upannaway team travels to Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve
A WILDERNESS WONDERLAND IN NEW MEXICO
We spent three unforgettable days at Vermejo, celebrating the one-year anniversary of upannaway! From catching our dinner ice fishing, to sharpening our aim in archery and sharpshooter sports, spending this weekend with our team and some sweet plus ones made every moment a cherished memory! We even unraveled a thrilling murder mystery!
Nestled in the heart of Northeastern New Mexico and Southern Colorado, Vermejo’s nature reserve and guest ranch is a sprawling paradise that spans over 550,000 acres.
“We LOVED our time at Vermejo. It was the perfect setting for our group gathering. Turner House provided us with the right amount of individual privacy but also ample gathering space where our group could feel like we were in someone’s personal house. Speaking of being a houseguest…the staff at Vermejo was a step above and ahead! They anticipated not only our needs but also our wants! William - at the bar, knew exactly what my drink order was and how I liked it prepared after my first order. He also knew I was willing to try new things and created cocktails based on what he knew I liked!” - Liz, upannaway Senior Travel Designer
Our experience here proved to be nothing short of magical. From thrilling outdoor activities to gourmet dining and unique excursions, Vermejo left an indelible mark on each of us. Adding an extra layer of enchantment to our stay was the exceptional staff at Vermejo. Their warmth, attentiveness, and genuine passion for ensuring an unforgettable experience were evident in every interaction. From the moment we arrived, the staff's dedication to hospitality elevated our journey, turning it into a seamless and delightful exploration of nature's wonders. Their knowledge, coupled with a genuine eagerness to share the beauty of the reserve, transformed each moment into an even more enriching encounter. Jason, Doug, Chef Giovanni, Theresa, Curtis, Rob, Haley, Palmer, and so many other staff at the property made us feel like family, and they are a huge testament to the level of hospitality at Vermejo.
“Ice fishing was an experience I never knew I needed! Spending three nights where cell phone service is spotty amongst my treasured colleagues and some of our plus ones meant more to me than I could have imagined.”
The unanimous sentiment among the group – Vermejo is a haven for those who cherish the great outdoors. The significant others that joined us all underscored Vermejo's unique allure. Caleb's fishing activities were his favorite, David appreciated the staff's passion and the property's rich history, Michael excelled in the wobble deck sharpshooter challenges, and Grant expressed great enthusiam for the unique ice fishing experience!
“Vermejo is a dream, even in chilly temps! The goal of Vermejo is that you are in your room indoors as little as possible, encouraging you to immerse yourself in nature. We embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly! Some of my favorite activities were learning how to shoot clay pigeons, and engaging in lively sharpshooter competition on the wobble deck – which was a testament to the incredible aim of the upannaway gals! Catching our trout for dinner ice fishing was so fun! I even accidentally gave my iPhone to the fishing gods when it fell into the hole in the ice, but they blessed me with catching the most fish of the group, so it worked out ;) - Katherine, upannaway Travel Designer + Operations Manager
Vermejo's commitment to "Connecting People with Nature" extends beyond guest experiences to conservation research and ecosystem restoration. The LEED-certified and solar-powered Castillo Lodge in the High Country exemplifies their dedication to eco-friendly practices.
Vermejo is ideal for multigenerational families, adventure seekers, and intimate retreats. Tours and activities, included in the rate, range from fishing and e-biking to sharpshooter challenges and culinary adventures. With a blend of history, wildlife, and conservation, Vermejo ensures there's something for everyone.
Chef Giovanni, with Italian influences, has brought new dimensions to Vermajo's cuisine. Guests can enjoy fresh bread and muffins each morning in the, and in-house-made pasta. The menus change constantly, offering diverse options. William, the bartender, adds to the experience with his extensive knowledge of wine and mixology.
“I could not think of a cooler place to go off-grid! You are truly in a remote paradise in Vermejo. Half a million acres to yourself, family, or friends! The food is absolutely incredible! Oh, and William makes the best drinks - I especially loved the “Cutthroat,” a gin-based cocktail named after a type of Trout.” - Anderson, upannaway Travel Designer
“So much to love about Vermejo, but being able to unplug and spend quality time with the best company along with the friendliest staff made this trip so special. I have not laughed so hard in a long time! From ice fishing, learning to shoot clay, solving a murder, and eating until I couldn’t move, Vermejo really has it all!” - Natalie, upannaway’s Senior Coordinator
Our “Jazz, Gin, Money, and Murder” event unfolded within the walls of Casa Grande - the turn-of-the-century manor nestled on Vermejo's historic and stately grounds – a venue that sets the stage for a Gatsbyesque affair. The ambiance is a delightful fusion of roaring 20s revelry and Hollywood Golden Era glamour, complete with music, drama, and a journey back in time. The program can accommodate up to 20 in-character players and additional party observers, or “onlookers.” They had costume props and character booklets to help set the scene. After some drinks and hors d'oeuvres, a shot rang out, and we dove into the investigation, interacting with the detective, engaging with fellow partygoers, and deciphering the evidence to unearth the motive and murderer. We had an absolute blast!
David was the only one to correctly guess the “murderer”, and there were awards for best dressed and best actor! The staff played their characters incredibly well and really added to the fun of the night!
Location and Accessibility: Nestled between the Great Plains and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Vermejo offers a diverse and picturesque landscape. Despite its secluded location, the ranch is just a 4-hour drive from Denver Airport, making it an accessible retreat for those craving a quick escape into nature.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Vermejo's commitment to "Connecting People with Nature" extends beyond guest experiences to conservation research and ecosystem restoration. The LEED-certified and solar-powered Castillo Lodge in the High Country exemplifies their dedication to eco-friendly practices.
“I’m smitten with this spot! If you’re trying to reconnect– with yourself, with nature, with your significant other, with your family - Vermejo IS THE SPOT! Eight hours a day in your room is all you’ll need, surrounded by acres of beauty.””
It’s no wonder to us that readers of Travel & Leisure voted Vermejo to receive the World’s Best in the West Award! The special place beckons those seeking a sanctuary where the wild meets hospitality. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse activities, and commitment to conservation, Vermejo stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of adventure and luxury in the heart of nature. The memories forged in these vast acres will undoubtedly linger, creating a tapestry of moments that define Vermejo as a wilderness wonderland for the soul.
