Not the typical hotel, not the typical hotel owners.
Welcome to the Columbine Inn located in Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico. The Columbine Inn is locally owned and operated by Paul & Susie Geilenfeldt. We purchased the lodge in 1999 after quitting our jobs and pursuing a dream of owning a mountain lodge in a world-class ski resort. We stayed at the Columbine Inn numerous times prior to purchasing and one day started talking with the previous owner. We found he was nearing retirement and was interested in selling the lodge. We quit our stable jobs, sold our house, purchased the lodge with our life savings and moved from Albuquerque to Taos Ski Valley. We took the handcrafted timber-frame structure, added some TLC and turned it into a classic mountain lodge. The type of lodge that reminds us of the ski lodges our families would visit when we were young. We knew nothing about the hotel business, but our philosophy has been the same since we started; treat the customer right, provide great customer service, provide a clean and comfortable room at a reasonable price, provide a unique experience, listen to guests and continuously update the property.
It also helps to have a pristine, mountain setting. We would visit the Taos area for the world-class skiing, crowd-free hiking, low key atmosphere and incredible beauty. The Taos mountains provide an endless supply of outdoor recreation, but the area has a very relaxed feel that allows you to truly unwind.
We are not afraid to offer something different from the traditional hotel experience. We’re curious, imaginative and friendly, and we think a hotel should have personality and character. Our goal is to provide a welcoming, unique and unexpected experience that makes you want to return year after year.
We sincerely appreciate everyone's business and we look forward to your visit.
Paul & Susie Geilenfeldt