Our casita is decorated in a traditional way. Mexican folkart adorns the walls as well as in nichos and shelves. It is a comfortable place to stay with furniture that conforms to comfort but in a fashion that reflects the area. Refrigerated air is available in the bedroom as well as another unit that provides comfort throughout the casita.
We scrupulously clean our casita after every renter and also block our calendar accordingly (at least a day afterwards) to provide for thorough cleaning/sanitizing. While we use primarily natural products we also use disinfecting products to ensure that we are providing as much disinfecting support as possible. Long term renters are required to pay an extra $50.00 cleaning fee every two weeks during their stay. We can arrange a convenient time when you are out and about for the cleaning. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns.
Our Property Imagine listening to the ringing of the church bells and walking out your door onto the charming plaza of Old Mesilla. Shopping at the unique shops around the plaza and dining on a variety of foods which includes our famous Mexican food.
Casita Azul is a two bedroom, one bath, 900 sq. ft. getaway. It is a historic property, which is part of the block that is listed on the State and National Register of Historic Places dating back to the 1850's. The casita was once a barn and then converted into living quarters. It is an adobe with thick walls. The ceilings are the traditional latillas (small lengths of wood) and vigas (large wood beams). The entrance is adorned with large carved, old Mexican, wooden double doors which opens to a covered portal (porch). The property owners are right next door and a common yard is shared. A newly bricked patio is available for relaxing in the New Mexico sunshine. The casita also has its own porch and access to the backyard area. It has a pet door so there is a possibility of bringing a small to medium sized dog. Please contact us if you plan to bring your pet.
As you enter the casita you walk into the kitchen which has blue Mexican tile accents, and an open living area. The rear bedroom shares the office area and a twin bed. The bathroom has a bathtub and a shower. The bathroom area has a separate heater and fan. There are two very quiet heating and refrigerated cooling units to make the casita cozy all year long. There is also a very basic utility room with a washer and dryer and a place to store suitcases and travel supplies.
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Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Please contact owner, small dog on property.
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
If you have checked with the owner about your dog, realize that there is a leash law enforced in the Town of Mesilla.
Please do not allow your pet on the furniture or beds. Make sure if you leave them in the casita that they are comfortable being left alone.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number 0783
Property # 1148998vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Mesilla
Located in Mesilla, this holiday home is on a lake. Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park and Rio Grande reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include NMSU Center for the Arts and Museum of Nature & Science. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at NMSU Tennis Center or Pan American Center. Practise your golf swing on a nearby course, or enjoy other activities in the great outdoors, such as mountain climbing, hiking and cycling in the area.
Rio Grande Vineyards and Winery - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Fountain Theatre - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Fountain Theater - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
Getting around
Las Cruces, NM (LRU-Las Cruces Intl.) - 12 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 3 min drive
Whataburger - 4 min drive
Dutch Bros Coffee - 3 min drive
Spotted Dog Brewery - 9 min walk
Starbucks - 4 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Casita Azul, Mesilla Plaza Only Steps Away pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Casita Azul, Mesilla Plaza Only Steps Away?
As of 12 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Casita Azul, Mesilla Plaza Only Steps Away on 16 June 2026 start from AU$181, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Casita Azul, Mesilla Plaza Only Steps Away?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Casita Azul, Mesilla Plaza Only Steps Away?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Casita Azul, Mesilla Plaza Only Steps Away?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Casita Azul, Mesilla Plaza Only Steps Away located?
Situated on a lake, this holiday home is steps away from Mesillia Plaza, San Albino Basilica and Fountain Theatre. Rio Grande Vineyards and Winery and Fountain Theater are also within 10 minutes.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The property was clean, beautiful and well-furnished. The proximity to Mesilla was fantastic, where we could walk to great restaurants. (La Posta is a favorite) We hope to stay there soon again. It was such a quaint home. The hosts could not have been nicer.
Jennifer G.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Apr 2026
Thank you Jennifer. We are so happy you enjoyed your stay. We hope to see you again sometime soon!
They had everything we needed and more. It was absolutely charming and the hostess was fabulous and accessible. It was a short distance to the Town Square and within a short walking distance of many really good restaurants.
This is the perfect place to stay! It is in a great location making it walkable to many restaurants. The place is beautifully decorated, spacious, and comfortable. We felt immediately at home. The parking spot was steps from the front door. Mary, the host, is incredibly nice as well as her cute dog, Millie. We would definitely stay here again!
Nancy P.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2026
Sorry it took so long to reply. I appreciate your kind words about Casita Azul and hope you do come and stay again.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Mark
13 Dec 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
A delightful, charming, spacious historic home just a few steps from Mesilla plaza. It was a real treat to have stayed here.
The host was very easy to communicate with. The property is steps away from the historic center of Mesilla. The casita gets an A for comfort and charm.
Such a beautiful casita in the heart of the town square. Mesilla is such a safe community -oriented friendly town! Mary Helen was attentive to our needs and friendly—she gave great advice on what to do and where to go. Christmas in Mesilla is AMAZING!
Alice C.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jan 2026
Thank you so much for your beautiful review. I am so glad you and your son enjoyed every minute of our small town Christmas. It is really special!
Mary Helen
The two of us had a wonderful week in Casita Azul! I can’t imagine a place that would have pleased or suited us any better. It was spacious and comfortable; it felt like home, an authentic Southwest adobe home. What a delightful place! The kitchen was well equipped with anything we could need. Importantly for us, we slept well in the comfortable king-size bed. The private patio was a favorite, with the flowers and plants—and no city sounds!The location was perfect for us: it’s near the edge of town yet a short, one-block walk to the plaza and all that it offers . At the same time, it provides easy access to anything in and around Mesilla and Las Cruces as well as to interstates that go in all four directions from Mesilla. I was sad that we didn’t get to meet Mary Helen in person, as she was out of town, but we did talk and text. Every need was met. Her welcome binder communicated everything we needed to know about the casita, and books and flyers in the living room helped us find things to do and places to go. This is definitely a place we would return to and have talked about a longer stay here.
The casita is warm and inviting and our host is amazing, very knowledgeable about the area and quite friendly. Bed comfy, plenty of towels. Adobe walls kept things warm during desert nights. Central to everything Mesilla - we didn't need a car for wining and dining. Would absolutely stay here again!
I have stayed here before and will again. This place is beautiful and in a great location. It fits perfectly into the area. Just walking in makes you feel comfortable.
Nick E.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2025
I wrote you a kind response but must have used your name and it was rejected. Please come back again and hopefully I will see you the next time.
Mary Helen
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Joe
22 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
What a wonderful blend of history and southwestern flair! We loved that it was located in the quaint town of Mesilla,very close to Las Cruces. It is within walking distance of several good resturants unique shops and museums. It was very comfortable and we would definitely stay again.
Linda S.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2025
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay and we hope you come again!
Mary Helen and Jim
This is the second time we have stayed at this lovely Casita. It’s roomy and comfortable with a full kitchen and laundry. The host was very helpful with providing everything we needed for our stay and gracious with gifting us a nice bottle of wine waiting for us on our arrival. The location is perfect for staying in Mesilla and Southern New Mexico. We will definitely stay here again.
Highly recommend staying here. It's comfortable, clean, charming -- the three Cs! -- and Mary Helen is a lovely host. Half a block from the plaza and so within easy walking distance of your morning coffee, your great bookstore browse, lunch -- and dinner -- if you'd like. Peaceful.
Tina G.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words. I am so happy you enjoyed your stay and I do hope you come back soon!
Mary Helen
Very beautiful little casita! Nice and quiet, felt safe, and Mesilla is lovely. The hosts are very gracious.
Monica M.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2025
I sent you a kind response earlier but it was rejected. I must have used your name. Thank you for choosing Casita Azul and do come back soon!
Mary Helen
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Stephanie
6 Jan 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This was a great place to stay!
Our host was very welcoming!
Amazing property. Walking distance to great dining options. Casita Azul is clean, tastefully decorated and stocked with all the essentials. Mary Helen is a great host.
We are so glad it was a pleasant place to work and take off to explore our Southern Land of Enchantment. We hope you come back for another working vacation.
Everything about our stay was perfect! Accurate listing, easy to check in, comfortable beds. We will definitely book this place again!
Stephanie D.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Oct 2024
Thank you for your positive review! We are so happy that you experienced Casita Azul and we definitely look forward to your return visit.
About the host
Hosted by Mary Helen Ratje
My husband and I decided to renovate and use the casita for vacation travelers after living in it for a number of years before building our current home close by on the property. I am a retired teacher and my husband has a small business. The property belonged to my mother and father and my childhood home is close by. We have kept the character of the historic property intact but have added modern conveniences such as a quality roof, refrigerated air etc. We love Mesilla and have worked hard to protect the history and character of the property.
Why they chose this property
My husband and I renovated the casita two years ago to make a vacation rental for people to enjoy. The casita was originally a barn which my mother and father purchased along with the adjoining property in the early 1950's. It is listed on the State and National Registry of Historic Properties. My parents had the barn renovated to be used as a living space for my grandmother. The casita has thick adobe walls along with a traditional ceiling with latillas and vigas which was the customary way of building homes in our village.
Since the property is steps away from the plaza, we are the closest to the heart of Mesilla. The Basilica of San Albino, as it currently stands now was built in 1906 by a French priest, Father Grange. It is a central spot on the plaza. All around the plaza are various shops and restaurants along with The Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site. https://nmhistoricsites.org/taylor-mesilla
What makes this property unique
The property, as I mentioned has thick adobe walls and traditional ceilings of vigas and latillas. It is decorated in the New Mexico/Mexico style with folk art and art covering the walls and nichos. It is listed on the State and National Registry of Historic Places and a few steps away from the Historic Mesilla Plaza. Our property, which is tucked away behind the Historic Site, was part of the historic home which we occupy now, The Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site entrance is on Calle de Principal which is right on the plaza. The site opened officially on November 8, 2025. The Historic Site is open Wednesday-Sunday from 8:30-4:00. I would suggest a guided tour which currently are available Wednesday through Sunday at 10:00 and 2:00. You can purchase your tickets at this website and learn more about it. https://nmhistoricsites.org/taylor-mesilla
Mesilla has plenty of beautiful areas to walk or ride bikes. Las Cruces is close by with many attractions in and around it. The Organ Mountains - Desert Peaks National Monument is nearby, along with the Rio Grande River and Mesilla Valley Bosque Park. There are plenty of art galleries, shopping and wonderful restaurants both in Mesilla and Las Cruces.
Premier Host
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