Hotel Esencia – Mayan Riviera, Mexico
Listed in “The World’s 50 Best Hotels”, Esencia has to be one of the most exclusive boutique resorts on the Mayan Riviera. Once the hideaway for Italian nobility, now a fabulously high-end retreat, it sits on the best stretch of beach around. So perfect in fact that turtles choose to lay their eggs here.
It is all contemporary hacienda style, with cool white interiors contrasted with pops of colour and filled with an enchanting mix of modern and antique furniture, most of which has been handpicked by the hotels owner, film producer Kevin Wendle. Set in 30 acres of tropical jungle, and lush gardens roamed by peacocks, it feels completely cut off from its surrounds, which is part of the charm. Mix this with exceptional service – you just need to press a button on your beach cabana, and a waiter will appear – exceptional and authentic cuisine and a sublime Spa, and you may just find you never venture out of the gates to explore the treasures around you.
At A Glance
Luxury Family Hotel
Why We Love It:
For its understated charm, cool interiors and the sense of escapism you feel the minute you arrive.Style:
Hacienda chic.Location:
On Xpu-Ha Bay on the Yucatán Peninsula – an hour from Cancun International airport (or quicker if you take the helicopter transfer), and 30 minutes from Tulum and its Mayan ruins.Rooms:
Sophisticated and airy suites and a private villa – some with plunge pools, and some right on the beach.Swimming:
Two ocean front pools, private plunge pools and the warm waters of the Caribbean.Children:
Si – absolutely.Accessibility:
There are no facilities for guests with mobility issues.Price:
Available on requestrooms
Choose from being enveloped by jungle, or right on the beach looking out over the ocean. The suites are vast and luxurious, with large terraces with daybeds and dining tables, outdoor showers and hammocks – some with rooftop terraces and 360 degree jungle views. And all with huge and very comfortable beds. The villas are positively splendid and very private, sleeping families and friends in total luxury.
food
The cuisine here takes its influence from each and every region of Mexico, with a dash of Mediterranean and Japanese flair, all with ingredients sourced from local producers. Mistura looks out over the Caribbean serving a delicious seafood menu, whilst Taiko is a sushi restaurant with a Mexican twist. And dine on succulent, cooked to order Wagyu steak at Beefbar. For a cooling drink, head for the Juice Bar, or be waited on hand and foot at the Beach Bar.
activities
Should you be able to rouse yourself from your cabana, the surrounding area is absolutely worth exploring. The Mayan ruins at Tulum are just half an hour away, and a day trip away, the famous site of Chichén Itzá. There are plenty of cenotes to visit, the nearby Río Secreto – a vast underground river with thousands of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, is a truly amazing spectacle.
Guided jungle walks reveal the local flora and fauna – the birdlife is exceptional, and a visit to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve will dazzle you with toucans and orioles. From the palm-fringed beach, there’s a host of non-motorised water sports available, and the diving and snorkeling will reward you with a myriad of marine life.
family
Despite Esencia having a very grown-up feel, families are very welcome. Some of the suites can accommodate an extra bed, and others can interconnect. The private villas are really the ultimate in family luxury, with everything you need on tap. The resort has a team of nannies and babysitting can be easily arranged. The beach gently slopes into calm waters, and one of the resort pools is dedicated just to families.
sustainability
Esencia strives to achieve responsible luxury, by helping to preserve the Mayan Riviera ecosystem. The resort is 100% powered by renewable energy; has water saving systems in place; donates any food excess and works with local ecology organisations for the protection of turtles.
Location
Hotel Esencia
On Xpu-Ha Bay on the Yucatán Peninsula – an hour from Cancun International airport (or quicker if you take the helicopter transfer), and 30 minutes from Tulum and its Mayan ruins.
