The Traveller’s Bucket List Item #10 | The Desert

Inspired by light, landscape and connection to the soil beneath your feet, El Cosmico represents more than just another trailor park or just another 5-star retreat.

When Donald Judd crossed the West Texan desert and arrived at the little-known city of Marfa in the early 70’s, he had a big influence on the small town - and on the cattle ranches, like the one Liz Lambert grew up on. This cultural convergence breathed a new, psychedelic spirit into the town and brought together the artistic and rural legacies on which Marfa still thrives and draws on today.

“This dynamic community, set against such a peaceful and dramatic landscape, would become the backdrop for her vision of freedom, community and adventure.”

Taking influence from America’s hippie and bohemian roots, nomadic lifestyles and Indian culture, Lambert worked with a team of builders and artists alike, students and the renowned architects of Lake|Flato and Design Build Adventure’s Jack Sanders to bring to life the vision for El Cosmico.

What stands there now is one of the world’s most unique and vibrant hotels, spanning 18 acres of land and consisting entirely of trailers, tepees, tents and a yurt.

From the Imperial Mansion to Little Pinky, each trailer is unique and vintage, fully-restored and refurbished, privately contained and intentionally left disconnected from the Wi-Fi (which is available for use in the lobby).

Or if you’re looking for a more down-to-earth vibe, book a stay in one of the Safari tents or bring your own to the campsite, where you’ll still be welcome to access the communial lounge areas, reading room and bath house.

Once you’ve settled in, you can relax alone or with like-minded travellers in the hammock grove or book an evening in one of the wood-fired hot tubs. And when you’re ready to explore, rent a bike from the lobby and head out into the international art Mecca that is Marfa, Texas.

Posted By: Catherine McNamara

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