This rental is impressive in many ways. It is spacious, and the owner is clearly upgrading the property and furnishings with good taste that reflects the local culture. The kitchen is very well equipped. The great room is beautiful. In winter, we did not make much use of the outdoors, but the kids did use the hot tub, and the veranda one evening. The caretaker was terrific. Friendly and responsive. He even got out a Christmas tree stand for us. You should be aware that there are unleashed, aggressive dogs outside the compound walls. They do back off, but keep your pets close. We did not have a pest problem. In heavy rain, the roof leaked in a few places, and we have reported this. Also the electricity went out a few times, not too long, in stormy weather. You have to realize that Taos is a small town in a very rural area. This is its character and interest value, and in Ranchos and Talpa, you are really living in the local culture. As with a number of restored homes in the area, you are fortunate to be able to stay in pleasant surroundings while avoiding the inescapable hype of Santa Fe. You are still able to visit artist studios and galleries, buy great jewelry at the Millicent Rogers Museum, and so on. We are glad we made the trip and could stay at the renovated convent on the Talpa road. My only concern with the checkin was that arriving in the dark, we could have used more lighting. Overall, this is a good choice for a Taos visit.
