Before Bezos, Musk and Zuckerburg, there was Ted Turner, the OG of the billionaire club. Once you’ve made all that dough though, what do you do? Well, Ted literally rode off into the sunset. But don’t say that he’s been put out to pasture, as even in his ripe-old retirement, those pastures house his eccentric portfolio of hotels. This is a look at Ted Turner Reserves.

Background

Chances are you’ve heard of Ted Turner one way or another. He’s most widely known as the founder of CNN, AKA the first 24-hour cable news network. While Turner dedicated much of his career to broadcasting, his work in philanthropy arguably surmounts it. Turner is either part of or has started many environmental and philanthropic initiatives. He created a fund for endangered species and pledged $1 billion to the United Nations. He also founded the Turner Foundation, dedicated to preserving the earth’s natural systems, and Turner Renewable Energy – the list goes on.

So Why Hotels?

You’re probably wondering how this broadcasting titan got into the hospitality industry. Well, Turner owns a lot of land. Two million acres across North America, to be exact. Over a million acres of his property make up four reserves, where you can lodge and enjoy the natural beauty. Turner’s mission is to connect you with nature. In hopes of inspiring guests to take initiative in a setting that magnifies the rewards of conservation. Those rewards include pristine landscapes and endangered species sightings like the North American bison and Bolson tortoise during a sustainably conscious holiday. 

The Hotels

The Hotel: Sierra Grande

Location: Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

Overview

Let’s start by saying you can take a 30-minute complimentary hot spring soak daily at Sierra Grande. A geothermal hot springs network runs under the property, so you’re immediately welcomed by a peaceful vibe. The Lodge is perfect for an intimate feel, with 17 guest rooms and the option to book The Casita – a private home neighboring the Lodge if you want privacy. The rooms have a homey southwestern flair and are a ride away from the sister properties Armendaris and Ladder. You can take full advantage of all three properties on a hike or mountain biking. A bat cave expedition is also on the itinerary, and you’re in luck because now through September is viewing season.

The Hotel: Vermejo

Location: Northern New Mexico

Overview

Vermejo spans 550,000 acres of land, has snowy mountaintops, and 19 lakes for fishing. The reserve is a goldmine for wildlife sightings where you can spot elk, mountain lions, and fly fish for trout. The all-American experience has four accommodations, including a Casa Grande 1900s-inspired mansion and Bartlett Cottage, an extension of Casa Grande for smaller groups wanting the entire space. Then there’s Chandler Cottage and Costilla Fishing Lodge, ideal for fishing at 10,000 ft in elevation if you want seclusion and true wilderness. The Turner House is the last option. There, you’ll find an elegant and peaceful stay with direct access to the spa. Speaking of stress-free, three meals a day featuring American cuisine is all-inclusive.

The Hotel: Ladder

Location: Caballo, New Mexico

Overview

We know we said Sierra Grande is intimate, but The Country House at Ladder is entirely yours. If you want solitude, the four-bedroom home is on 156,000 acres of land, so the friends you’ll be making will most likely have wings and tails. Your ultra-private stay comes with a private chef, tour guide, and all the southwestern charm you could want. A private breakfast porch, rocking chairs, window seating, and fireplace create a slow living environment. The area is also full of cultural artifacts so that you can explore a ghost town and adobe ruins with a guide. From  August 2 – 4, 2024,  the Annual Elephant Butte Balloon Regatta sends more than 20 hot air balloons into the sky, and Ladder is the prime location to watch.

The Hotel: Armendaris

Location: South Central New Mexico

Overview

We saved the newest property for last. Ted Turner’s latest reserve accommodation is The Hacienda at Armendaris – a luxury dessert stay. There is no better place to stargaze than the desert; Armendaris is a 360,000-acre property in the Chihuahuan desert, allowing night sky sightings. Some other sightings include the Armendaris Bat Flight Expedition- when over a million bats emerge from their cave, and if you’re lucky, a dinosaur fossil or desert bighorn sheep. The house has everything needed for inside activities, like a separate breakfast and dining room, game room, bar, and designated massage areas. A private chef is also available for meal planning. You can have your dinner party outside in the renovated courtyard with a gas fire pit and an outdoor kitchen too. After all, the point of these reserves is to fall in love with the surrounding nature.   

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