Saturday, my last day in Santa Fe, (for this trip anyway!) My flight out of Albuquerque wasn’t until late afternoon so Leslie and I decided to take the “long way”. After running a few errands we left Santa Fe around 10 a.m. and headed to “the ranch”.  The ranch is the home of Schenck Southwest Publishing. It is the year-round home of Billy Schenk and the Santa Fe summer home of my friend from Scottsdale, Mark McDowell. The peaceful property is about 20 minutes south of town but feels much further. There are a couple of homes that were built on the property over 80 years ago that have been lovingly preserved and, in some cases, added on to creating wonderful, rambling haciendas. Leslie and I  were treated to a private tour of the ranch and the homes. The one-of-a-kind and antique furniture in the homes was amazing! There is also a newer building that is an office and Mark’s studio/home that is in the processes of being completed. The views of the valley are stunning. It was the kind of place that you are in no hurry to leave but we had more to do on the way to the airport.

We headed out to start our trip to Albuquerque via the Turquoise Trail. Our first stop was in the old mining town of Cerrillos. We stopped for the scenic overlook and could have spent an hour or so exploring the old museum and other sites but we wanted to get to Madrid for lunch. Madrid is a historic mining town turned funky art town. As we pass the city limits we saw a gypsy festival going on in a little valley with people dressed up and dancing. I say they were “dressed up” for all I know they could have been a band of real gypsies! The highway is lined with old buildings and homes most of which have been restored and are now little restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries and studios. We decided to have lunch at the  Mine Shaft Tavern known for their great burgers.  Fortunately we arrived with time to spare because it took about 45 minutes for us to be served. Our buffalo burgers were excellent although by the time we were served we were so hungry that buffalo jerky would probably have tasted like Kolbe beef! Side note, Madrid is where Wild Hogs was filmed and there are plenty of bikers around. It is a very colorful, fun town.

Albuquerque is only about 45 minutes from Madrid. The drive was very easy and we didn’t hit any traffic until we hit I40 which is only about 10 minutes from the airport.

Thanks to Leslie, my Santa Fe trip was unforgettable and I feel like I know Santa Fe a little more like a local! I can’t wait to go back and learn more. I have always wanted people who participate in my Scottsdale tours to feel like they have lived here for a short period of time. This trip has confirmed that and will help me continue to keep that as our primary focus.

Oh, yes I did finally get that map of Santa Fe on Wednesday!

Ace Bailey