs the gamut. The winter season include ice fishing, snow shoeing and select availability of Nordic skiing depending on snow levels. There are also ongoing wildlife tours, which of course are weather dependent. As winter transitions to spring, the ranch becomes a fly fishing hub. Late March and early April are especially fantastic for fly fishing, and then for three weeks in April the turkey hunts reign supreme. Summer brings everything from fishing, hiking and horseback riding to cultural, historic and wildlife tours. Whether you’re looking for a remote getaway or an opulent retreat among the finest of scenery, Vermejo Park Ranch packages the expanse of New Mexico into a destination unlike any other. Vermejo Park Ranch Raton 575.445.3097 www.vermejoparkranch.com