Chimayo

Take the High Road Byway to the small mountain hamlet of Chimay�, first settled in the 1740s. The village is known for three things: its weaving technique handed down through generations, its chile (the official New Mexico State Vegetable) and its church, the Santuario de Chimay�. Visit the Sanctuario, built in 1813 because of a reported miracle on that spot. Scoop up some "healing" dirt while there. Check out the Santo Ni�o de Atocha chapel built by Severiano Medina in 1856. The chapel is filled with tiny shoe offerings to the child saint beloved for his healing miracles. Stop in at the shops and art galleries and see weavers in action at Ortega's, Trujillo's and Centinela Traditional Arts. Perhaps you'll find a treasure to take home. Eat lunch or dinner at Rancho de Chimay�, a popular dining spot since 1965. Reservations are recommended in season.