Taos, New Mexico
Our little oak boxcar was built in 1898, and it rode the narrow gauge rails from southern New Mexico trying to reach Denver. Purchased from the Alamosa yard and moved to Pilar, NM, near Taos, Stephen used it to design passive solar systems when not building homes in Santa Fe. It became our place for romantic rendezvous before we built our family home.
Today it is our guesthouse. During several stages of remodeling we have tried to keep an authentic narrow-gauge boxcar feel to the space. We have added a Yodel gas stove, a Pullman kitchen with dining nook and closet, and most recently a bathroom with a very boxcar-esque sliding door. Our family members vie for the space when they are in town, and you can see why. It is so welcoming, and unique even for unique Taos. It isn't hard to imagine you are traveling the world on the historic Chili Line, even though there is wifi, a flat-screen TV, state-of-the-art lounging chairs for reading or TV viewing. The boxcar is powered by solar electric.
For the weary traveler the queen bed is firm and comfortable. Bamboo rayon sheets add a touch of elegance to the boxcar charm. We use only nontoxic, 'green' household products throughout. The 40' flat screen TV can be viewed from the bed or the lounges. The couch is a 'Taos Bed', easily made up to sleep a third guest. The Pullman kitchen includes china and wine glasses, a two-burner electric stove, a small fridge, a sink and a toaster oven. Perhaps best of all, the 'slipper' tub invites leisurely baths or hand-held showers while viewing hundreds of acres of agricultural land, seasonally resplendent with coyotes, rabbits, soaring hawks, nesting magpies, and cows grazing and sometimes calving.
Our property has a hot tub shared with the owner's, adjacent to the owner's home, which sits in a secluded, outdoor space, allowing the contemplation of sunrise, bird flight, cloud shift, stars and moon. Don one of the boxcar bathrobes and your flip flops and take a dip.
Quiet, private and on a dead-end road, some call the boxcar a sanctuary. We are located in Ranchos de Taos, 3.5 miles from the Taos Plaza, and just 40 minutes from the Taos Ski Valley. Come experience a bit of old railroad lore while visiting our beloved Taos, New Mexico.
Jean and Steve are wonderful hosts and have done an excellent job refurbishing the boxcar and making it cozy and comfortable. All the amenities we needed were there and it’s an easy drive into town. Plus the views are amazing! We had a wonderful, relaxing stay and are already planning to go back.
The pastries and coffee were a great start in the mornings, followed by a relaxing soak in the clawfoot tub watching the horses play in the pasture and an occasional hot air balloon climbing and descending in the distance. Evenings were quiet and peaceful. All the essentials were provided and the hosts were very accommodating in making my stay enjoyable.
Our stay in the boxcar was great. It was so cute and private. Taos is a very interesting place to visit. Our host was wonderful. She was very helpful and friendly, as was her husband. I highly recommend anyone going to this area, give it a try. You won’t be disappointed ! John and Karen
The boxcar was so cute and had everything you would need. Clawfoot bathtub with the panoramic view was a bonus. Jean and Steven are delightful and caring. This is a great place for a get away or hiking adventure. Highly recommend and am planning on returning next year.
The boxcar is very well insulated, clean, and very well equipped. The hosts are very friendly and available for anything. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience and wouldn't change a thing. We cooked full meals each night and had no issue (there's a two burner stove, microwave, pots, pans, plates, etc.). Location is perfect for running around during the day and returning to rest. Beautiful views and couldn't recommend this place enough!
I found the train car to be just as promised! It was comfortable, well appointed, clean, and safe. Joan and Steve welcomed me warmly, they are lovely hosts. I would definitely stay again!
Hosts are the best, welcoming yet not overcrowding, present to your needs but also great awareness of the peace that nature calls for and that guests will benefit from. Absolutely adorable boxcart with all amenities and attention to details. Walks by the surrounding rio.
The space is small but has everything you need. The owner is the most hospitable host of any vacation rental we have ever stayed in! Great stay!
Our time at the boxcar was absolutely perfect! Jean and Steve were as accommodating as come be. It was my husband and I with our 18 month old son and pup. Jean left toys with us and a high chair, just what we needed! Along with leaving some stuff in the fridge for us and checking to make sure we were doing well, they did everything we could ever hope for. Plus the location was beautiful and the baths were amazing with the view. 5 star rating from us!
Easy to find, very comfortable and we will be black. .
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Includes taxes and fees