Hotel Esencia
Travel down a dirt road that’s off the beaten track, ringed by a tropical Mayan jungle canopy until you reach the low-key, uber chic, beachside hideaway of Hotel Esencia. In a perfectly secluded point located on the immaculate bay of Xpu-Ha, Quintana Roo, Mexico, at a midpoint between Tulum and Playa del Carmen.
With pristine white sand and gardens to boast, this luxury boutique hotel was once the mansion home and party palace of the Italian duchess of Ferrari. A transformation from the hip hotelier, Kevin Wendle, and a multi-million dollar facelift, which now accommodates guests within 38 suites and 3 villas, all situated around the original Main House and hotel centrepiece. An appreciation of art and design is preferred but not compulsory as the hotel presents an impressive private collection with the likes of Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol and Eduardo Santier, and interior pieces designed by Pierre Jeanneret, Charlotte Perriand, Serge Mouille and Pierre Guariche.
The rooms which range from the garden canopy or panoramic ocean view are stylish and simple, entirely painted white and framed with dark-stained timber. Neatly styled with brightly coloured handwoven rugs, throws and a lust-worthy range of mid-century furniture. To top it off you are welcomed into the room with a customised playlist of music on the rooms iPod and Bose speakers and gifted a pair of Havaianas for holiday strolls around the property. And regardless of the booking, all rooms include a luxury a private balcony, encased in a palm frond roof; an ideal spot to enjoy an afternoon siesta whilst the tropical storm rolls past.
Guests can enjoy traditional cocktails or shots of mezcal and slices of orange at the outdoor bar before relaxing at the 400-metre private expanse of Xpu-Ha beach. When it reaches meal time the Mistura is a must, serving a fusion of Peruvian-Japanese dishes including freshly caught snapper steamed in a banana leaf or ceviche with local herbs and fruits. Flavours surely to send your palette into over-drive, and slightly more advanced than the guacamole and totopos consumed earlier by the pool.
Situated away from the hustle and bustle of the big resorts, Hotel Esencia is a rare gem combining the best of the culture, cuisine and comforts that Mexico has to offer. If its good enough for the frequently spotted Hollywood A-listers then say no more…
Credits: Hotel Esencia
Images via Hotel Esencia
