The Spirit of the Wild West is Calling...
From the Rocky Mountains to the golden California hills, the West was representative of the better things. Today, Travelers recognize the Rockies for great snow sports and California for Hollywood's greatest hits. Lucky for us, the historic spirit of the West lives on. From old stagecoach stops to modern wine trails, the western countryside is home to some of America's most rugged beauty.
When travelers surpass the expected, a world of wildlife, culture, and kindness shines through. That is why we have selected two unique Western properties for you to discover. Both capture the spirit of the West in drastically different ways. At each of these incredible properties, you will be immersed in the history of the West.
New Mexico's Wild West Era
New Mexico played a significant role in the Wild West era, with its rugged landscapes and vibrant frontier communities. The infamous Lincoln County War, involving figures like Billy the Kid, unfolded in the late 19th century, contributing to the region's reputation for lawlessness. Additionally, the town of Santa Fe served as a vital hub along the historic Santa Fe Trail, linking the Wild West to the broader expansion of the American frontier.
Today you can experience the rugged beauty of New Mexico's Wild West at Vermejo, A Ted Turner Reserve.
Vermejo, A Ted Turner Reserve
This luxury, all-inclusive stay is unlike any property we have ever experienced. Here, you'll learn to live better by connecting to nature and realizing your impact on the world around you.
Experiences at many luxury resorts create a feeling of fantasy; rather than experiencing just an elevated lifestyle, perfection takes over. Ted Turner's Vermejo is a standout experience that will leave a lasting impact. As you experience the untamed wild of this 588,000-acre retreat, you realize what life was like and why conservation should be at the forefront of everything we do.
A Legacy in the Making
The Reserve properties in this collection all have one thing in common: they symbolize the positive impact humans can have when they decide to put conservation first. At Ted Turner Reserves, guests become a part of environmental preservation and wildlife restoration projects funded by the Turner Foundation and Turner Endangered Species Fund.
Each stunning property works to preserve wilderness areas for generations to come. Through the support of environmental researchers and scientists, these properties have become a sterling example of the potential of rewilding efforts in the Americas.
Conservation efforts on Ted Turner Reserves also include the protection of rare and iconic species – such as the North American bison, Bolson tortoise, Rio Grande cutthroat trout, and Mexican wolf – along with initiatives like the riparian restoration plan and the Ponderosa pine restoration project.
We welcome you to witness conservation in action while enjoying the holiday of a lifetime.
These properties are setting an example of the incredible role travel might play in conservation.
Stagecoaches in Santa Barbara County's Los Olivos
In the 1800s, Los Olivos, located in California's Santa Ynez Valley, emerged as a vital stagecoach stop along the San Francisco to San Diego route. Established in the 1880s, the town thrived due to its strategic location, offering respite for travelers and livestock. Its roots are deeply tied to the region's ranching and agricultural history, laying the foundation for the quaint and historic character that Los Olivos preserves today.
In 1886, the Inn at Mattei's Tavern was born. This popular stagecoach stop and hidden Prohibition watering hole has long maintained its place in Central Coast lore. Thanks to recent renovations, this beloved landmark has entered a new chapter. Stay at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern to discover the beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley.
The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, An Auberge Resort, Los Olivos, California
Los Olivo's laid-back wine country luxury awaits. Sip vibrant Pinots, savor local olive oils, or relax with one of Mattei's specialty cocktails. Los Olivos is known for the region's award-winning vineyards and easy access to the stunning Los Padres National Forest. Spend the day tasting the award-winning wines of the valley's microclimates, take bikes to explore the renowned trails of the Los Padres, or seek views of golden California on horseback; this is the Wild West reimagined.
After a day exploring the Santa Ynez Valley, retreat to the Inn at Mattei's Tavern, where cottage-style accommodations are nestled among lavender gardens and old-growth palm trees. Dine on the vibrant, seasonal flavors of the region in the open-air restaurant, or relax poolside, followed by stories and s'mores around the firepit.
Protip: Don't miss the exceptional espresso in Mattei's own Felix Feed & Coffee
This desirable coffee and bakery concept is everything you want your beloved neighborhood cafe to be. The perfect venue for a light breakfast or easy all-day dining, it enlivens the signature rooms of the Tavern. Named for Mattei’s original owner, the European-style coffee bar hosts expert baristas and bakers, offering excellent espresso alongside fresh-baked pastries, sweets, and bread.
Travel There
Ready to travel to Vermejo? The property provides complimentary shuttles from the airport in Raton, New Mexico. For an additional cost, transfers are available from Aberquerqe or Denver.
To access the Inn at Mattei's Tavern, fly into Santa Barbara Airport 30 minutes away or into LAX 132 miles away.
Whatever Wild West you are looking to experience, our advisors are happy to help.
