8 DREAMY BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN MEXICO
Image courtesy of Nômade Holbox
There’s something special about boutique hotels — their intimacy, idiosyncrasy, and warm, personalized service. The best boutique hotels have a unique vibe and a distinct personality. And there are few destinations with as impressive a concentration of such under-the-radar gems as Mexico.
From a renovated hacienda in Yucatán to a Mexico City design hotel, the best boutique hotels in Mexico mirror the rich culture and vibrancy of their surroundings. Throw in an eye for local art, stellar gastronomy and out-of-this-world wellness programs and you’ve got yourself a five-star hotel wrapped in a delightfully eccentric, detail-oriented package. I couldn’t think of a better place to stay.
Read on for some of the best boutique hotels in Mexico. I'm already planning my trip. See you there?
NÔMADE HOLBOX, HOLBOX ISLAND
Image courtesy of Nômade Holbox
This eco-friendly wellness getaway on Holbox Island, just off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a boutique hotel lover’s dream. The 30 rooms (which include treehouses, no less) were constructed with local, sustainable wood, and the interiors are modern and breezy: think canvas walls, copper tubs, natural linens, outdoor showers (always a plus), and nature-inspired decor.
Dine on regenerative organic cuisine, dance to live music (music is a big part of Nômade’s collection of boutique hotels), take a sunrise boat trip with a bird expert, and activate your pineal gland during sunset...the activities encourage guests to connect more deeply with their bodies and spirits. And I can’t get enough. There are ample one-on-one experiences to choose from, too. I'm partial to Nômade’s astral chart readings and personalized acupuncture/bodywork sessions.
And if Tulúm is calling your name (when is it not?), complement your wellness getaway with a stay at one of Nômade’s other gorgeous hotels: Nômade Tulum and Be Tulum, both of which also combine nourishing cuisine, sustainable practices and holistic wellness offerings.
Fora Perks:
Food/beverage credit
Welcome amenity
Breakfast daily
CASA DE SIERRA NEVADA, A BELMOND HOTEL, SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE
Image courtesy of Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel, San Miguel de Allende
Nestled within a collection of historic Spanish Colonial buildings along a charming street in the heart of San Miguel de Allende, Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel, offers a unique experience with only 37 rooms and suites. It blends the amenities of a large hotel with the ambiance of upscale apartments. Staying true to the Belmond brand, the hotel provides lavish amenities such as fantastic authentic dining, a lovely spa, and a beautiful pool and gardens, offering a distinctive travel experience that truly embodies Mexico.
While each building of this luxury hotel is quiet, serene, and positioned away from the street, you are just a short distance from San Miguel's main square and all the attractions this enchanting city has to offer. If your room is located away from the main building, you can stroll over in the morning for breakfast or opt to have it delivered directly to your room.
Fora perks:
By booking with me, you’ll automatically receive benefits at all Belmond Bellini Club hotels & resorts worldwide, such as perks & upgrades. Perks vary by property but may include:
VIP welcome treats
Breakfast daily
Priority for room upgrade
$90 hotel/resort credit per room
$200 hotel/resort credit per suite
Unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi
HOTEL ESENCIA, XPU HÁ
Image courtesy of Hotel Esencia
A list of the best boutique hotels in Mexico would be incomplete without Hotel Esencia, on the Riviera Maya. This special property is housed in the former home of an Italian duchess, blissfully secluded from the more touristy parts of Quintana Roo.
A stay here is entirely customized to each guest, but a few experiential highlights include kayaking in a nearby hidden cove (home to manatees!), exploring Yucatán by helicopter, experiencing a traditional temazcal ceremony, snorkeling with sea turtles, and diving among the world’s second-largest coral reef.
The food is meticulously sourced, simply prepared and masterfully executed. The white-sand beach comes straight from a postcard. The organic spa mixes hand-harvested ingredients for the most rejuvenating treatments. The gorgeous rooms — each with a hammock-equipped private terrace — are tastefully designed. If it sounds perfect, that’s because it is!
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel/resort credit
Welcome amenity
Breakfast daily
Room upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible
CONDESA DF, MEXICO CITY
Image courtesy of Condesa DF
This boutique hotel, on the border of CDMX's vibrant Condesa and Roma neighborhoods, is housed in a restored early-20th-century building that blends Art Deco architecture with contemporary design. The rooms are sleek, minimalist, and spacious, reflecting the stylish vibe of the surrounding neighborhood.
Enjoy a cocktail on the lush rooftop terrace, with panoramic views of the neighborhood. Then, head down to the hotel's on-site restaurant for a delectable meal of sushi (with a unique Mexican flair, of course) prepared by Japanese chef Keisuke Harada.
Condesa DF's prime location is unmatched. Guests are steps away from the city's most stunning architecture, chic galleries, charming boutiques, and world-class restaurants. It's a delightful haven in the heart of the city.
Fora Perks:
Welcome note & amenity
Breakfast daily
Room upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible
CHABLÉ YUCATÁN, CHOCHOLÁ
Image courtesy of Chablé Yucatán
Imagine starting your day with a cenote-side yoga class followed by fresh-pressed green juice and a breakfast sourced from the organic garden steps away from your table. Sound like a dream? It is. Welcome to Chablé Yucatán, a hacienda-turned-luxury-hotel, about 30 minutes outside Mérida, Yucatán’s capital city.
Much of the hacienda’s original architecture remains, and is beautifully incorporated into the property’s sleek, modern design: think steel beams, stone archways, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and colorful tiles. Guests stay in private casitas, each with its own swimming pool, and decorated with locally sourced materials.
Spa treatments are enjoyed in private cabins that circle the cenote below (Naturopathica facial, anyone?) and begin with a purifying foot ritual accompanied by a traditional cacao drink. Much of the hotel’s activities — cooking classes, cacao workshops, a Melipona bee ceremony led by a shaman — celebrate Mayan culture and heritage. Pro tip: opt for the private tequila tasting. After all, Chablé has one of the world’s most extensive mezcal and tequila collections in the world.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel/resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
IGNACIA GUEST HOUSE, MEXICO CITY
Image courtesy of Ignacia Guest House
Ignacia Guest House is the creme de la creme of B&Bs nestled in the sought-after Colonia Roma, smack dab in the beating heart of Mexico City. Mixing up a rich tapestry of history, Mexican craftsmanship and modern flair, Ignacia Guest House is a hidden gem reserved for the savviest globetrotters. The name pays homage to Ignacia, who dedicated 70 years of her life as the caretaker of this majestic 1913 estate.
Renowned for its stellar interior design, architecture, and restoration work, Ignacia Guest House offers guests a respite from the hustle and bustle of this thriving capital city. Here you’ll find gardens and tranquil spaces perfect for savoring a delicious breakfast in the morning or sipping cocktails during afternoon happy hour.
Ignacia features nine suites, each uniquely decorated and equipped with Nespresso machines, artisanal bottled water, Loredana toiletries and Bluetooth sound by Bose.
NAVIVA®, A FOUR SEASONS RESORT, PUNTA MITA
Wellness seems to be a theme among Mexico’s best boutique hotels. And Naviva, one of the best hotels in Mexico, does wellness like no other. Although it's a Four Seasons property, it takes a (out-of-this-world) boutique approach. This hideaway consists of 15 luxury tents (the max occupancy of the entire resort is 30 people) spread out among 48 acres of lush jungle overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The private patios are primed for relaxation: each comes equipped with a hammock, plunge pool, and outdoor shower.
But no visit to Naviva would be complete without enjoying one of their signature experiences. Choose from a shamanic sound healing session, a traditional temazcal ceremony, a five-hour regenerative spa ritual (really!), a stargazing safari, and more.
End your day with a meal cooked by open fire at Copal Cocina, Naviva’s signature on-site restaurant. Or, opt for a private beachfront picnic, in-tent dining, or an especially romantic meal with a personalized chef-driven menu. You really can’t go wrong.
Fora Perks:
When you book Four Seasons with a Fora Advisor, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities. I will be pleased to give you more details.
COLIMA 71, MEXICO CITY
Image courtesy of Colima 71
Colima 71, an art-obsessed getaway in Mexico City’s vibrant Roma neighborhood, features mid-century pieces and contemporary art to create an atmosphere equal parts refined and playful, drawing you in with its effortless style.
The 16 tasteful guest rooms feature sumptuous linens, curated artwork, modern kitchens, and luxe bathrooms with rainfall showers. But the common spaces are just as inviting and chic. Grab a cuppa from the hotel’s coffee bar or a shot of tequila from the honesty bar before cozying up with your favorite book in one of the lobby’s reading nooks. Or, lounge by the fire pit in Colima’s courtyard as you marvel at the 40-foot modern art installation.
Plus, Colima 71’s prime location makes it the perfect home base for exploring. The hotel’s knowledgable, uber-friendly staff has all the connections and can recommend everything from the trendiest spots to sip a cocktail to the best under-the-radar hot spots only the locals know about.
Dreaming of a Mexican getaway? Reach out for top-notch planning, booking, and all the spicy insider secrets!
