New Mexico is often called the 'Land of Enchantment' for its mystical landscapes and rich cultural heritage, and is among the most beautiful places in the United States. Vast, rugged and serene, adventurers will relish its Native American ruins, inspirational art traditions and distinctive food, all of which ignite the senses and nourish the soul.

The region was originally the home of the Anasazi people, who became today's Pueblo Indians and still live in their traditional settlements. New Mexico was also the scene of territorial wars between the legendary Apache and Navajo tribes. Spanish explorers arrived in the mid-16th century and, by 1610, the capital, Santa Fe, had been founded and settled. Today the dual Spanish and Indian heritage provides some fascinating historic attractions in the state.

New Mexico's history includes legendary mountain men and notorious cowboys such as Par Garrett and Billy the Kid, as well as cattle barons such as John Chisum, who grew rich rounding up longhorns on the south-eastern plains. The leap from cowboys to aliens is big but New Mexico makes it with ease in the south-eastern town of Roswell, where UFO enthusiasts flock to investigate the famous 'Roswell Incident', which involved an alleged UFO crash in 1947.

The state's diverse landscapes and incredible biodiversity will captivate nature lovers year round. From the stark white gypsum dunes of White Sands National Park to the deep canyons and ancient ruins of Chaco Canyon, each region tells a unique geological and cultural story. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer alpine forests and pristine lakes, and are hugely different from the high desert plains and their dramatic rock formations. Volcanic fields in places such as Valles Caldera and Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument create a painterly backdrop.

The local art scene blends Native American and Spanish traditions, and contemporary flair. Visitors can purchase spectacular pueblo pottery and the Navajo and Zuni's intricate turquoise jewellery, and stop at Santa Fe's galleries, which showcase bold Southwestern paintings. The northern town of Taos is a must for its historic adobe structures and modernist masterpieces.

Foodies will enjoy the tantalising flavours of Southwestern cuisine, which has Native American, Spanish and Mexican influences. Green and red chillies reign supreme; popular dishes include posole stew (chilli stew made from kernels of hominy flint corn), carne adovada (tender pork slow-cooked in a red chilli sauce) and the green chilli cheeseburger.

Aside from its historic and physical attractions, New Mexico has the special appeal of being caught in a time warp. A laid-back attitude prevails even in the cities, and the pace is as slow and languid as the ascent of the myriad of colourful hot-air balloons that fill the skies over the city of Albuquerque in the world-famous annual festival. This destination is a must for travellers who want to get off the beaten track.