The Dobson House--Famous Taos Earthship

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Entire home

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Dates

December 2024

January 2025

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom3 bathroomsSleeps 4604 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available

Air conditioning

Kitchen

Fireplace

Outdoor space

Parking included

Explore the area

Arroyo Hondo, NM

Manby Hot Springs
4 min drive
John Dunn Bridge
13 min drive
Black Rock Hot Springs
14 min drive
Taos, NM (TSM-Taos Regional)
15 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

Free WiFi

Outdoor space

Parking available

for 1 apartment

includes taxes & fees

6 Jan - 7 Jan

About this property

Entire place

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

Two beautiful bedroom suites are available in this magnificent 6,500-square-foot earthship. (See photos.) The second suite is automatically added for parties of 3-4. No matter the size, your guest party is the only one enjoying the house. Should your party of 2 want both suites, book for 3. The house sits high on a hill overlooking the majestic Rio Grande Gorge and is ringed by mountains. The two private suites occupy the entire lower level of the house which connects to the 300-degree-view living room and gourmet commercial kitchen via a grand underground staircase. Each adobe and Mexican-tiled suite has gorgeous views, a private patio, queen bed, sitting area, bathroom, mini fridge, microwave, and coffee and tea service. Access to wii-fi is in the lounge between suites, on the grand staircase, and in the living room and kitchen. Cook meals with upscale cookware and enjoy dining with magnificent views. Hike, bike, or snowshoe beautiful trails along the rim of the gorge right out your front door. A 10-minute hike from the house will bring you to breathtaking views of the canyon and Rio Grande 800-feet below. Mineral-rich hot springs and the John Dunn Bridge are a hike away. Gorgeous sunsets and starry skies await. This massive 6,500- square-foot earthship, exquisitely built for your privacy and connection with nature, requires a caretaker and my sweet dog, Ruby, and I have private quarters on premises to ensure your experience is fabulous. Wonderfully set off the beaten path, in inclement weather, vehicles with AWD or 4WD and good clearance are necessary.

Our customers tell us they can't get enough of this vacation home's great location. During your stay, you'll be within walking distance of Rio Grande. You'll find features like free WiFi in public areas and free self parking, plus concierge services. The vacation home offers free WiFi and a kitchen.

Air-conditioned home with kitchen, 2.5 bathrooms, and fireplace
Free WiFi
Free self parking
Services include a concierge
Onsite recreation includes mountain biking and hiking/biking trails
4.6 mi (7.4 km) from Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and 6.4 mi (10.3 km) from Carson National Forest

As a guest of this vacation home, you'll find a terrace, a garden, and concierge services. Public spaces have free WiFi. Self parking is free.

Property manager

Brenda Wilhelmson

Languages

English

Property amenities

Ski

Snowboarding, downhill skiing and cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

Free WiFi

Parking and transport

Free self-parking on site
On-site parking
Car required

Kitchen

Fridge (mini)
Stovetop
Microwave
Oven
Dishwasher
Coffee grinder
Paper towels
Spices
Electric kettle

Dining

Dining table

Bedrooms

1 bedroom
Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

2.5 bathrooms
Shower
Soap
Eco-friendly toiletries
Shampoo
Toilet paper
Hairdryer
Towels provided

Living spaces

Fireplace
Living room
Wood stove

Entertainment

Smart TV with cable/satellite service
Games
Stereo

Outdoor areas

Patio
Terrace
Garden
Garden
Outdoor furniture

Laundry

Near a laundromat

Comfort

Air conditioning
Heating

Pets

Service animals only (pets not allowed)

Suitability/Accessibility

If you have any requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Handrails in stairwells
No lifts
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Well-lit path to entrance
Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

Concierge services
Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

On the river
Near the airport
In the city centre
In the mountains
In a rural location
Near a hospital

Things to do

Snow sports gear
Mountain biking on site
Hiking/biking trails on site
Fishing nearby
Sledging nearby
Snowmobiling nearby
Wildlife and game walks nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Rock climbing nearby
Horse riding nearby
Kayaking nearby
Rafting nearby

Safety features

Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector installed (host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
First aid kit

General

At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
Humane treatment of captive wild animals
Local artist showcase
Local culture and ecosystem education
Locally owned and organised tours and activities
Unit size: 6500 sq ft (604 sq m)
Property does not allow children

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property

Guests will receive an email 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and an access code; your host will greet you

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Access methods

Access code, host will greet you

Pets

No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.

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; maximum attendees: 10

This property uses solar energy, plus a grey water recycling system

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 and a first aid kit

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

This property does not have a front desk. Guests will receive an email 24 hours before arrival with check-in information and an access code. The host will greet guests on arrival. You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account which will enable you to manage your booking.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property

The Dobson House--famous Taos Earthship Arroyo Hondo

The Dobson House--famous Taos Earthship Private vacation home

The Dobson House--Famous Taos Earthship Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10 Excellent

stephani B.

11 Dec 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Much needed Getaway

We intended to relax, hike, and enjoy beauty. This place looks amazing in photos but does not compare to its look and feel. There are so many interesting details about this home; the owner engages with her guests and is happy to discuss the home's construction and history. The short walk to the Rio Grand is not difficult and has places to take photos and read a book. We left feeling sad our time was over and already miss the views from the bedroom. We will be booking again.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deanne Z.

3 Dec 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful beauty

My adult son and I have always wanted to stay in an Earthship house, and The Dobson House did not disappoint. There is a very healing stillness and quiet in the home and the views are spectacular. Ruby the hosts dog is very sweet, and the owner was fantastic.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Allan C.

10 Nov 2024

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas D.

27 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Remember Earthships are earthy not 5 star hotels

We are very familiar with Earthships and love the earthy nature of the Dobson Earthship in Taos. The road to the 6,000 sq. ft. Earthship was dirt. warn and rutted by their recent torrential rains. Our all wheel drive was sufficient to navigate the several miles of dirt roads. The host, Brenda is wonderful and very knowledgeable about Michael Reynold's architecture. Lots of beautifully designed steps to climb so be prepared for the exercise. Not for the physically weak or impaired. You want a good taste of authentic Earthship life that can accommodate more than two if you take friends, the Dobson Earthship may be a good choice.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessa L.

12 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Getaway with my mom

This was the most spectacular diamond I’ve ever stayed at. Everything about it was so profound. It was like staying in a piece of art. Brenda is the most phenomenal, glowing and warmhearted human. She is the perfect host, so open and gracious welcoming you into her peace and tranquility. I would return back without a doubt. And definitely keeping this one on my to do list.

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Terry P., Knoxville

12 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect

Great place to stay to see the sunset and the amazing stars at night. Would suggest staying there i9n the much cooler months. It was hot in there, but worth it

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Douglas L.

6 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Gorgeous Property

We loved staying here and look forward to coming back!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher C.

12 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Truly remarkable site in a beautiful setting

This is a truly unique and beautiful place--very happy to have had the experience of visiting. The suite is comfortable and beautifully designed and constructed. Note that there is only one double bed and a couch, so really best for singles or couples. The common areas of the earthship are really amazing--huge, spacious and beautifully constructed and appointed. Amazing gourmet kitchen! The outdoor space is unlike anything you have ever seen. The setting is starkly beautiful. The night sky is amazing. Note that the driveway really requires 4WD to access. Owner--and her dog--are very friendly and welcoming. Loved it!

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leroy S.

4 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Quiet and secluded getaway

Amazing view on top of a hill. Took the short hike to the Rio Grande gorge edge and a path along it for a bit. Amazing views of the river. At the house Ruby the watchdog kept us safe from coyotes; often perched atop the lower roof keeping watch and taking off to chase them away. Fabulous kitchen with a great Wolf gas range. The sky was right for a great sunset on our last night. Super comfortable bed in our suite. Our host, Brenda, lives on site in a wing off the main area and we saw her a couple times during our stay. She gave us plenty of welcome information. Be ready to get your steps in! 23 from the parking area to the suite, and 41 up the grand staircase to the main level. There are a few landings along the way and they are short steps. We enjoyed our one of a kind getaway.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan C.

18 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Neat place

We enjoyed our stay and Brenda was very accommodating!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Beverly D.

26 Jul 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

WOW!!! ABSOLUTELY STUNNING!

I’d give this house 15 stars if I could! This place is absolutely stunning from the moment you walk in the door. We just rented one of the bedroom suites but if you went with another couple you each would have complete privacy and then share the rest of the 6500 sf house! The art and furnishings are so cute and interesting. The dramatic 100 ft grand staircase is so beautiful and when you reach the top you have beautiful views in a 1600 sf living space. I wish I could live here permanently! We didn’t cook, but if you wanted to, it has a gourmet kitchen with anything you could possibly need. Brenda, the owner, lives upstairs in the back with Ruby her sweet dog. She comes and goes, but is never intrusive on your personal space and is a delight to talk to! This earthship house is so interesting with beautiful architectural lines! It’s a little bit outside of town (about 15 minutes) but it’s totally worth it to enjoy the peace and solitude! It’s an easy hike to the rim of the gorge. We didn’t do the hike to the hot springs but that’s fairly close as well. It would be a great place to stay in the winter if you’re planning on skiing Taos cause it’s probably only about 40 minutes away. This was definitely one of the best accommodations we’ve ever stayed in. LOVED IT!!!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bill G.

25 Jul 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved it

We loved our stay at the Dobson house and glad we spent 3 nights to take the area in. Brenda is an awesome host. Wealth of local knowledge, great dining recommendations. Ruby, Brenda's pup is sweet and very well mannered. Wonderful location, the rim of the gorge is a quick walk down the hill along with access down to Manby springs. Gorge bridge is a short drive. Great base camp for our day trips into the mountains too! Really enjoyed it and would certainly stay again.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Liam D.

23 Jul 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

The Dobson House

The Dobson house is spectacular, a wonderful place to stay, and the host is fabulous.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Steven M.

3 Jul 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Fabulous views/location!

The views of the Rio Grande river gorge are amazing from Dobson House! This is a huge house! We enjoyed our stay—a unique experience to stay in an earthship. The bedroom/bathroom is large and has nice views and the large living area has spectacular floor to ceiling windows all for enjoying the amazing natural beauty of the surroundings. Great for star gazing since there is no light pollution. A few things to be aware of: 1) an AWD vehicle is really best for accessing the property, 2) the a/c is a swamp cooler on the living room/kitchen level. There is no cooling system in the bedrooms other than windows and fans so it was warm during our July stay, 3) be aware that the hostess stays in the house, on the upper level in a wing guests don’t use. We didn’t care but some people do so just throwing it out there. We didn’t see her much but she’s pleasant and knows a lot about earthships — we enjoyed speaking with her and her dog is a sweety! 4) this isn’t the house for you if you have mobility issues—lots of steps since it’s so large.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

James N.

26 Jun 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

A unique experience

The Dobson house is a unique experience. Earthships are a neat concept and the Dobson house does not disappoint. The house manager stays on site to make sure the house runs properly, but don’t let that be a concern for you will have your privacy. We felt like we had the house to ourselves. The trails around the house are amazing, with a private trail that leads to a hot spring. Overall highly recommend staying at this unique place.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jon G., Dallas tx

21 Jun 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Stay!!!

This home is amazing and we loved our stay!!! Beautiful sunsets every night, tons of stars!! Great private location but close to everything.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie K.

3 Jun 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place to stay thank you

We stayed for one night for a concert it was an awesome place slept great beautiful views. The Star gazing was amazin; g

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark B.

2 Jun 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Earthship

Amassing totally different Brenda wasgreat loved ruby the dog

Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Edwin B.

26 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Wow

A one of a kind! Wonderful place to stay if you visit Taos. Incredible!!!

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sarah D.

18 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Magical

We only stayed one night but really enjoyed it. The owner was very knowledgeable on the history of the house and the surrounding area. We especially liked the story of Arthur Manby. A hike to the hot springs is a must. Ruby, the owner’s dog, is an absolute delight- she was our tour guide to the hot springs.

Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Arthur B.

23 Apr 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent house great location

We loved our stay here. Got to see the stars from inside and outside the house and we hiked to the hot springs. It is a unique location and we would highly recommend it.

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rich M.

4 Apr 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

wonderful location and experience

Our stay at the Dobson Earthship was wonderful. Brenda is a fabulous host and it was an incredible experience.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M., East Greenbush

27 Mar 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

One of the most unique places EVER!

Location was easy to find, check in quick and the location and the house itself are stunning. Very unusual house, great backstory and the owner Brenda was super nice. And we loved Ruby the dog! Everything was super clean, pillows were amazing and we had a super relaxing and chill stopover. Absolutely would recommend

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

kyle a.

21 Mar 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful

Unique property with incredible views, privacy, and natural beauty. The perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy a one of a kind home in a one of a kind location. On our 1 night stay we saw coyotes and bighorn sheep!

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lola R.

19 Mar 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Memories made…

This property has spectacular views, beautiful decor, and warm, welcoming owners. It was the perfect two nights to end our get a way to New Mexico. Everything you need, and beautiful surroundings.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024