Sue Grimwood
I was inspired to travel south from an early age. My form teacher when I was nine made us listen to tapes from Shackleton’s expeditions, I didn’t know it at the time, but it obviously left a deep impression on my psyche.
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The most authentic way to appreciate Yucatan’s rich history is to stay in one of the unique hacienda’s. Built upon the vast profits amassed from the production of sisal, a fibre that became known as “green gold”, the haciendas hark back to an opulent and privileged past.
The invention of synthetic fibres and post-revolution land re-distribution left many haciendas to crumble into ruin, but a number have recently been restored and converted into stunning luxury hotels.
Our Mexico experts have created and curated these holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something to spark ideas for a unique adventure.
Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.
Hacienda San José built in 1888 by Francisco Mejia Jaramillo, great grandfather of the current owners is one of the most ancient and better-preserved houses in the Yucatan Peninsular. The hacienda is a traditional house of the ‘eje cafetero’ whose history dates back three centuries and is evidenced in its construction and furnishings. A journey back in time, in this coffee producing area, is triggered by the fine period decoration of the social areas and eleven bedrooms with private bathrooms. This boutique hotel also offers a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, massage and anti-stress treatments, a restaurant with international cuisine and horseback rides upon request.
Hacienda Xcanatun is a small luxury hotel located just north of the town of Merida, in the heart of the Maya world. 18 suites are surrounded by three acres of tropical gardens, ponds and fountains. The suites are lavishly furnished in an English Colonial style, have spacious bathrooms, air-conditioning, fans and a minibar. Many of the rooms also have large verandas with Yucatecan hammocks and a patio with an outdoor Jacuzzi. There are two unique and refreshing swimming pools and spa services available. The menu is excellent and comprises of an international – Caribbean Haute Cuisine with Yucatecan specialities.
Hacienda Uayamon is an old 18th Century ranch and henequen plantation characterised by its imposing stone archways and towering columns. Situated within easy reach of the Maya ruins of Edzna and the walled town of Campeche, Hacienda Uayamon provides a peaceful retreat in a classic colonial setting.
San Antonio ranks as one of Mexico’s finest haciendas and prides itself on offering a highly personalised service. This historic 1890 hacienda is located at the base of a volcano in the picturesque Mexican highlands, ideal conditions for growing Arabica coffee that the original owners exported to the German Imperial family. All 25 suites are impeccably furnished and decorated with art from some of the country’s most renowned artisans. Fine dining is available with most ingredients being grown or reared on the property. There is a large open-air pool and activities include horse riding, mountain biking, birdwatching, nature walks, tennis or simply soaking up the beauty of the hacienda and its location.
Once a privately-owned estate, the Hacienda Temozon is now a beautiful hotel that has been sympathetically created out of the original plantation house and gardens and retains much of its original character. Its 26 rooms are laid-out amongst extensive grounds – also home to a restaurant, a gymnasium, and a large swimming pool. The Hacienda is perfectly located for excursions to the nearby Mayan ruins and the bustling colonial town of Merida.
Once a 19th-century working hacienda, Chable Resort & Spa is now a beautiful hotel nestled amidst 750 acres of tropical forests. Clean, cool limestone walls sit alongside original hacienda features, rustic Mayan architecture and contemporary wood panelling. The 38 casitas and 2 spacious villas look out over the Mayan forest and all have a pool as well as an outdoor shower and terrace with hammock. Retreat to the poolside or indulge in a spa treatment in magical jungle surroundings.
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
I was inspired to travel south from an early age. My form teacher when I was nine made us listen to tapes from Shackleton’s expeditions, I didn’t know it at the time, but it obviously left a deep impression on my psyche.
Over multiple trips, John has immersed himself in the natural and cultural highlights of this huge country. He has had close encounters with grey whales off Baja’s Pacific coast, swam with whale sharks in the Caribbean, attended shaman rituals in Chiapas and sought out some of Mexico City’s finest Mezcalerias.
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