There’s something timeless about the mountains of New Mexico: the scent of pine in the air, orchards heavy with apples, and the silence that only wide-open skies can hold.
That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our newest Branch Out Glamping location: Manzano Mountain Retreat, a family-run property tucked among apple orchards and ponderosa pines in the Cibola National Forest, just an hour from Albuquerque.
The launch weekend exceeded all expectations, with occupancy surpassing 83%. It’s a strong early signal of a powerful partnership, and a reminder of how much travelers are seeking authentic, high-quality stays in places like the Manzano Mountains.
At the heart of Manzano Mountain Retreat are Guy and Noelle and their family, who have poured their hearts into creating a place where guests can truly reconnect with nature and one another. Their hospitality shines through in everything they do, from hosting weddings and festivals to welcoming guests into their orchard and farm.
“Guy and Noelle made us feel right at home — warm, welcoming, and always ready to help. We arrived tired and hungry, and they even shared a meal with us.”
We’ve deployed several DeWaard premium tents, a brand known for over 75 years of creating high-end canvas shelters in Europe, handcrafted to blend durability with elegance.
Each tent has been carefully positioned among 140 acres of orchards, meadows, and forest, offering sweeping mountain views and an easy connection to the rhythms of the land. Inside, guests find the perfect balance between comfort and simplicity:
Plush beds with soft linens and towels
Mini-fridge and coffee machine for morning rituals
Ambient lighting and full electrical power
Elegant décor that complements the natural surroundings
Views of meadows, orchards, and forest ridges
Step outside and you’ll likely spot the retreat’s friendly farm animals, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of mule deer wandering through the forest edge. The crisp mountain air and the sound of wind through the pines create the perfect setting to unwind and reconnect. Each tent includes a designated parking space, and guests enjoy full access to the retreat’s amenities, from the pool and gym to hiking trails and orchard paths.
Manzano Mountain Retreat is much more than a getaway. It’s a place where guests come to celebrate, reconnect, and recharge, whether for weddings, family gatherings, corporate retreats, or solo escapes.
If you’ve ever imagined saying “I do” surrounded by trees and mountain air, this venue makes it possible.
Couples can host pond-front ceremonies, with receptions in the beautiful rustic barn that accommodates up to 300 guests. On-site lodging and catering make it an easy, seamless experience for family and friends.
“Our wedding at Manzano Mountain Retreat was a dream! The forest backdrop, the barn, the cabins — it was all perfect. The staff made everything effortless.”
What makes this retreat truly unique is its combination of tranquility and activity.
Guests can enjoy:
A six-lane, 25-yard pool with mountain views
A full gymnasium and indoor basketball
Outdoor volleyball and pickleball
A fishing pond and ropes course for team building
Miles of forest trails perfect for hiking, biking, or quiet reflection
Whether you’re planning a wellness retreat, an offsite for your team, or just need time to unwind, this property strikes the perfect balance between nature and comfort.
Manzano Mountain Retreat isn’t just about forest and mountains. Apples, cider, farm life, and family traditions are woven into the place’s identity. The annual Apple Festival is a signature event that draws locals and visitors alike.
Stays here let guests enjoy the orchard life: tasting apples, listening to wind in the trees, and embracing seasonal cycles.
The retreat sits among forested slopes and meadows, with proximity to Cibola National Forest / Manzano Mountains Wilderness, offering hiking, nature walks, and views into wide New Mexican skies.
Additionally, the elevation and forest cover give guests relief from the summer heat, cooler nights, and dramatic skies, ideal for stargazing.
The property hosts animals like miniature donkeys, Highland cows, and more, which gives it a farm-retreat charm that many guests love.
The staff’s commitment to hospitality, authenticity, and community shows through in their local knowledge, event hosting, and immersive retreats.
Tailored Outdoor Experiences
Nature walks, orchard tours, and the nearby Cibola National Forest make every stay an adventure.
Luxury Comfort in the Wild
DeWaard tents deliver warmth, privacy, and elegance, the perfect blend of rustic and refined.
Culinary & Local Flavors
Farm-to-table dining and local New Mexican ingredients give guests a real taste of the region.
“The staff was absolutely incredible — accommodating every detail and making us feel like family.
“Peaceful, relaxing, and beautifully maintained — orchards, animals, and mountain views everywhere you look.”
“Five stars all around! Friendly hosts, gorgeous property, and so much to do. We left feeling refreshed and can’t wait to return.”
Early success is always gratifying, but what makes it truly special is when it reflects shared effort and vision. Launching at over 83% occupancy is more than a number, it’s proof that this collaboration between Manzano Mountain Retreat and Branch Out Glamping is already delivering the kind of experiences travelers are looking for.
Wake up to orchard light, sip coffee under the pines, explore trails by day, and gather around a fire under the stars.
Whether you’re celebrating, reconnecting, or simply recharging, Manzano Mountain Retreat invites you to experience the best of New Mexico’s mountain hospitality, now with luxury glamping comfort.
👉 Book your stay at Manzano Mountain Retreat now