Entire home

Bright Star Compound in Arroyo Seco ~ Halfway Between Taos Plaza and Ski Valley

Photo gallery for Bright Star Compound in Arroyo Seco ~ Halfway Between Taos Plaza and Ski Valley

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Outdoor spa tub
Combined shower/tub, hair dryer, towels, soap
Interior
Dining

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 184200 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Hot tub
    Hot tub
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFi

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Bright Star Compound in Arroyo Seco ~ Halfway Between Taos Plaza and Ski Valley

----- 2 Master Bedroom Suites / 2 Full Kitchens / Courtyard, Patio, Deck, Covered Portal -----

Bright Star Casa & Casita is in the Arroyo Seco/Des Montes area on a high mesa with wrap-around mountain views.

Located half way between Taos Plaza and Taos Ski Valley, it is 9 miles to the plaza and 11 miles to the lifts, making it ideal for a vacation at any time of the year.

This property has spectacular 360 degree views of the Taos area mountain ranges and the desert plains to the west. In the distance, one can see the Rio Grande rift.

Bright Star includes a Casa (sleeps 14) and a Casita (sleeps 4) and both are under one roof.

To rent the Casa without the Casita, search for HomeAway #4628225.

A 7- person, 16-jet hot tub has a great view of the mountains to the East, and there is ample parking for 12 or more cars. There are 2 covered car ports under the 440 square foot partially covered Casita deck. It has a kiva fireplace and offers spectacular 360 degree views of the entire Taos county mountains and plains.

The property occupies two and a half acres of land, and has a lovely acequia (irrigation watercourse) which winds through the property. When the acequia is running, which is early spring into late summer, there is a small pond on the south end that is separately fenced for the benefit of the horses which frequently graze there.

The observatory on the property is operated remotely over the internet and images from the observatory are on the walls. High definition digital copies of these images are free to guests. This is a perfect location with very dark skies for you to bring your own telescope.

Bright Star Casa is a southwestern-style stucco, one story home with traditional Taos blue-trimmed windows. Arroyo Seco and neighboring Arroyo Hondo are charming ranching communities with historic roots in the Spanish Land Grant system. The Casa is within walking distance to Arroyo Seco on a rural road which passes an old Penitente cemetery and the back of Julia Roberts’ 50-acre ranch.

This spacious adobe hacienda was built in the mid ‘90s of hand-made adobe blocks covered with stucco. The resulting 12” thick adobe walls provide excellent insulation summer and winter, and keep inside temperatures relatively cool in the summer. (Summer temperatures in Arroyo Seco average 4 degrees cooler than temps in Taos.) The house features Spanish colonial corbels and lintels, romantic arches, flagstone, brick and timber. The ceilings are roughhewn logs, called vigas, layered with pine slats, called latillas. The radiant-heated floors are Saltillo tile.

On the exterior, the 3000 square foot house features a 500 square foot courtyard off the long hall, portals (covered entrances), and a kitchen patio with a kiva fireplace and a dining table for 6.

Bright Star Casa sleeps up to 14, with 2 king bedrooms and a bedroom with 2 twin beds which can also be made up as a king. An additional 8 folding mattresses (4” thick) with cots sleep up to 8 adults or children. Adults usually find them comfortable too. The cots that hold the mattresses are a spacious 30" x 76" x18" and are rated for a 330 pound person. The picture gallery includes an image of a cot with mattress. These are amazingly comfortable to sleep on. Three bedrooms have an ensuite bathroom. The fourth bathroom is accessed from the hall for the convenience of all the guests.

Bright Star Casita is a recently constructed 1200 square foot Casita with great room and full-kitchen on the first floor, and a double-sink bathroom, large master bedroom, and laundry/closet on the second floor. The great room includes an island with 4 stools and a wood burning kiva fireplace. Both floors have viga/latilla ceilings. The 400 square foot bedroom has French doors to a large, partially-covered deck which features a wood burning kiva fireplace. The deck has spectacular mountain views. Bright cushions for the deck chairs can be found in the bedroom.

The Casita sleeps up to 4 with a king-bed in the bedroom, and a queen fold-out bed in the great room’s leather sofa. The fold-out has a comfortable memory foam mattress.

Other Amenities (available in both the Casa and Casita):
3 HD flat screen televisions, two in the Casa, a 60” in the spacious living room and a 50” in the Master Bedroom. The Casita has a 60” in the living room/kitchen. 23 local channels and 110 internet channels are available over the high-speed fiber optic internet service. Programs include YouTube TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Peacock, providing a wide range of live sports, news, movies, TV Series, music and other entertainment.

The fiber optic 100mbit (up and down) internet also provides excellent WIFI connectivity throughout the Casa and Casita.

The Casa and Casita each have their own internet phone providing land-line quality phone service with unlimited free incoming and outgoing calls throughout the US. The cell phone coverage from most of the providers in the Arroyo Seco/Des Montes area is usable but not always reliable.

At night, guests enjoy starry skies over the Sangre de Christo Mountain Range. Bright Star is ideal for families and groups desiring to be together under one very Southwest roof for a true Taos experience!

Option for live music entertainment:
Billy Archuleta - Soloist Extraordinaire!
Music styles - Country Rock, Spanish, Blues, Gospel, Bolero, Reggee
Music for any occasion, Wedding, Birthday, Anniversary, Social Gathering, etc
Contract rate: $150/Hr.for first two hours, $100/hr after that.
Contact Info: wilparc54@yahoo.com (email) or 575-779-0109 (call or text) jj
Please contact at least 2 weeks in advance, thank you

Property manager

Jerry Macon

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Pool/Spa

  • Spa tub

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Memory foam mattress

Bathroom

  • 4 private bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Netflix
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Streaming services
  • Video game console

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Furnished patio
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Single level property
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Unlimited smartphone data usage

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • In the city center
  • In the mountains
  • Near a hospital
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Snow sports gear
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • 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)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 4,200 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

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

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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

We should mention

A car is required for transportation to and from this property

About the area

Map
El Prado, NM

What's nearby

  • Kit Carson Park - 14 min drive
  • Taos Pueblo - 15 min drive
  • Taos Mountain Casino - 15 min drive
  • Taos Plaza - 15 min drive
  • Earthships - 16 min drive

Getting around

  • Taos, NM (TSM-Taos Regional) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪KTAOS Solar Center - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Sabroso - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Medley - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Toribios - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Bright Star Compound in Arroyo Seco ~ Halfway Between Taos Plaza and Ski Valley pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Bright Star Compound in Arroyo Seco ~ Halfway Between Taos Plaza and Ski Valley?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Bright Star Compound in Arroyo Seco ~ Halfway Between Taos Plaza and Ski Valley?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Bright Star Compound in Arroyo Seco ~ Halfway Between Taos Plaza and Ski Valley located?

This family-friendly Taos vacation home is located on a river, 1.8 mi (3 km) from Rottenstone Pottery, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Carson National Forest and Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area. KTAOS Solar Center and Millicent Rogers Museum are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Bright Star Compound in Arroyo Seco ~ Halfway Between Taos Plaza and Ski Valley Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 92 out of 95 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 95 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 95 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 95 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 95 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

michael c.

Liked: Cleanliness
Open air and views for miles!
Wonderful property nestled in a quiet, view-filled neighborhood. The house itself is very roomy, and adorned with local architecture. The property manager was always just a call away and helpful with any questions, she was fantastic. They helped customize our stay for a large group, and were greatly accommodating. Thanks again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stacey O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend getaway
Nice place to stay. Beautiful home
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Felix B., Sacramento

Liked: Cleanliness
Outstanding
Large and plenty of room for all of us. We had daily dinners that included many family members locally and there was plenty of room for all. The bedrooms were large and comfortable.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Terrye H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wedding Week
Wow what a fabulous house! Best stocked VRBO we ever stayed in and we stay in them often. The beds super comfortable including the cots. The kitchen was stocked above and beyond my expectations. Love that they had seasonings! The views were amazing and we had an after wedding family party there and used all the outdoor areas. I just cannot say enough. Our family will remember and talk about this week forever
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Ski Trip.
Everything was great. Especially house being warm and inviting.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

George F., Houston

Liked: Cleanliness
Best of the best
A fabulous house with great views and spotless when you arrive. Host is very friendly and helpful.
Stayed 13 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Merrie F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Comfortable and well equipped
The house was comfortable and well equipped. The lighting in the house is lacking! Thank goodness there were the floor lamps to help with that situation! The location was not what I expected. It was a little difficult to find, but once we did it was easy to navigate to Taos. Part of our group golfed at Angel Fire and it took them about an hour to get there. Just keep that in mind if you plan to golf or ski there. Overall, the house itself was just what we needed! We thoroughly enjoyed our time in the house.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ryan D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Taos Weekend
Great house, great location between Taos and Taos Ski Valley. Would come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Harbour W., Oklahoma City, OK USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Taos Times
Loved the adobe construction and the spacious New Mexico flavor of the house. We had ample room and everything in the house worked well. The house lacked only air-conditioning for hot July days. It would cool down at night though. We would come back again for sure but perhaps during cooler months.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brittany C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Place..Amazing Host!
Jerry's place was beautiful! Nicest place in Taos by far! Lots of space, clean and nicely decorated. The stars were amazing at night. The beds were super comfy. No air conditioning, but that is common in Taos and having the windows open at night was really nice. We were not able to use the hot tub but Jerry said a new cover had been ordered, so hope to come back and use that on our next stay. Jerry's communication was great! Location was easy to get too, not too far from town, but enough out of the way for great star gazing. Great views of the mountains too. We hope to be back soon! Kids had a blast too!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kau V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Casa and Casita for a big family vacation
Overall, great place. Amazing location. Good amenities. Great communication with the host. It would have been nice if there was some information for things to do around Arroyo Seco such as Taos cow, Soul cafe, etc. Also, we lost power for a couple of hours. some information on that might also be helpful as a heads up, to avoid getting candles and matchboxes in the dark. We really had a blast. Thank you to Jerry for such a wonderful trip.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dena O.

Liked: Cleanliness
A shining star among Vrbo’s!
We loved our time at Brightstar and will definitely return! This spacious home is beautifully decorated and well-stocked with everything we needed. The amazing photos of space were taken by the host and hung throughout the home. They were stunning! There’s plenty of places to gather together, and also areas for quiet retreat…A perfect combination!
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Martha H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful!
Wonderful property! The kitchen was fully stocked and there was not anything that we needed that we couldn’t find! Would definitely recommend this property if you are visiting Taos
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robyn B., Denver, CO

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property in a great location
This house was wonderful for our two families (4 adults and 5 kids) with plenty of space and comfortable furniture and amenities. The location is perfect for heading to the ski hill or town, and we enjoyed spending most evenings cooking at the house and stargazing. We would love to make this an annual trip and hope to stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Bright star bliss
Bright star compound was delightful. Jerry, the property owner was very accommodating. Since he didn’t have guests before he gave me an early check-in, which help me considerably get my children ready to go ski Taos ski Valley. The views from the home are lovely the owners artwork With the celestial photos were lovely. If I could give him a 10 out of five I would. Our state was fantastic. Would definitely stay there again thanks, Jerry.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kamran D., Blacklick, Ohio..around Columbus

Liked: Cleanliness
Very enchanted vacation home
The sunsets were stunning, the house was one of a kind beautiful
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elise K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Serene and beautiful
Just when you think Bright Star couldn't be any better, it is. The master bathroom is gorgeous even though it was pretty wonderful before it was remodeled. This house is my favorite place to stay in Taos. It is elegant and comfortable and about as perfect as it can get for friends and family.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
As Described
Exceeded expectations in every respect.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023

8/10 Good

Deltah H.

Ski Trip 2023
We love BrightStar‼️ It’s our second time to stay at this property.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

marguerite l.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family Christmas in Taos
This property is lovely and comfortable. The home and is well maintained and provides the comfort you desire when skiing, enjoying the beauty of the mountains, and visiting Taos. The kitchen is very well equipped for dining in. The management is available and wants guests to be comfortable. We look forward to gathering next Christmas for another family get together in Bright Star Compound.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Alissa D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Bright Star indeed
This property was lovely with great views. It’s a wonderful place for larger family gatherings, summer or winter. Plenty of space.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

George F., Houston

Liked: Cleanliness
Bright Star is a great house
There is lots of room, comfortable and very well equipped. The beds are comfortable and there are two patios for sunning and eating. We will be back next year.
Stayed 13 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nathan K.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Gem in Arroyo Seco
We had a wonderful time at this grand house. Plenty of space for the 8 of us and wonderful amenities.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

marylou b.

Liked: Cleanliness
Just as promised!
Property is very clean, a must for me and I was so happy! The furnishings are wonderful, full of color. Kitchen is well equipped for meal planning. Outdoor space was great. Overall I can't think of one negative.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jason s.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great spot
Stayed here for a fly fishing / disc golf trip with a bunch of friends and it was great.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022