The Vibe: Southwestern authenticity.

The Area: On the original Route 66 (now directed) in New Mexico’s capital Santa Fe, a city known for its creative arts scene and Pueblo-style architecture. It is near the trendy Baca district in the Santa Fe Railyard, a popular hub for entertainment and shopping.

The DNA: Originally opened in 1936 and set over a five-acre campus, El Rey Court boasts a contemporary Southwest vibe – from its amiable ambience to modern amenities and local artworks. Owners Jay and Alison Carroll—keen to create a design-forward motel update for a social media generation with an acute sense for aesthetics coupled with a sense of authenticity to its surrounds—have hit the nail on the head here; from Logan Maxwell Hagege’s print that hangs behind the front desk, through a swathe of custom-made design pieces dotted around the spacious buildings, and cute kitsch detailings. Craft beer, wine, sake and mescals can be downed in easy-going La Reina, a bar open every evening to welcome weary travellers and lairy locals. And for those who wake with a heavy head, the El Rey Court Swim Club at the heart of the property features a large pool in which to rejuvenate under the Southwestern sun perhaps; a hair of the dog cocktail in hand.

Suite-Me-Up: With a variety of room types and an abundance of spaces to unwind and explore, guests here can enjoy local laidback sensibilities, combined with New Mexican aesthetics and glossy-mag-interiors that include Kiva fireplaces, ceilings typical of the region, ornate tinwork, and willow shutters.

Seen: dezeen, The Style Sketchbook, WeHeart

Accolades: Condé Nast Traveller Hot List 2019

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 86 rooms & suites (22-151m2) (237-1,626 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2019 ✅ free on-site parking • pets allowed • 24-hour front desk