Introducing The Inn of The Five Graces, Where the Silk Road Meets Santa Fe
May 28, 2023 by Perrie Hartz
Nestled in the very heart of downtown Santa Fe’s historic Barrio de Analco neighborhood, The Inn of The Five Graces is a soulful sanctuary of peace, luxury, and quiet that reflects the city’s rich blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo-American cultures. Located on one of Santa Fe’s oldest streets and just a stone’s throw away from the famous 17th-century San Miguel Chapel—this family-owned Relais & Chateaux property is a charming hidden gem with an incredible history and a tangible warmth, inviting guests into a sensory feast that awakens the imagination and nurtures the soul.
Owners Ira and Sylvia Seret—designers and internationally-known importers of exotic antiques, rugs, textiles—first opened the property in 1996, transforming a few neglected adobe buildings into an incredibly unique luxury hotel. Conceived as a showcase for the Serets’ passions and creative talents, the 24-suite inn has become a magical art-filled retreat, brimming with some of the family’s most exotic treasures, collected on their travels through Central and South Asia. “The Inn of The Five Graces” was named in honor of its sensuous atmosphere, along with its many Afghan and Tibetan artifacts, and refers to an Eastern concept—the five graces of sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste— in which each sense needs to be fully honored and appreciated to truly experience life.
From the moment you step foot inside The Inn of The Five Graces, you’ll be transported into a world of opulence and elegance. Each of the hotel’s 24 suites is unique, yet all effortlessly weave together elements from diverse cultures, showcasing the vibrant aesthetics of the Orient, the warmth of the Mediterranean, and the rustic charm of the American Southwest. The result is an architectural masterpiece that exudes an air of tranquility and harmony.
Each room is adorned with Afghan rugs, handcrafted Silk Road textiles, and carefully curated East Indian and Tibetan antiques, creating an atmosphere that is both lavish and inviting, from the ornate wooden furnishings to the vivid and colorful mosaic-like patterns that adorn the curtains and headboards. All rooms boast traditional wood-burning kiva fireplaces, while some also have cozy private balconies and spacious sitting areas. The exquisite bathrooms are magnificent in their own right, showcasing detailed hand-laid tile work, double sinks, deep soaking tubs, and separate showers.
For guests eager for even more privacy and space, The Inn of The Five Graces offers the Luminaria Villa, a large three-bedroom, three-bathroom private villa that encompasses 2,000 square feet of pure opulence. This showstopper boasts five wood-burning fireplaces, expansive patios, private balconies, and a chef’s kitchen and breakfast nook adorned with hand-carved cabinetry and colorful hand painted tile. An intricate cathedral ceiling crowns the living room, accented by 18th century carved wood.
Adobe Rose, the latest design masterpiece by Ira & Sylvia Seret, showcases their renowned one-of-a-kind furnishings, including the expansive indigo patchwork sectional and the vast mosaic bathrooms created by Sylvia Seret. The defining feature of Adobe Rose is its breathtaking view of the San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the United States. This historic 400-year-old mission serves as a picturesque backdrop, complemented by the scenic vistas of Santa Fe and the majestic Sangre de Cristo mountains. Every room offers a glimpse of this captivating view, with the private balcony, the Mughal sandstone clad bathtub, and the Uzbek embroidered headboard providing particularly exceptional perspectives.
Other special features include exquisite furnishings and artwork from the Seret’s private collection, such as 18th-century Mughal embroidered tapestries and Peruvian prayer blankets. The bathroom, a mosaic masterpiece with hand-hewn marble floors and countertops, stands as the sole suite with a private steam shower, adding an extra personal touch to your stay.
The inn’s largest private residence, the 5,000 square foot Tesuque Villa, embodies the very best of Santa Fe, blending traditional southwestern architecture with modern lines, and interiors that are as comfortable as they are elegant. Set in the picturesque valley of Tesuque, this stylish retreat is just a short drive from The Inn of The Five Graces and all of the offerings of downtown Santa Fe. The villa boasts four bedrooms and four and a half baths (including a private guest house), making it the ideal space for celebrations, family gatherings or small corporate retreats. The residence is surrounded by more than an acre of gardens, perfectly manicured lawns, flowing streams, and peaceful water features.
The artistic spirit of Santa Fe permeates every corner of this boutique property, where walls are adorned with a mesmerizing collection of artwork, including vibrant paintings, sculptures, and intricate tapestries. As you wander the hallways and common areas, you’ll feel as if you’re strolling through a living gallery, with each piece telling a story of its own. The hotel also hosts regular art exhibitions and events, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the vibrant local art scene. For those who’ve fallen in love with the inn’s exquisite furnishings, Seret and Sons’ extensive showroom is just a short walk away.
The Inn of The Five Graces is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a culinary delight for the senses. The hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, the Pink Adobe, features a creative menu that blends both traditional, regional cuisine and global flavors, and its made-to-order breakfast (eaten in-room or in the peaceful courtyard) is not-to-be-missed. Guests can also lounge in the shaded courtyard bar and enjoy an aperitif, beer, wine, and a selection of small bites.
After a full day of site seeing and museum exploration, the property’s splendid spa offers a peaceful oasis of rest and relaxation along with thoughtful wellness treatments designed to nourish each of the five senses. Rooted in the philosophies and rituals of the Silk Road, these healing and restorative therapies and practices rejuvenate the body, calm the mind, and open the heart.
Guests can indulge in deep tissue massages that use organic, hand-crafted oils, take a refreshing dip in the soaking pool, and explore the inn’s wellness center that offers traditional Himalayan and zen meditation, yoga, and fitness.
Ideally situated for exploring the cultural riches of Santa Fe, the inn is just steps away from downtown’s historic Plaza, where Native American artists showcase their stunning crafts and where the city’s vibrant events and festivals unfold. The hotel’s exceptional concierge service is always ready to assist guests in arranging personally curated tours, excursions, and experiences that highlight the best of what Santa Fe has to offer, from adventurous day trips to world-class operas, hiking, skiing and golf.
Art lovers will spend hours upon hours in the city’s many museums, discovering the works of world-famous painters like Georgia O’Keefe, while shoppers will revel in the hundreds of shops and galleries sprinkled throughout the downtown area. For those looking for a more customized itinerary, a range of private experiences and tours are available, including hot air ballooning, historic walking tours, cooking classes, and chocolate tasting workshops.
Santa Fe is a must-visit destination year-round for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends history, culture, and luxury. Its high season begins in May through October, while its low and shoulder season include November through April. From its exquisitely designed suites to its dedication to preserving and celebrating diverse artistic traditions, the Inn of The Five Graces is a hidden gem that captures the true spirit of Santa Fe in all its splendor.
Contact:
The Inn of The Five Graces, a Relais & Chateaux
150 East DeVargas Street
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501
Telephone: 505-992-0957
Email: guestservices@fivegraces.com
Website: https://fivegraces.com/