This vacation home is located 1.2 mi (1.9 km) from Sandia Foothills Open Space and within a 10-minute drive of Hinkle Family Fun Center. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.
Kirtland Air Force Base - 12 min drive - 7.3 miles
University of New Mexico - 15 min drive - 11.0 miles
Getting around
Alvarado Transportation Center - 17 min drive
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) - 21 min drive
Restaurants
Maverik - 7 min drive
McDonald's - 8 min drive
McDonald's - 5 min drive
Circle K - 7 min drive
Olive Garden - 7 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Mountain house 18 minutes from ABQ airport
Desert Mountain Retreat is a contemporary southwestern home nestled in the foothills of the Sandia & Manzano Mountains. Recently renovated, Desert Mountain is at once modern yet traditional, reflecting the deep history of New Mexican architecture & style, with contemporary design elements. Our home is surrounded by mountains & high desert with plenty of space & hiking trails, yet only 18 minutes to the airport, 12 minutes to downtown, and 5 minutes to grocery stores & other services.
THE SPACE
Feel remote without being remote.
Desert Mountain Retreat sits on over 1 acre of land, backing up to wilderness with miles of hiking & wildlife, yet only minutes from services and other Albuquerque destinations. Our unique location - in the mouth of the Tijeras canyon dividing two alpine mountain ranges, yet right off I-40 that runs right through town - lets you have it both ways: A remote mountain house feel, yet minutes from the highway and everything in Albuquerque.
Inside are three distinct living spaces: In opposing sides of the home are the master suite & guest wing, creating space & privacy for those sharing the house. Both meet together in the large open floor plan common area with kitchen, dining area, craft cocktail bar setup, lounge, and living room area with a large TV, gas fireplace, and 180 degree views of the surrounding mountains. A full office, perfect for remote work, separates the two bedroom areas.
Outside are multiple sitting areas overlooking the mountains surrounding the house, patio with outdoor sofa chairs, and Adirondack chairs with a 70 mile view into the Rio Grande Valley. Catch a perfect New Mexican sunset, watch monsoon thunderstorms roll across the city below, or enjoy the stars in the dark night sky above.
*We offer a Hot Spring hot tub as well as an added service upon request (no fee), but due to water restrictions in the area and time it takes to drain & refill if necessary, we are not able to make it available for each stay. All requests for use are considered on a first-come basis, so we suggest contacting us as soon as possible to determine availability, as we cannot guarantee that the hot tub will be available unless confirmed prior.*
Our home is a "smart home:"
• Easily control lighting by room or by house with the double-click of a wall switch • Low-energy LED & smart bulbs keeping energy consumption minimal • Keyless entry with individual guest code for ease & security • High speed Wifi (consistent, with download speeds over 100mbps)
Throughout the house, thoughtfully chosen design elements blend old world New Mexican charm, desert southwest minimalism, and contemporary deign features:
KITCHEN/LOUNGE/DINING:
• Gorgeous granite countertops with patterns resembling the mountains outside • Custom walnut bar top, island, & plant wall • Craft cocktail setup & vintage stemware (alcohol not included) • Gas range & oven • Oversized sink with touch-activated faucet • High-end appliances including KitchenAid mixer, Ninja blender, Instant Pot, Breville smart oven, & more • Coffee setup with choice of Keurig or drip coffee - pods included for your convenience • Cooking necessities from avocado & olive oil to gourmet spices, hot sauces, & more. • High end cookware featuring plenty of pots & pans (nonstick, cast iron, stainless steel) & utensils (basting brushes, spatulas, etc.) • Crate & Barrel dinnerware • Comfortable leather barstools & luxurious lounge chairs for after-dinner cocktails • 6 person dining room table overlooking the mountains • Wireless phone charger
LIVING ROOM:
• Comfy sectional with chaise lounge - plenty of space for family & friends • LG smart TV with Netflix login and connected Apple TV • Gas fireplace (seasonal) operated easily by wall switch • Southwestern blankets for cozy nights by the fire • Real cacti & succulents, bringing the desert indoors
MASTER SUITE:
• King bed • Over-sized windows - wake up to desert wildlife • Jacuzzi tub • Modern backlit & anti-fog mirrors • Dual shower • Dual vanity • Extra towels & linens • Rotating selection of invigorating shampoos, conditioners, & body soaps • Spa bath products (e.g., eucalyptus oil spray for shower, bubble bath, lotions) • Large sliding barn door for privacy • Skylight for natural lighting • Blow dryer • Wireless charging stations (bedside)
2ND/3RD BEDROOMS & BATH SUITE:
• Queen bed in each bedroom • Dual vanity with large backlit, anti-fog mirror • Shower/bath combo (kid friendly) • Rotating selection of invigorating shampoos, conditioners, & body soaps • Spa bath products (e.g., essential oils, lotions) • Skylight for natural lighting • Additional half-bath for convenience • Pack 'n Play for those traveling with a small child • Phone/device charging station (bedside)
FULL OFFICE
• Large wood desk with office chair overlooking the mountains • Smart TV • Fully separate space, with dedicated WiFi satellite - perfect for remote work • Wireless phone charger
LAUNDRY
• High-capacity front-loading washer & dryer • Stocked with Tide, OxiClean, & stain remover • In-wall ironing board with iron • Utility sink
OUTDOORS
• Weber BBQ grill • Fenced rear terrace with Adirondack chairs • Amazingly comfortable CB3 outdoor sofa chairs • Dual Adirondack chairs on the front porch with 70 mile view into the Rio Grande Valley and the city of Albuquerque, extending to Mt. Taylor & the San Juan mountains in the distance.
ACCESS, GATE, & PARKING
• Security gate (code provided before check-in) • Large driveway with parking for 5 cars • Space for a trailer (consult with us for sizing needs before booking) • All paved roads (many mountain houses are accessible only via gravel)
GUEST ACCESS
Guests have access to the entire house, except for locked storage areas including the master bedroom closet & garage, used to store personal property.
HOUSE RULES & NOTICES
• No more than 6 guests • No more than 4 daytime visitors who are not registered guests. Daytime visitors may not stay overnight • No pets • No parties or events • No fireworks • No fires: Please note we are currently not allowing outdoor fires because of frequent fire restrictions and high wind • Amazon packages sent to the house/address unfortunately often get delivered to a locked mailboxes that guests do not have access to. If you would like Amazon packages delivered, it's best to have them delivered to Whole Foods or another location for pickup. • Security camera outside the front door monitoring the parking and entrance areas, including noise detection. • No access to the hot tub or hot tub area without prior approval (see notes above) • Areas not accessible to guests: Locked cabinet, master closet, & garage - all used to store owner personal property • No local overnight guests (guests who reside within 50 miles of the property) • Must be 25 years of age to book • No smoking on property or consuming Illegal substances of any kind (inside or outside). We should note that, because the house is in a private community, there are no public spaces in the neighborhood where is smoking is permitted (e.g., the streets, sidewalks, etc). As such, this property is likely not suitable for smokers. • No moving furniture or appliances • Guests must maintain property in reasonably clean & orderly conditions (e.g., no trash left out, spills & messes cleaned up) • Must obey house occupancy limits • Home must be secured by locking all doors and windows anytime you leave the home • Reservations over 28 days may require security deposit, background and credit check, and are subject to approval. • For stays over 28 days, a monthly cleaning fee will be applied • Guest agrees to report any issues at home to Host immediately. • Your safety matters. There may be a Noise-Aware anti-party device or similar devices at the home. • Winter weather: We are located in the mountains, and do get occasional winter weather. Because ours is a private community, there are not snow removal services. Snow often melts quickly and rarely do we get "snowed in," but it does happen. While we are happy to try and arrange private snow removal services, we can't guarantee they will be available. As such, please watch the weather, plan vehicles accordingly, and have backup plans if snow does inhibit travel!
Please note: There are multiple real cactuses & succulents in the house, some of which have very sharp spines. Please do not touch any of the plants, and keep children away from the plants as well.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2.5 bathrooms, and a patio. There's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. The bathroom offers a jetted tub and hair dryers. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.
Similar properties
Mountain Views, Backyard Trail Access, 3 King Beds
Mountain Views, Backyard Trail Access, 3 King Beds
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
General
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
Unit size: 3,000 square feet
Water-efficient showers
Water-efficient toilets
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
- If adjusted, return central heat to 63, and wall thermostats (heat) in each room to 55. Or, if using AC, return to 78. Be sure “fan” on thermostat is set to “auto”
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
No access to the hot tub or hot tub area without prior approval
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do close to this vacation home?
This vacation home is located in Albuquerque, close to Kirtland Air Force Base, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, and Sandia Foothills Open Space. Hinkle Family Fun Center is also within a driving distance of 4.3 mi.
Is there parking available at this vacation home?
Yes, there is a garage.
Is this vacation home associated with a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, this vacation home doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.
Is Mountain house 18 minutes from ABQ airport good for couples?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this vacation home include a fireplace, a jetted bathtub, and a kitchen.
Are there hot tubs at Mountain house 18 minutes from ABQ airport?
Yes, this vacation home has a spa tub.
Does this vacation home provide breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this vacation home.
How close is the airport from this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), which is 13.4 mi away (21 minutes by car).
Can I book a room with a balcony at Mountain house 18 minutes from ABQ airport?
Yes, every accommodation at Mountain house 18 minutes from ABQ airport comes with a deck.
Reviews
Mountain house 18 minutes from ABQ airport Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
10/10
Cleanliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 12 out of 13 reviews
10 - Excellent
12
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 13 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 13 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 13 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 13 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer M.
Jun 14, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Getaway with Stunning Views
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful home to celebrate my mom’s 75th birthday! The house was spotless, beautifully maintained, and offered stunning views and sunsets that made the trip even more memorable. The owner was incredibly attentive, checking in regularly to ensure we had everything we needed. My mom truly enjoyed her stay, and we couldn’t have asked for a better place to celebrate such a special occasion. Highly recommend and would love to stay here again!
Jennifer M.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Emily N.
Mar 23, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing house and property
This house was amazing. The beds were very comfortable. The kitchen was beyond well-stocked. It is a great place for relaxation, as it is right next to the mountains and is very private. The owner was very responsive. There are trails into the mountains from the top of the neighborhood. The only negative is the smart lighting, which is a little annoying, as others have noted. But...that is not a big negative.
Emily N.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lisa S.
Feb 12, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Spectacular
We were delighted with the entire experience. There are beautiful views out of every window. The home is comfortable and beautiful.
Lisa S.
Stayed 20 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Robert D.
Oct 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Balloon Festival. And exploring
Excellent stay with two other coiples all Navy Veteran friends. Love the house, the amenities, and the surrounding area. Close to main transportation routes so easy to get anywhere in the ABQ and Santa Fe area.
Robert D.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Philip T., England
Sep 6, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Location
Enjoyed our stay very much. Lovely property in great location with wonderful views.
Highly recommended.
Philip T.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Tina L.
Aug 27, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful escape
This home was exactly as advertised. Very spacious home in quiet neighborhood with amazing views! Communication was great the host replied quickly. Check in/out were easy. We loved the location right off the highway making it easy to get to where we wanted to go.
We enjoyed our stay and would def book again if we came back to the area.
Tina L.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
8/10 Good
Ryan F.
Jun 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful house with quite a view!
The house was wonderful and worked very well for our family. The neighborhood is quiet and secluded from the city hubbub but it is only a short drive to all the great area attractions. Love the scenery in the area and the house has some amazing views out the large windows in the living and dining areas. The lights in the house are a little tricky to get the hang of initially but we eventually figured things out! The host has a video that certainly helps to view a couple of times in this regard! The only negative was that the living and dining area get a bit warm but I imagine most of that is due to the enormous windows and the intense Sun scorching the house. Would absolutely consider staying again if we visit the are in the future!
Ryan F.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Pat H.
May 28, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
5 Stars
We had a wonderful time and enjoyed the gorgeous space and view of both the sunrise and sunsets. We would definitely go back again!
Pat H.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Karen A.
Apr 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Exceptional home in a beautiful location
We spent a week at this property and enjoyed every aspect of this home and location. The home is gorgeous, very well stocked, and incredibly comfortable. The owner is super responsive and checks in occasionally to make sure everything is going well. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets everyday; close to everything; quiet neighborhood. It was a wonderful place to return to after a day of exploring!
Karen A.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sandra C.
Feb 12, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
“The mansion”
The house was beautifully designed, impeccably decorated and located in a serene mountain setting with gorgeous views from every window.
It is the perfect place for a family get together or a happy celebration or both.
Sandra C.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
Nolan H.
Jan 19, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Best Place to Spend your Trip
Overall this was an incredible property and was exactly what I needed for this trip. I could not imagine staying somewhere else. The host leaves great little notes to help you through your trip and is always checking in to make sure you have everything you need. It is the best spot to wake up, fall asleep, and even spend some time during the day just enjoying.
Nolan H.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2024
10/10 Excellent
david e.
Jan 2, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful house overlooking Albuquerque
We rented this place with our 3 adult children over Christmas and the pictures don't do it justice. The house was beautiful well laid out and tastefully furnished. the owner was excellent to deal with and helpful. It's a quiet area and easy to drive to anywhere you want to go. Stayed around Albuquerque many times and this place is wonderful. Thanks for the opportunity to stay at your place
david e.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Renee B.
Oct 9, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome House
Stayed here for balloon fiesta and to ride our e-bikes in the desert. House was amazing and clean and wonderful. Host was easy to reach and helpful. Highly highly recommend!!