If you've ever traveled through New Mexico, you know that it's a vast state with lengthy drives between the larger cities and towns. But that's just fine, because many of the most charming hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts are hidden in remote spots throughout the state. We've assembled a list of gems that are well worth a detour.

1. Ellis Store and Co. B&B, U.S. 380 Mile Marker 98, Lincoln

Lincoln is the best-preserved Wild West town in New Mexico and it’s tiny. However, this bed and breakfast isn’t even in Lincoln – it’s a couple of miles outside of town – so it definitely qualifies as remote. The Ellis Store was established in 1876 and this building has witnessed some historic events. You can actually sleep in the room where Billy the Kid was held captive for two weeks!

2. Inn at Halona, 23b Pia Mesa Road, Zuni

It’s unusual to be able to stay right in the middle of a pueblo and, while 6302 people call Zuni home, it’s in a part of New Mexico with a low population density. This inn offers cozy rooms accessorized with Zuni arts and crafts.

3. Casa Escondida B&B, 64 County Road 100, Chimayo

The small town of Chimayo is located partway along the scenic High Road to Taos. This bed and breakfast is full of Southwest charm. About half of the rooms are pet-friendly and there are mountain views from the grounds. This is the perfect stop if you’re traveling between Santa Fe and Taos or wish to visit El Santuario de Chimayo.

4. Silver Creek Inn, Box 306 HC 61, Mogollon

How would you like to stay in a legit ghost town? Granted your presence might make the ghost town moniker slightly questionable, but hotels don’t get more remote than this one in Mogollon. This old mining town is located in the Gila National Forest and the Silver Creek Inn is one of the few places where you’ll see signs of life.

The inn is inside a two-story adobe structure that dates back to around 1885 and there are four rooms available (adults only and reservations required). While you’re here, take this hike up to Graveyard Gulch.

5. Cañon del Rio Retreat and Spa, 16445 Highway 4, Jemez Springs

Cañon del Rio is an oasis tucked into the Jemez Mountains. Choose from five different rooms, decorated in soothing earth tones. This peaceful spot is next to the river and there is an on-site spa, but the true selling point is the astonishing scenery.

6. Casa de Suenos Country Inn, 405 Mountain Vista St, Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa lies on the New Mexico side of the border, near El Paso, making it not so much remote as overshadowed. At this bed and breakfast settle into a vibrant Southwestern-style room and explore the three-acre property, which is decorated with native plants and offers views of the mountains. It’s a tranquil setting for your next getaway.

7. Casa del Gavilan Historic Inn, PO Box 518, Cimarron

The Sangre de Cristo Mountains tower over this inn, which is located near Cimarron. If you want a secluded escape without interruptions, this is the place for you. A stay here yields staggering mountain vistas and plenty of peace and quiet. Please note that the inn closes from early January through mid-March.

8. Casa Blanca B&B, 13 Montoya Street, San Antonio

Casa Blanca is housed in a quaint, Victorian-style farmhouse that was built in 1880. The walls here are 24 inches thick, so you’re unlikely to hear other guests – there are three rooms available. Each room is named after a bird, a nod to the nearby Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge that is world famous for birding.

9. Elephant Butte Inn and Spa, 401 Highway 195, Elephant Butte

This lakeside resort overlooks Elephant Butte, New Mexico’s largest reservoir. There’s no need to rough it or stay in Truth or Consequences to enjoy all the water activities available at this state park. The hotel offers pools, a spa, and an on-site restaurant.

10. Abiquiu Inn, 21120 Highway 84, Abiquiu

Use this destination inn as a base for exploring New Mexico’s O’Keeffe Country. Choose between standard rooms, suites, and casitas, all of which are inviting. The inn sits on gorgeous grounds and there is a superb on-site café.

11. The Crofting Inn, 300 Swallow Place, Cloudcroft

The Crofting Inn is located in Cloudcroft, a town nestled in the Lincoln National Forest, 20 miles from Alamogordo. The innkeepers at this comfy house are welcoming and prepare scrumptious home-cooked breakfasts daily.

Tell us about the most remote place you've stayed in New Mexico on the Only In New Mexico Facebook page.

As you can see, those who venture off the beaten track in the Land of Enchantment are well rewarded. Here are some small New Mexico towns with a surprising amount to offer.