El Rey Court
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Expert Review: El Rey Court
El Rey Court in Santa Fe, New Mexico, a property recognized with a Michelin Key, offers a unique blend of historic motor court charm and modern boutique sensibilities. Guests consistently highlight its distinctive design, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
El Rey Court generally receives a very positive reception, with guests frequently describing it as "hip new and quirky" and a "beautifully reimagined boutique hotel". The atmosphere, cleanliness, and friendly service are consistently praised, contributing to an overall experience that is often rated as "Excellent". It's seen as an inspiring oasis for modern travelers, blending vintage charm with contemporary comfort.
2. Key Highlights
Guests particularly love El Rey Court's unique aesthetic, which honors its origins as a 1936 roadside motor court on historic Route 66 while incorporating modern Southwest design. The property spans five acres of beautiful, sprawling gardens, offering ample space for relaxation and discovery. Key amenities include a seasonally heated outdoor pool, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, and a sauna. The on-site La Reina bar and the presence of various food trucks also stand out as popular features, creating a lively atmosphere. El Rey Court is also noted for being pet-friendly.
3. Room Quality
El Rey Court boasts 86 uniquely designed rooms and suites, meaning no two are identical, offering a different experience with each stay. Rooms feature traditional Southwest decor, including original artwork, antique furniture, adobe architecture, wood beams, and patterned flooring. Modern comforts are integrated, such as complimentary WiFi, Bluetooth Tivoli speakers, and flat-screen TVs with DirecTV. Many rooms offer fireplaces (including traditional kiva fireplaces), additional seating areas, and private outdoor spaces or patios. While standard rooms are described as cozy and comfortable, some guests note they may not be overly large due to the original motel floor plan.
4. Dining Experience
The dining experience at El Rey Court is characterized by its relaxed and social offerings. La Reina, the hotel's bar, specializes in tequila and mezcal cocktails and serves wood-fired pizza, often accompanied by live music. A significant highlight for many guests is the presence of on-site food trucks. "Tender Fire Kitchen" frequently offers wood-fired pizzas on weekends, while the "Turquoise Trailer" serves breakfast items, coffee, and juices from Thursday through Monday. Guests have praised the quality of the breakfast food and the convenience of the food trucks. The hotel also provides a free "on-the-go" breakfast each morning.
5. Service & Staff
The staff at El Rey Court consistently receives high marks for their hospitality. Guests describe them as "friendly," "helpful," "efficient," and "pleasant and attentive". Many appreciate the staff's "cool, competent and happy to be there" demeanor, which contributes to the welcoming and laid-back ambiance of the property.
6. Location & Accessibility
Located at 1862 Cerrillos Road, El Rey Court sits on the original alignment of Route 66. It is conveniently situated about 2.6 miles from the center of Santa Fe and popular attractions such as the Santa Fe Plaza. Other nearby points of interest include the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum (less than 3 miles away) and Meow Wolf. While Cerrillos Road is a bustling area with other local businesses and eateries, it is not considered particularly pedestrian-friendly. However, ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available, and the hotel offers free parking, including some covered areas, making it accessible for those traveling by car.
7. Value & Pricing
El Rey Court offers competitive pricing within Santa Fe, with rates starting from around $102 for a Queen room. The average weeknight price is approximately $177, while weekend nights average $164. January is typically the cheapest month to stay, with December being the most expensive. Guests often perceive it as an excellent value, especially when compared to the average room prices in Santa Fe. It's important to note that an amenity fee of $20 per day applies.
8. Common Complaints
Despite widespread positive feedback, some recurring criticisms include noise levels, which can stem from traffic on Cerrillos Road or from neighboring rooms. Some guests have also commented on certain rooms feeling "outdated" or having "dark bathrooms," with suggestions for improved lighting. Issues with parking and amenities have also been mentioned as impacting the overall value for price for some guests.
