A Southwest Sanctuary: Exploring the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa

Joanna and I recently spent three nights at the incredible Hyatt Regency Tamaya. Although we knew we were going to enjoy it, we weren't prepared for how it blew us away! From the unobstructed views of the Sandia Mountains to the horses of Tamaya Horse Rescue on property, we loved every minute of our stay. We even had the best meal of our lives at the resort's feature restaurant, The Corn Maiden. Find the highlight bubbles on our Instagram pages for all the details of our stay (@joanna_gammon and @familytravel4thewin).

The Stables at Tamaya, home to the Tamaya Horse Rescue, is a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located on the grounds of the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa. This sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued and rehabilitated horses, many of which were surrendered or recovered from neglectful situations. Visitors can interact with these animals through guided trail rides through the scenic Rio Grande cottonwood forest or by visiting the stables to learn about the history and individual stories of the residents. Because the operation is a nonprofit, guest participation in activities directly supports the ongoing care, medical needs, and sheltering of the horses. Rides start at $90 and you must be 8 years or older for a group ride (call them to chat about a private ride if you have younger kids).

In addition to visiting with the horses, we enjoyed riding bikes around the resort property. It is one of the best ways to soak in the silence of the 550-acre estate while winding through the scenic trails of the cottonwood forest. We also made sure to sign up for the Clay & Culture class; available to guests for $33, it is a wonderful opportunity to learn traditional pottery techniques directly from tribal members in a setting that feels deeply connected to the land. To cap off the relaxation, a massage at the Tamaya Salon and Spa provided the perfect way to transition from the adventure of the trails to total vacation mode.

For an elevated dining experience, The Corn Maiden stands out as the resort’s signature culinary destination, offering a menu that highlights the bold flavors of the Southwest. To start, the House Made Whipped Ricotta and the crisp Corn Maiden Salad are absolute must-orders that set a high bar for the rest of the evening. The Buffalo Tenderloin serves as a spectacular centerpiece for the meal, perfectly seasoned and incredibly tender. For those looking for plant-based or dietary-friendly choices, Chef George’s Braised Cabbage is a phenomenal gluten-free and vegan option that delivers deep, complex flavors. Combined with the open-kitchen atmosphere and stunning views, it makes for a meal you won’t soon forget!

Tour the Hyatt Regency Tamaya via YouTube!

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