Ted Turner Reserves
Discover the Magic of Ted Turner Reserves: A Journey into Luxury, Conservation, and Nature
EGW Luxury Magazine
Fall/Winter 2024
Written by Monica Lofstrom
For travelers who seek a blend of adventure, luxury, and environmental stewardship, Ted Turner Reserves offers an unparalleled experience that few places on Earth can rival. Nestled in the heart of New Mexico, these sprawling, meticulously conserved properties—spanning over 1.1 million acres—provide a harmonious fusion of opulence and an unfiltered connection with the great outdoors. The Ted Turner Reserves include three extraordinary properties—Vermejo, Armendaris, and Ladder, alongside a secluded retreat at Sierra Grande. They serve not only as luxurious escapes but also as a living testament to Turner’s vision of reconnecting people with nature.
For travelers looking to indulge in eco-luxury and play an active part in preserving our planet’s precious ecosystems, Ted Turner Reserves beckons as a destination of choice. From extraordinary wildlife sightings to world-class accommodations, every element of a stay here invites you to immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of nature while enjoying an unforgettable, bespoke experience.
Costilla Fishing Lodge
Casa Grande
A Conservation Vision Brought to Life
At the heart of Ted Turner Reserves lies a bold and clear mission: to conserve and restore wild spaces while connecting guests to the incredible beauty and biodiversity of the American Southwest. This is not just a vacation spot; it's a sanctuary for wildlife and an ode to sustainability.
Ted Turner’s commitment to conservation is encapsulated in the brand’s mission to "Save Everything." This guiding principle is woven into every aspect of the reserve’s operations. As a guest, you’re not only witnessing a luxury experience—you’re contributing directly to these vital conservation efforts. The revenue generated from hosting guests goes directly into funding the restoration and protection of the land, wildlife, and native species.
Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Ted Turner’s lifelong dedication to ecological stewardship through guided tours, presentations, and hands-on learning. Guests are invited to learn about critical projects, such as the restoration of American plains bison and Mexican gray wolf populations, among others. These aren’t just lessons in biology—they are profound stories of hope and action aimed at ensuring that future generations inherit a planet teeming with wildlife and flourishing ecosystems.
Unmatched Wilderness Experiences
Few places offer the sheer diversity of landscapes, wildlife, and experiences that you will find at Ted Turner Reserves. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure or someone longing for a peaceful retreat into nature, these reserves have something for everyone.
Vermejo: Where Nature and Luxury Collide
Of the three properties, Vermejo stands out as a flagship for Ted Turner Reserves. Spanning nearly 600,000 acres, Vermejo is home to diverse ecosystems ranging from alpine tundra to expansive grasslands. Guests can explore verdant forests, winding rivers, and untouched landscapes teeming with wildlife. It's not uncommon to encounter majestic elk, bison, and black bears as you explore the property.
Guests at Vermejo have the rare privilege of witnessing one of the most successful conservation projects in the world. The reserve’s efforts have led to the reintroduction of the Rio Grande cutthroat trout (RGCTT), restoring this endangered species to over 40 miles of stream and 16 lakes across the property. This remarkable accomplishment directly contributed to the RGCTT’s removal from the endangered species list, making Vermejo a triumph of conservation.
A stay at Costilla Lodge, Vermejo’s crown jewel, exemplifies luxury with a purpose. This LEED-certified lodge is powered by solar energy 87% of the year, offering an eco-conscious yet lavish stay with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the sweeping vistas of the mountains and valleys. If luxury paired with a focus on sustainability excites you, this is a must-visit destination.
Beyond luxurious accommodations, activities at Vermejo are plentiful and tailored to the adventurous spirit. Guided fly-fishing trips, horseback riding, and hikes through secluded mountain trails are all designed to immerse guests in nature. For those with an interest in history, the property offers cultural tours where guests can explore ancient petroglyphs and remnants of long-lost settlements, all while learning about the vibrant Native American and Spanish history that shaped the region.
Bison calf - Vermejo
Mexican gray wolf on Ladder property
Armendaris: A Desert Sanctuary
For those enchanted by the mystery of the desert, Armendaris offers an oasis of solitude and unique wildlife. Located in southern New Mexico, this 362,885-acre reserve is home to some of the rarest and most elusive species in the American Southwest. Here, guests can embark on exclusive safaris to spot the Bolson tortoise, Chiricahua leopard frog, and even the once-extinct-in-the-wild desert bighorn sheep.
Armendaris is a wildlife lover’s dream. With experts leading the way, visitors can observe these creatures up close and in their natural habitats, all while understanding the importance of the reserve’s biodiversity programs. A highlight of any stay here is the chance to witness the Gunnison’s prairie dog colonies—an integral part of the desert ecosystem—as they go about their daily routines.
Exploring the vastness of Armendaris is an experience like no other. Whether trekking through red rock canyons or enjoying a serene night under the stars in one of the most remote corners of the country, the sense of tranquility here is unparalleled. The property’s efforts to preserve its vast, arid landscapes through sustainable practices are palpable, and guests leave with a profound connection to the desert and its ancient secrets.
Ladder: A Historical and Cultural Treasure
At Ladder, you’ll find a blend of rugged beauty and rich history that few places in the United States can match. This 156,439-acre property, located in the southern part of New Mexico, is deeply rooted in both natural and human history. From the remnants of ancient Mimbres pit houses excavated by archaeologists to the Civil War-era sites, Ladder offers guests the chance to step back in time and connect with the region’s storied past.
One of the most extraordinary experiences at Ladder is the opportunity to explore the Jornada del Muerto—a remote and rugged stretch of desert that played a pivotal role in both Native American history and the Spanish settlement of the American West. The reserve offers guided tours led by experts who share the rich history and cultural significance of the land.
For those passionate about archeology, Ladder also hosts ongoing research projects, and guests have the chance to participate in these efforts. The nearby Seco Creek excavation unearthed burial sites and other artifacts, offering an intimate look into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this region.
Beyond history, the reserve is home to some of the most impressive dark skies in the United States, perfect for stargazing. Night tours are available, offering an unparalleled view of the heavens, unmarred by city lights. It’s a humbling experience to lay under the expansive sky, contemplating the vastness of both time and space, with only the soft desert breeze as your companion.
House at Ladder
The Hacienda at Armendaris
Commitment to Sustainability and Local Communities
Sustainability is woven into the fabric of every guest experience at Ted Turner Reserves. From eco-friendly accommodations to sourcing food from local farmers, every element of a stay here emphasizes the importance of conservation.
Since the inception of Ted Turner Reserves in 2019, single-use plastics have been phased out, and guests are encouraged to embrace a sustainable lifestyle. Reusable water containers are provided, and there are multiple water stations throughout the properties, ensuring that your ecological footprint is as small as possible. Efforts are also made to engage with and support local communities. Over 45% of the staff at Ted Turner Reserves are hired from within a 50-kilometer radius, and the reserves actively support local businesses, from musicians to farmers.
Vermejo, for example, grows 70% of its own produce on-site, ensuring that your meals are not only farm-to-table fresh but also support sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the reserve sources goods from nearby artisans and farmers, bolstering the local economy while maintaining an environmentally responsible operation.
Learn more about Ted Turner Reserves’ commitment to sustainability.
How to Experience Ted Turner Reserves
Ted Turner Reserves offers a wide range of bespoke experiences, from exclusive wildlife tours to relaxation at the Sierra Grande Lodge & Spa, a luxurious retreat offering world-class spa treatments and healing natural hot springs.
Whether you're looking for a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a solo retreat into nature, Ted Turner Reserves will tailor your visit to create unforgettable memories.
For more information or to book your stay, contact Ted Turner Reserves at:
Phone: 877-2TURNER
Website: www.tedturnerreserves.com
Embark on a journey to the heart of nature, where luxury meets conservation, and help shape the future of the planet one unforgettable experience at a time.
