Fodor's Expert Review Elephant Butte Inn & Spa

The mesa-top property feels like a resort and has panoramic views of the lake. Get a lake-view room if you can and enjoy the huge, lush lawn that seems to disappear into the water. The Ivory Tusk Tavern & Restaurant ($$) serves standard fare including hamburgers, and steak and seafood platters; there's a big Sunday breakfast buffet. A spa and full salon are on the premises for massage and beauty treatments, and golf packages are available for the Sierra del Rio Golf Course.