Luxury skiing and spa breaks in New Mexico

If Santa Fe in New Mexico conjures up pictures of hot winter sun and cactus trees then holidaymakers should think again.

With cold winters and thick snow, the New Mexico state capital is in fact a ski destination well worth considering for an adventurous and original winter break.

Among the oldest cities in the US, Santa Fe was founded in the early 1600s by Spanish settlers.

Modern-day Santa Fe still retains some of its historic buildings and layout in its downtown area, giving visiting winter sports enthusiasts plenty to do when not on the mountains, from visiting museums, cathedrals and palaces to bars, restaurants and a casino.

To welcome holidaymakers Santa Fe has launched several special deals for the winter season that range from discounts on accommodation and restaurants to excursions.

Luxury ski and spa resort Bishop's Lodge, in northern New Mexico, has three different packages for holidaymakers dependent on whether you want to use the spa facilities, go skiing or do both.

Located in a forest valley in the mountains, the hotel has an award-winning spa and offers plenty of opportunities for enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area with miles of trails for hiking and horse riding.

Prices start from $289 (around £150) per night based on two sharing for the skiing only package, $399 (around £205) per night for the spa only package, and $499 (around £255) for both, includes all taxes, gratuities, and resort fees.

For more information on Bishop's Lodge see www.bishopslodge.com

Also offering special winter packages and luxury accommodation is the La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa, located in Santa Fe's downtown area.

The hotel's skiing package, available until April 14th 2007, has a 20 per cent discount and costs $190 (around £100) per person.

The package includes two nights' accommodation, two half-day lift tickets per person at the Ski Santa Fe resort, one 60-minute massage, lunch for two the hotel's restaurant and resort fees.

Throughout February 2007 the hotel is also offering a two-night romantic Valentine's break, with a deluxe accommodation, a five-course dinner with champagne, a 50-minute couple's massage.

For more information see www.rockresorts.com

For more information about Santa Fe see www.santafe.org

Return flights to Albuquerque (around an hour's drive from Santa Fe) with British Airways cost £455 from London Gatwick via Travelbag.co.uk