We just completed an excellent 4 night stay to celebrate a milestone anniversary, our first stay at this resort. We booked using a Diamond suite upgrade to a Junior Suite, but were informed at check-in that they had upgraded us to one of the 2 VIP suites ("Blue Maiden Suite") at the resort. They also gave us a nice box of truffles as an anniversary gift. Several employees at the property told us 4212 was their favorite suite, even compared with the Presidential suite, because of the spectacular view of the pools and rock formations by the stables. It was about triple the size of a standard room with dining table for 6, living area with gas fireplace, wetbar with fridge, microwave, coffee maker with bean grinder, and Nespresso machine, 3 separate balconies, large walk-in closet, and beautiful bathroom with Jacuzzi tub and separate shower and half guest bath.

We noted some similarities between this property and Lost Pines Resort and were told that Tamaya's former manager had left to open Lost Pines. Unlike Lost Pines, the self parking is very convenient. Even so, the valets regularly drive through the lot to transport you to the front entrance. Also, they've done a good job of keeping the bike traffic off the hotel sidewalks and on the nice trails through the bosque and down to the river. Curiously, the river pool is nothing like the Lazy River pools at the Lost Pines or Hill Country. It is just a river shaped pool that does not make a continuous loop. They also have a Hummingbird garden that really attracts a lot of hummingbirds!

We really were impressed with the beauty of the landscaping in the high desert environment. They used a variety of what appeared to be native plants, and had an herb garden that is used by the hotel chefs. We enjoyed all the birds and bunnies we saw on the property.

texmanufan will be happy to know that they do still burn the cedar-pinon incense. We noticed it upon arrival, but not on the subsequent days. Either we got used to it, or they don't burn it every day.

All the staff members were very friendly and responsive to all our needs. After we got settled in, we were surprised with a complimentary delivery of a nice cheese, cracker, nut and fruit tray and a luscious slice of chocolate with "Happy Anniversary" written around the plate and a card signed by all the employees we had encountered since our arrival. Wow! We topped off our stay with a delicious dinner at the Corn Maiden sitting at the Chef's counter. They are currently offering a good Prix Fixe menu with your choice of 4 Tapas paired with 2 different glasses of wine and a trio of creme brulees for $55. This was really a great choice for our anniversary celebration, and I think we will probably return.