Cozy. Intimate. Constructed from and steeped in the surrounding landscape. A gathering place for some of the 20th century's most dynamic individuals. Sounds like a PERFECT location for a Rowan Tree Travel retreat, where the Merry Band of Travelers gathers to relax, renew and celebrate our shared joy in making.

In the transition between winter's stark beauty and the budding of spring, we invite you to join us for a week at the Mabel Dodge Luhan Home, an historic inn and conference center in Taos. You will feel at home and at peace from the moment you step onto the property. Its adobe buildings, great viga and latilla ceilings, kiva fireplaces and one-of-a-kind decor will transport you to the early twentieth century, the era of those who built and lived there. In keeping with that era, guest rooms are telephone, internet and television free. You will experience a true break from our busy, modern life. (Internet and phone service are available in the common areas of the main house, in case you need to take a break from taking a break from modern life.) 

Suzie Briddsang is our retreat teacher, guiding us through her mindful “Conversations about Creativity” curriculum. Suzie is a traveler, writer, knitter, sheep nerd and self-described “creative”. She's pleased as punch to spend time with us at the Mabel Dodge Luhan House. In her eyes, it's both an historic example and an inspiring setting in which to explore how "place" weaves itself into the creative impulse -- and is, in turn, shaped by it. Facilitated sessions and activities will also delve into the experiences, values and intentions we hold regarding our own creative endeavors. There will be a sculpture workshop using flax roving (no experience necessary) excessive soaking in the thermal mineral waters of nearby Ojo Caliente, a visit to our neighbors at the Taos Pueblo* and more! A few unstructured evenings and afternoons are yours to enjoy as you prefer. Knit with friends. Spend time in quiet reflection. Venture out to explore some of Taos. 

Add in moments of reading by a crackling fire, lovingly prepared meals and a wander or two alongside the acequia, under the winterscape of towering cottonwoods and willows. Retreat cost includes accommodation, most meals, workshops (including supplies) and a few surprises. Come share your love of handcrafts and the creative impulse with us, your new and old friends. By week's end, we'll be well on our way toward spring, inspired to throw the windows of life wide open to a fresh, new season.

*We hope! Taos Pueblo has changeable hours, though it's open to the public most days. We'll simply have to wait and see whether our retreat coincides with a time the pueblo is receiving visitors.

To Register 

A Registration Form and a non-refundable $1000 deposit are required to join the trip. Once you submit your online registration and deposit payment is received, your spot on the tour is secure. See our Terms & Conditions here.

Have questions? Please contact us at info@rowantreetravel.com

~The high desert setting of Northern NM winter weather can range from brilliant sun to a foot of snow - sometimes within the span of an hour! Be prepared to manage a winter-weather retreat. You will need to have a sturdy, warm pair of shoes with you. We also recommend the use of walking/trekking poles and Yaktrax (or similar) in case conditions become icy. 

~About the guest rooms at Mabel Dodge Luhan Inn, they do not have TV, phone or internet; phone service and internet are available in the common areas of the main house. For the safety of our guests and staff, fireplaces cannot be used in the guest rooms, however in the lounge and gathering areas, the staff will monitor all fires to keep us cozy.

~One more thing, while alcohol is allowed, this property does not have a bar/lounge which means BYOB 

This trip needs at least 14 participants in order to proceed (i.e. the trip is "guaranteed"). We strongly advise you to wait to purchase your flights until the trip is guaranteed by us to go forward. Unless otherwise stated, our regular Terms and Conditions apply to this trip and for any cancellations (click here to see our Terms and Conditions).

Tour Activity Level 

We would describe this trip as a Retreat.

Mobility Comfort Level = 3+

Narrow Stairs in historic adobe home built in 1918; gravel and flagstone courtyard, NO luggage portaging available and no elevators on the property; 20 - 30 min walk into town

Review our Tour Activity and Mobility Comfort Levels here.

Travel Insurance Rowan Tree Travel highly recommends purchasing travel insurance. You may purchase through our preferred partner Arch RoamRight by clicking here or through your own provider.

Arranging Your Flights In order to gather easily for the tour, we provide an arrival and departure "window" at a major transportation hub - typically an international airport at your destination country. Flights scheduled outside the provided windows may result in additional transportation costs and missed tour activities. For this reason, we greatly appreciate your cooperation in booking travel that accommodates our specifications. Please do not purchase airfare until the tour is guaranteed by RTTF to go forward.

Please Note the Following Rowan Tree Travel reserves the right to alter any part of this itinerary in order to address weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances or to improve the participant experience.