MEXICO
MEXICO
Lovers of nature, wildlife, and eco luxury.
180 degrees of the powerful Pacific Ocean. Whimsical colourful architecture amidst a green natural paradise. Mango trees. Wild zebras. Releasing baby turtles at sunset. Crashing waves, magic and transformations.
Best October to June.
Perched on Mexico’s Pacific coast in the lush state of Jalisco, Cuixmala is a sprawling eco-retreat set on over 25,000 acres of pristine landscapes. Once a private estate, this breathtaking sanctuary offers a mosaic of terrains, from golden beaches and vibrant lagoons to rolling hills and verdant jungles. The property’s location within a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve ensures that guests are immersed in an unspoiled natural paradise. Cuixmala’s diverse environments evoke a deep sense of connection to the land, making it a destination that feels both luxurious and intrinsically wild.
The property is a haven for wildlife, hosting an incredible array of species that thrive within its protected borders. Guests may encounter zebras grazing on the estate’s grassy plains, sea turtles nesting on its beaches, or vibrant flocks of tropical birds soaring overhead. Lagoons teem with life, from colorful fish to crocodiles, while the surrounding jungle is alive with the sounds of howler monkeys and other native creatures. Cuixmala’s dedication to conservation ensures that these ecosystems are preserved and celebrated, offering a rare opportunity to witness biodiversity in harmony with sustainable tourism.
Architecturally, Cuixmala is a masterpiece that blends opulence with ecological consciousness. Its centerpiece, the iconic Casa Cuixmala, is a Moorish-inspired villa with domes, vibrant tiles, and sweeping ocean views that feel both majestic and intimate. The estate’s other accommodations, including bungalows, casitas, and villas, are designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating local materials and energy-efficient systems. The property is powered by renewable energy sources, and much of the food served is grown on its organic farm. Cuixmala’s thoughtful design and eco-forward ethos set a new standard for luxury travel, where sustainability and elegance coexist effortlessly.
Exploration options are as plentiful as they are diverse. Discover the various landscapes surrounding the property. Ride horseback through coconut plantations. Visit the calm Playa Caleta Blanca for snorkeling. Visit a private eco animal reserve, home to zebras, crocodiles, antelopes, 270+ bird species, as well as an illusive jaguar to name a few. Go surfing. Spend the day on the water atop a 42ft sailing yacht is available to charter.
Cuixmala is part of numerous wildlife initiatives with its Turtle, Feline, Crocodile, and Bird programs.
Seasonal and sustainable produce biodynamically grown, raised, and fished in the surrounding area. Try octopus tostadas or the catch of the day.
Fly into Manzanillo International Airport, which is 75 minutes away orPuerto Vallarta International Airport for a scenic 3 hour drive. Rent a car to have the freedom to explore.
The hotel embraces a holistic approach to environmental stewardship, weaving sustainable practices into the fabric of its operations. Cuixmala boasts an eco-friendly design that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding natural landscape, minimizing its impact on the delicate ecosystems. The property harnesses renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to reduce its carbon footprint. Water conservation is a key focus, with efficient systems in place to optimize usage. Cuixmala is dedicated to biodiversity conservation, actively participating in local initiatives and protecting the native flora and fauna. Through community engagement and responsible tourism practices, the hotel contributes to the well-being of the region. Guests at Cuixmala are invited to partake in an eco-conscious journey, providing an unforgettable experience that respects and preserves the captivating beauty of Mexico's Pacific coast.
*Photos property of Cuixmala
MEXICO
MEXICO
Travelers looking for a mind, body, and soul retreat. Creators. Solo travelers. Fitness Enthusiasts.
A wellness resort with a soul. Community-inspired living. Waking up to birdsong. Wandering through ancient oak groves. The sacred power of Mount Kuchumaa. The scent of citrus in the air. Just-picked organic ingredients. Natural medicine. Pausing, creating and reflecting. Beautiful possibilities.
The best time to visit Tecate, Mexico, is during the spring (January to June) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is pleasant and mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region.
Rancho La Puerta is an all-inclusive restorative wellness sanctuary located in Tecate, Baja California, Mexico. Nestled in the scenic valley at the base of the mystical Mount Kuchumaa, a mountain revered by the Native American Kumeyaay tribe as a sacred site, the resort is surrounded by oak groves, offering a serene and immersive environment.
Established in 1940 by Professor Edmond Szekely and his wife Deborah, the retreat aims to transform guests' lives. Known as “the friendly spa,” Rancho La Puerta offers a warm, community-like atmosphere akin to an eco-village. Encompassing a private 4,000-acre nature preserve, the resort integrates its facilities with the surrounding landscape, featuring organic gardens, medicinal plants, and a meditation labyrinth.
The design of Rancho La Puerta is deeply connected to nature, with 87 individually designed casitas seamlessly integrated into the chaparral landscape. The interiors feature wood-beamed ceilings, hand-painted tiles, spacious patios and fireplaces in many, preserving traditional craftsmanship and supporting local artisans. All of the guest accommodations, as well as facilities, feature air conditioning in addition to natural ventilation.
The expansive property includes 40 miles of hiking trails, 32 acres of landscaped gardens, and an organic farm with a cooking school. Guests can enjoy various amenities such as three full-service holistic spas, eleven gyms, four pools, a running track, numerous sports courts, as well as a wine bar, a juice bar, an art studio, and multiple indoor and outdoor gathering spaces. The onsite spas offer treatments using fresh, organic herbs and plants grown on-site, providing therapeutic benefits that complement the balanced mind, body, and spirit experience the Ranch promotes.
Rancho La Puerta spans an impressive 4,000 acres, seamlessly integrating with the natural environment. The retreat boasts remarkable ecological diversity, with thriving marshlands, ancient oak groves, and a rich array of flora and fauna. These habitats support various wildlife, including coyotes, cottontail rabbits, foxes, as well as a wide range of North American bird species like golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and ravens.
Rancho La Puerta offers a wide range of spiritual, active, and creative wellness experiences to engage guests physically and mentally. From more than 40 daily fitness classes and mountain treks to guided meditations, art classes, and chamber concerts, there is something for everyone. The renowned spas are complete with steam rooms, whirlpools & saunas, and offer acupuncture, reflexology, chiropractic care, detox cupping massages, energy medicine, and Xocolatl Skin Replenishment among many other treatments and therapies.
The hiking program is central to the Rancho La Puerta experience, with guided treks across diverse terrains. Fitness options include racquet sports, HIIT, yoga, barre, aquatics, Pilates, and Gyrokinesis®. Mindfulness practices help guests reflect and connect through meditation, sound healing, reflexology paths, sacred chants and labyrinth walking.
Rancho’s six-acre Tres Estrellas Organic Farm supplies its culinary team with fresh fruits and vegetables, ensuring the highest quality meals. The cuisine, a celebrated blend of Mexican-Mediterranean flavors, is described as "modified vegetarian," focusing on low-carb, low-fat essentials suitable for most diets, and complemented by fresh fish from Ensenada. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including the Bazar del Sol espresso and wine bar, which features wines from Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe, and La Cocina Que Canta, the culinary center offering weekly cooking classes and Chef’s Table dinners with renowned guest chefs. The Tierra Alegre juice bar enhances the resort's commitment to freshness, offering juices made from produce harvested the same day at Tres Estrellas and a selection of healthy vegan and raw vegan protein snacks. Additional produce is sourced from local organic farms, ensuring a completely seasonal menu.
Rancho La Puerta is conveniently located just 4 miles from the US/Mexico border at Tecate. The resort offers complimentary roundtrip transportation to and from the San Diego Airport on Saturdays at scheduled times. Guests also have the option to drive to the US/Mexico border, where a Ranch representative will assist with the border crossing. Additionally, guests can choose to drive directly to the Ranch, where complimentary secure parking is provided.
Rancho La Puerta prides itself on an eight-decade commitment to environmental sustainability, rooted in the philosophy of its founders, Edmond and Deborah Szekely. This commitment is reflected in the resort’s eco-programs and forward-thinking community initiatives, which have been integral to the guest experience and beneficial to the Tecate region and beyond. Today, President Sarah Livia Szekely Brightwood continues to uphold and advance these principles, ensuring that the resort remains in harmony with its natural surroundings.
The design and construction at Rancho La Puerta prioritize green principles, using local materials and traditional craftsmanship while minimizing environmental impact. Buildings are carefully integrated into the natural landscape, using biodegradable resources and native plants to stabilize construction areas. The resort incorporates natural features such as trees and boulders into its design, providing shade and aesthetic value. Structures are designed for natural ventilation, with ceiling fans to circulate air, and many buildings utilize sustainable materials like straw bale and adobe, which provide insulation and artistic charm.
The organic garden supplies 50-90% of the food served at the Ranch, cultivating over 250 varieties of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The garden uses composted organic matter and minimal mechanical tools, fostering a biodiverse ecosystem.
The resort participates in Mexico’s “Empressa Limpia” environmental program and engages in ongoing sustainability training. Additionally, the Ranch offers a Soil-to-Table Certification Program, providing college students with hands-on learning in ecological farming and farm-to-table food preparation, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and education.
The Ranch actively supports the local community by aiding orphanages, hospitals, and river cleanups. It also brings wellness, cultural, and educational programs to Tecate, primarily through Fundación La Puerta.
*Photos property of Rancho La Puerta
MEXICO
MEXICO
Surfers. Hippies. Design Lovers. Friends or family reunion.
Laid back luxury. Remote paradise. Cactus garden chill.
April to December.
Escondido, means "hidden" and the name really speaks for itself. Located in the state of Oaxaca, Hotel Escondido sits on a secluded beach, not far away from Puerto Escondido, Mexico’s surf paradise. Nestled along the pristine shores of the Pacific Ocean, the retreat stands as a secluded haven where luxury meets natural beauty. With its design seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscapes, Hotel Escondido celebrates the spirit of slow coastal living, providing guests with a beachfront sanctuary that harmonizes with the rhythm of the ocean waves. Choose one of the sixteen design palapas with individual pools and terraces, all facing the beach. Take a swim in the long infinity pool, built parallel to the coast. Visit the spa for traditional Mexican treatments and really enjoy being away from it all. Boasting minimalist architecture and a commitment to sustainability, this beachfront hotel invites travelers to indulge in the art of relaxation, enjoying the sun-kissed beaches and the laid-back charm that defines the allure of Mexico's Pacific coast.
Surf. Go horseback riding along the beach. Do yoga at sunrise. Take a trip to Laguna de Manialtepec or Rocablanca beach, both about 15 minutes from the hotel.
Gourmet Mexican food. Catch of the day. Huevos mexicanos for breakfast. Hot oaxaca chocolate.
Fly into Huatulco and take a 2 hour exhilarating mountain ride to the hotel. Fly into Puerto Escondido for a closer options.
The hotel integrates sustainable design elements into its architecture, utilizing locally sourced materials and prioritizing energy efficiency. Solar panels are employed to harness the abundant Mexican sunshine, contributing to the hotel's commitment to renewable energy. Waste reduction is another key aspect of Hotel Escondido's sustainability initiatives, with recycling programs and a focus on minimizing single-use plastics. The resort is dedicated to preserving the local ecosystem, engaging in conservation efforts and promoting responsible tourism practices.
*Images property of Escondido Hotel
MEXICO
MEXICO
Winos. Design Lovers.
You are here for the beautiful vast surroundings, the unique architecture and the wine. Relax on the pool terrace or watch the stars in jacuzzi at night. Light the Mexican kiva to stay warm on a private wooden terrace.
April to December.
Nestled in the heart of Mexico's wine country, Hotel Encuentro Guadalupe offers a unique and immersive escape for those seeking a blend of luxury and nature. Situated amidst the stunning landscapes of Valle de Guadalupe, the hotel features modern and minimalist design that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding vineyards and mountains. Guests can indulge in the breathtaking views of the valley from their private, eco-friendly "boros" – innovative cabin-like structures that provide both comfort and a connection to nature. The hotel embraces sustainable practices, utilizing solar panels and recycled materials in its construction. Beyond its eco-conscious initiatives, Hotel Encuentro Guadalupe boasts an array of amenities, including a renowned on-site restaurant, wine tastings, and outdoor activities. Whether exploring the local wineries, enjoying a soak in the infinity pool, or simply savoring the tranquility of the landscape, this Mexican gem offers an unforgettable retreat that harmonizes with the beauty of its surroundings.
The unique landscape of Valle de Guadalupe houses some of Mexico's biggest wineries. Explore the vineyards and the restaurants in the area for a culinary adventure.
Gourmet local cuisine at the hotel. Visit Laja restaurant a short drive away. Eat under the stars overlooking the valley.
Fly into Tijuana and arrange a pickup with the hotel.
The property employs solar panels for energy generation, reducing its carbon footprint while harnessing the abundant sunlight. The design incorporates recycled materials, contributing to a responsible approach to construction. Hotel Encuentro Guadalupe also focuses on water conservation, implementing efficient systems to minimize usage. Embracing the principles of sustainable tourism, the hotel promotes responsible exploration of the region, ensuring that guests have a positive impact on the local environment.
*Images property of Hotel Encuentro Guadalupe
MEXICO
MEXICO
People looking to spiritually recharge. Wildlife lovers. Eco-tourists. Yogies.
Sustainability meets luxury. Staff that quickly become family. Whale sightings from your private beach. Untainted sand. Kayaking amongst the pelicans.
Anytime! Note that rainy season is from July to October.
Playa Viva offers a unique blend of eco-luxury amidst the rugged and unspoiled beauty of Mexico's Pacific coastline. Situated on nearly 200 acres of pristine coastal land, Playa Viva consists of a diverse range of ecosystems, including estuaries, archaeological sites, and coastal forests. The resort provides a secluded and immersive experience, allowing guests to escape into the wonders of nature and enjoy unparalleled relaxation in a private and sustainable paradise.
With 19 eco-luxury rooms, including the award-winning oceanfront Treehouse accommodations, guests can enjoy breathtaking ocean views while immersing themselves in nature. From morning yoga sessions to volunteering in the turtle sanctuary, ample opportunities are provided to engage with the local environment and community, or simply unwind in paradise. Playa Viva operates as a B-Corp certified brand, emphasizing sustainability and regenerative practices, including running entirely off-grid with solar power and supporting local health, education, and land restoration initiatives.
The resort's commitment to wellness is evident in every aspect of the guest experience, from healthy, locally sourced cuisine to daily beachside yoga classes and a variety of massage services. The property's mile-long private beach and lush surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for guests to connect with nature and enjoy the simple luxury of the natural world. Playa Viva's dedication to creating meaningful community and providing transformational experiences extends to its watershed regeneration projects, which focus on education, permaculture, marine conservation, water health, and reforestation, all aimed at achieving a greater impact in the ecosystem.
Enjoy complimentary yoga every morning. Wander the 200 acre property and discover an Aztec archeological site or a mangrove ecosystem - home to a variety of wildlife. Bird watch. Take a snorkeling, diving or deep sea fishing trip. Surf some of the best waves on Mexico's Pacific coast - all within a one hour drive. Go horseback riding on the beach and into the ocean. End the week with a visit to the Mexican chocolate makers. Take part in preserving wildlife and volunteer in Playa Viva's own Turtle Sanctuary.
Fresh fish tacos. Barbacoa (slow-cooked meat). Fruit-infused water. Basil margaritas. Herbs and vegetables from Playa Viva's own organic gardens. Learn how to make handmade tortillas. Take part in communal dinners.
Take a 35 minutes drive south from Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa International Airport. Walk barefoot the rest of the time.
Playa Viva aspires to build a self-sufficient settlement, using water conservation measures and running on a 100% solar system. The ecolodge also runs The Playa Viva Turtle Sanctuary, protecting turtles from predators and poachers. This unique eco-resort is committed to preserving the natural beauty that envelops it, creating an idyllic escape for environmentally conscious travelers. Playa Viva integrates sustainable practices throughout its operations, from its solar-powered energy systems to organic farming initiatives that supply the on-site restaurant. The accommodations, including beachfront casitas and treetop suites, offer an immersive experience that connects guests with the surrounding nature. With a strong focus on community engagement, Playa Viva supports local projects and endeavors to empower the nearby communities. Whether indulging in farm-to-table dining, practicing yoga in a palapa overlooking the ocean, or participating in turtle conservation efforts, guests at Playa Viva embark on a journey that harmonizes luxury with a profound respect for the environment.
*Images property of Playa Viva, Kev Steele, ryanforbesphotography, @Hairtieneeded
MEXICO
MEXICO
Couples looking for an intimate wedding venue. Design and architecture lovers.
Cactus and flowers everywhere. Concrete soaking tubs. 360 degree views of the vast surrounding landscape. Scent of citrus and lavender in the air. Sunrise yoga. Private secret oasis.
Lots of sunshine November to March and September to October with average temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius.
Casa Adela is a boutique hotel outside of San Miguel de Allende, in the vast Mexican countryside. The 8-acre retreat, originally an artist’s residence, consists of 7 rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, and sits on a hill of the Sierra Nevada high desert plain.
Relax in the natural hot-spring fed pool or get a hot stone massage. Wander through the onsite citrus orchard & herb garden. Enjoy unparalleled mountain views every morning and nightly stargazing from the hacienda’s rooftop terrace.
See the surrounding Unesco heritage site from a hot air balloon or ride through canyons on horseback. Go into town to see works of masterful artisans ot take the San Miguel culinary tour. Go mountain biking or rappelling. Visit Guanajuato for its wines.
Modern Mexican cuisine. Herbs and cactuses from Casa Adela’s own garden. Try the Cactus Salad or Guanajuato Chicken.
Fly into San Miguel de Allende and arrange a pickup with the hotel.
The 8-acre retreat has been thoughtfully designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The property's focus on sustainability can be seen in its eco-friendly initiatives. Casa Adela utilizes a natural hot spring to fill its pool, minimizing the need for energy-intensive heating systems. The hotel also actively supports local artisans, using handcrafted furniture and decor, and serves locally-sourced cuisine to reduce its carbon footprint.
*Images property of Casa Adela
MEXICO
MEXICO
Surfers. Escapists. Design lovers. Yogis.
Undiscovered Mexico. Cool serenity. Welcoming waves. Falling asleep in the shade of coconut palms. Ocean at your door.
Anytime! Note that rainy season is from July to October.
Lo Sereno Casa de Playa is a boutique oceanside retreat in Troncones, Mexico. With the Pacific Ocean on one side, Sierra Madre Mountains in the background, and an infinite unspoiled beach in your view, the hotel lives up to its name - The Serene Beach House.
Choose one of ten earth-coloured, modern tropical rooms, facing the ocean. Each room is complete with a bathroom patio, a wooden terrace, and colour schemes inspired by the surrounding nature.
Enjoy the open-air hangouts, the infinity pool, and picture-perfect sunsets. Let the time slow down and take in Troncones’ sleepy barefoot luxury.
Troncones is charming and quiet beach town, as well as a world-class surfing destination. Enjoy long stretches of virgin, uncrowded beaches. Go surfing in a place, where there are always waves somewhere along the coast. Watch pelicans dash in and out of water for their lunch or sea turtles laying eggs in the sand.
Gourmet Mexican cuisine. Fresh ceviche. Tacos & Tequila.
Troncones is 30 minutes from Zihuatanejo International Airport.
*Images property of Lo Sereno Casa de Playa
*By Vanessa Fuentes and Nada Lottermann for Design HotelsTM - Made By Originals
MEXICO
MEXICO
Lovers and friends looking for a private and uninterrupted getaway.
Falling in love again. Slowing down. Getting lost in each other to the sound of the waves hitting the rocks.
November to June.
La Casa Que Canta is a luxury boutique hotel, facing Zihuatanejo Bay in Ixtapa, Mexico. There are 25 private oceanfront suites to choose from, complete with terraces, breathtaking views, and plunge pools, only minutes away from the famous La Ropa beach.
Wander the property's lush gardens, cool off in the salt water infinity pool, take an afternoon nap in one of the hammocks, or simply enjoy the view in a place that was the setting for the film When a Man Loves a Woman.
Take part in Iyengar-Hatha yoga classes. Discover the charming fishing village of Zihuatanejo Bay. Spend the day at La Ropa. Go kayaking. Fish. Explore the local culture.
Zucchini blossoms stuffed with poblano chili, Italian squash and cream cheese. Tamales filled with slow-roasted pork. Fish fillet in banana leaf. Homemade lime sorbet.
The hotel is 20 minutes away from the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport.
La Casa Que Canta is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The hotel embraces its role as a guardian of the stunning coastal environment it calls home. To minimize its ecological footprint, La Casa Que Canta has implemented a range of green practices, from energy-efficient lighting and cooling systems to water conservation measures. Additionally, the hotel supports local artisans and sources much of its furnishings and decor from Mexican craftsmen, fostering a sense of cultural sustainability. La Casa Que Canta takes pride in the conservation of the lush surrounding landscape and strives to provide guests with a luxurious and eco-conscious experience, reminding them of the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the region for future generations.
*Images property of La Casa Que Canta
MEXICO
MEXICO
Artists. Musicians. Fishermen. Design lovers.
Creativity all around. Musical nights. White and wood accents. Views of the harbour and the sea beyond.
Best October to June.
Hotel El Ganzo is a unique boutique hotel at the base of the Puerto Los Cabos marina in San José del Cabo, Mexico. The retreat is unlike any beachside Mexican getaway you have experienced, celebrating creativity, diversity and culture. There are 70 custom-designed rooms, facing the Marina and the Sea of Cortez. The spacious Master Suites include a terrace and a Jacuzzi.
Relax and watch the horizon in one the Bali daybeds at the rooftop infinity pool. Visit the El Ganzo Spa, and try the Mezcal Ritual detox, complete with an agave scrube, mezcal lotion massage, and desert clay purification. Musicians will love the underground music studio and guests will love weekly live performances and art shows from visiting artists.
Lay out, paddle board or canoe at El Ganzo’s Beach Club. Do a bike tour around the marina. Go tequila tasting. Dive among the only living reef on the Pacific side at Cabo Pulmo. Visit Lovers Beach. Go whale watching.
Coconut mojitos. Chilaquiles for breakfast. Shrimp ceviche. Visit the Gachoo Sushi Bar if you are craving sashimi.
San Jose International Airport is 20 minutes away.
Hotel El Ganzo, Mexico's pioneering social enterprise, recently achieved a significant milestone by becoming the country's first hotel to obtain B Corp certification, marking its dedication to social and environmental responsibility. As part of this commitment, the hotel focuses on reducing inequality, poverty levels, and environmental impact while creating high-quality jobs and fostering a stronger community. Through initiatives in energy, water, waste management, carbon footprint reduction, and education, El Ganzo aims to address pressing global challenges while promoting sustainable practices.
In addition to its environmental efforts, El Ganzo prioritizes community support by emphasizing diversity, equality, and inclusion. The hotel's Community Center provides a space for local youth to explore their creativity and participate in educational activities, contributing to a stronger sense of community and economic empowerment. El Ganzo also prioritizes sourcing products from local suppliers, hiring and training staff locally, and supporting community initiatives such as GANZOAYUDA, a relief fund established during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist families in need.
Environmental sustainability is at the core of El Ganzo's operations, with initiatives ranging from energy-saving campaigns and waste management to ocean conservation efforts and the use of eco-friendly products. The hotel implements an Environmental Management System to monitor and reduce its environmental footprint, while also investing in renewable energy sources and adopting innovative technologies for water purification and waste reduction. Guests are encouraged to participate in these efforts through donations to the Community Center and supporting sustainable travel practices, furthering El Ganzo's mission of making a positive impact on both people and the planet.
*Photos property of El Ganzo