In a nutshell: A luxurious and secluded taste of paradise that oozes cool.
The neighbourhood
Just off the main road that runs along Quintana Roo’s Caribbean coastline, from the tacky excess of Cancun to the oversaturated hippy chic of Tulum, Hotel Esencia (and its accompanying 50-acre estate) is tucked in a verdant jungle setting that leads through to its own private stretch of beach.
Villas are set in a 50-acre estate
(Tanveer Badal Photography / TANVEERBADAL.COM)
Upon arriving by car, guests are relieved of their luggage by one of the immaculately presented staff members, before being transported by golf cart through the calm-inducing tropical gardens in which the hotel’s collection of 45 suites are situated.
The look
Given its palatial feel, it comes as no surprise to learn that the site was originally constructed as the private hideaway of an Italian duchess.
We stayed in one of the ‘jungle suites’, featuring a plunge pool within a terrace solarium.
Whitewalls are offset by contemporary style
(Hotel Esencia)
Inside the self-contained building, décors contrast white walls – ideal for keeping interiors cool despite the sweltering heat – with dark wood trimmings, while furniture and artwork are contemporary in style.
The ‘Main House’ acts as the site’s architectural centrepiece, surrounded by perfectly manicured lawns and palm trees.
The vibe
The huge iguanas, seen lounging on the edges of the gardens as guests make their way through to the golden sands of the private beach, encapsulate the relaxing atmosphere of the hotel.
Staff are exactly the right degree of friendly, and all seem to have mastered the rare art of tending to guests’ needs while keeping service informal; it all adds up to ensure the grandeur of the surroundings never leaves you feeling claustrophobic.
We’d originally planned to spend some of our time visiting local sights and attractions; in fact, the tranquillity of the setting ensured we didn’t leave the grounds once until check out.
Bed and bath
The spacious main room led out on to an enclosed front terrace (where we tended to end up at the end of most evenings, sprawled out on the tasteful outdoor furniture), while walk-in wardrobes offered more space for clothing than we were ever likely to need.
Some villas come with private pools
(Tanveer Badal Photography / TANV)
In the bathroom, an array of luxe complimentary toiletries are available, along with a double shower with rainfall shower head.
The layout of the hotel…
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