The Desert Compass

The Desert Compass

1808 Old Town Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104-1382
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Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

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About

#1 of 3 inns in Albuquerque
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Location
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Value
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
The Desert Compass is a dreamy desert retreat located in the heart of historic Old Town Albuquerque. Each of our 6 adobe suites have been lovingly reimagined with local artwork, antique and designer furnishings, and luxury spaces. Whether you want to relax and reset or go out and adventure, our property is walkable to the best things to see and do in Albuquerque, and features a cowboy pool, lounge areas, lush gardens, and all the good desert vibes. With our communal style of hospitality, you can enjoy a drink by the pool, make s’mores by the fire pit, and meet new people in the main gardens, while also enjoying your own private accommodations.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Patio
Board games / puzzles
Kids stay free
Children's playground
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Secured parking
Wifi
Hot bath
Pool / beach towels
Adult pool
Outdoor pool
Plunge pool
Shallow end in pool
Baggage storage
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
24-hour check-in
Express check-in / check-out
Clothes dryer
Self-serve laundry
Washing machine
Room features
Blackout curtains
Air conditioning
Desk
Dining area
Coffee / tea maker
Flatscreen TV
Sofa bed
Walk-in shower
Fireplace
Private balcony
Seating area
Separate dining area
Separate living room
Sofa
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Clothes rack
Iron
Private bathrooms
Tile / marble floor
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Kitchenette
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Mountain view
City view
Landmark view
Pool view
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Mid-range
Quaint
Languages Spoken
English
Traveller rating
  • 11
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
Selected filters
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  • English
Popular mentions
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Detailed Reviews
Annalee B wrote a review Sept 2024
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The Desert Compass is one of the very few places I’ve stayed that truly wow-ed me. The attention to detail, the thoughtfulness in design, THE COMFORTABLE MATTRESSES AND PILLOWS, the cleanliness, the location… 🥹🥹🥹

I’ve been wanting to stay here for what feels like forever, and I’m so happy I finally got the chance. This is definitely in my top 5-10 stays of all-time, and top 5 non-hotel stays for sure!

If you’re new to Albuquerque, enjoy local culture, want to check out Route 66 in Abq., or simply enjoy having a beautiful place to stay, don’t miss out on this one. They have several cute suites on the same property, so it’s great for families and groups as well!
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Date of stay: August 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled solo
Room Tip: If you’re downstairs, pray you don’t have a loud neighbor above you.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tim B wrote a review Oct 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Perfect location to Old Town. Comfortable bed. Would definitely stay here again and recommend to friends. The ONLY thing I would recommend is getting an Ice machine to supply ice to guests. Even charge if you like. I like to ice down ice chests before I leave and continue my trip.
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Date of stay: October 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: Ice Machine
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sean M wrote a review Oct 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A very cozy and quaint place to stay. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay for 3 nights while we attended the 52nd Annual Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in Albquerque. The people who manage and maintain The Desert Compass were very warm, kind, and accommodating! If you love to stay in boutique hotels, or bed & breakfasts that are embedded in the historic areas, and allow you to walk to great restaurants and the community arts district, this is the place to stay!
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Date of stay: October 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tb-londontraveler wrote a review Jan 2024
London, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had an upstairs unit with a stone u shaped bench dining area, full kitchen, swing seat and a king bed. It was marvelous! The best part was the hot tub, which we had to ourselves, and the cold but refreshing cowboy tub. There didn't seem to be anybody else around so it was lovely and quiet.
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: It's a smaller place and it's likely to be very different if there are children around, so avoid...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter L wrote a review Sept 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This is an absolute gem - fantastic place to stay. Stayed in the Rattlesnake Suite and loved the art and aesthetic of the suite. Beautiful. Steps away from Old Town with shopping, food options, museums, open spaces, fabulous architecture... it was a pleasure to stay and we hope to return soon.
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Date of stay: September 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Victoria W wrote a review Dec 2024
Colombo, Sri Lanka
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Our suite was absolutely charming, decorated with flair and personality. We felt very welcome and comfortable. It was well equipped - no dishwasher, but that was not a problem. We loved that we could walk to so many places nearby including excellent museums as well as the Old Town. Desert Compass more generally is a beautiful heritage property with great facilities. Thanks for a lovely stay.
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Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Relax57777345768 wrote a review 23 Mar
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Desert Compass was a great location for or Albuquerque Trip. We were able to walk to lots of great shopping and dining options. And everything else was an easy drive.

The room was very comformtable and great relaxing environment. Perfect for a couples get away.
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Date of stay: March 2025
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Go569364 wrote a review Mar 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Can't beat the location. IImmediately adjacent to the shops and vendors in Old Town. Comfy beds. Great communication with host. Can't beat it!!!

If you're looking for a place in Albuquerque, this is a great choice.........................
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Date of stay: March 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shirley Jo A wrote a review Dec 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Stayed here with my folks and there was plenty of space.. The beds are really nice. and the vibe is awesome. This place is magical. SO thoughtful, artful and comfortable. Loved the location and it made me fall in love with Albuquerque all over again.
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Date of stay: December 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Retired Taosena wrote a review Dec 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Very charming, comfortable, and clean vacation rental! Location near downtown and Old Town is ideal! Top quality mattress and pillows, well equipped kitchen, easy parking, nice hot tub area, plenty of hot water...Can't wait to stay here again!
Read more
Date of stay: November 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: Don't overlook this vacation rental on your next trip to Albuquerque!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Retired Taosena wrote a tip Dec 2024
5 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Don't overlook this vacation rental on your next trip to Albuquerque!"
Read full review
Tim B wrote a tip Oct 2024
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Ice Machine"
Read full review
Annalee B wrote a tip Sept 2024
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"If you’re downstairs, pray you don’t have a loud neighbor above you. "
Read full review
tb-londontraveler wrote a tip Jan 2024
London, United Kingdom161 contributions22 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"It's a smaller place and it's likely to be very different if there are children around, so avoid school holidays. Very peaceful otherwise!"
Read full review
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There are more places to choose from in the Albuquerque area.
LOCATION
United StatesNew MexicoAlbuquerque
NUMBER OF ROOMS
7
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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THE DESERT COMPASS (Albuquerque) - Inn Reviews & Photos - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about The Desert Compass
Which popular attractions are close to The Desert Compass?
Nearby attractions include Explora Science Center and Children's Museum (0.3 km), Albuquerque Museum (0.2 km), and New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science (0.3 km).
What are some of the property amenities at The Desert Compass?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a pool, and free parking.
Which room amenities are available at The Desert Compass?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
Is parking available at The Desert Compass?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Desert Compass?
Conveniently located restaurants include Antiquity Restaurant, Vinaigrette, and Central Grill and Coffee House.
Are there opportunities to exercise at The Desert Compass?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Are any cleaning services offered at The Desert Compass?
Yes, self serve laundry and a clothes dryer are offered to guests.
Are pets allowed at The Desert Compass?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Are there any historical sites close to The Desert Compass?
Many travellers enjoy visiting West Mesa (4.5 km) and The Whittlesey House (3.0 km).
Does The Desert Compass have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the city view available here.
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