YUCATÁN Hacienda Luxury
Hacienda Rosas-Xocolates
For generations, travelers have been drawn to Yucatán’s archaeological sites and sunny, white sand beaches. Today, visitors can enrich their sense of place by staying at one of the Yucatán’s more than 50 restored haciendas, located in the Maya countryside just outside the capital city of Mérida. Haciendas were cattle, corn, sugarcane, and later sisal (henequen) working farms that flourished during the 1800s. When synthetic fibers came into fashion in the 1940s and the henequen boom ended, many haciendas faded to near ruin. Thankfully, resourceful owners have transformed the finest of these surviving estates beyond their 17th century glory, combining historic, traditional, and modern elements. Modern amenities include swimming pools, spas, fine dining, strolling gardens, and upscale services. Activities include cenote tours, birding and hiking along miles of isolated beaches (the Yucatán is home to more than 500 bird species, including the Caribbean flamingo), and excursions to nearby
ruins, the most famous of which is Chichén Itzá, a World Heritage site and modern world wonder. Most haciendas can be rented by the night or by the week, and are a perfect restorative retreat for singles and couples. They also provide a wonderful and homey atmosphere for holidays, weddings, reunions, and family gatherings. Here are five favorites, all of which practice sustainable tourism to preserve and give back to Maya culture. Hacienda Chichen and Yaxkin Spa Originally built in 1523, this hacienda is one of the area’s oldest and the Maya’s rich history is reflected in every corner. Chichen has it all —deluxe accommodations, fine dining, exquisite gardens, a Maya holistic healing
center, and cultural, culinary, and ecological activities. A leader in sustainability, in 2011 Chichen was named one of National Geographic Traveler’s Top 10 Eco-spa Wellness Destinations in North America. haciendachichen.com Hacienda Petac Built in the 17th century on the ruins of a Maya site, this five-bedroom hacienda combines luxury, service, and total privacy. Enjoy the spa and pool, outdoor yoga, Yucatecan cooking classes, and live music on the outdoor dining terrace. Guided tours take you birding, archaeological site-seeing, or to the area’s several “hidden” underwater caves. haciendapetac.com Hacienda Santa Rosa Formerly a nobleman’s private estate, this small, luxury hacienda is an enchanting private escape. It features spectacular architectural details, such as carved columns and hand-carved wood furniture, romantic room décor, and garden suites. Spa services, evening campfires, and attention to service enrich the guest experience. haciendasantarosa.com Hacienda Temozon Sur Discover the magic of the Maya world at this elegant hacienda, located just 25 miles from Mérida. All rooms and suites are named after their original function (the pharmacy, the school, etc.) and the restored architecture recalls its belle epoque past. Nap Maya style —hammocks are provided in every room— after a swim or tennis. Enjoy a stone massage and relax in a candlelit cenote at the Hol Be Spa. haciendatemozon.com Indulge in luxury and Maya charm at this 18-suite luxury property in Mérida, carefully restored in 2000, while pre-
Hacienda Ochil
Tekik Regil
serving the hacienda’s original concept of space, ambiance, ornamentation, and materials. It features a gourmet restaurant serving global cuisine, a swimming pool, spa services, and spacious gardens. xcanatun.com To find out more or to book your Yucatán vacation, go to yucatan.travel
Aeroméxico takes you to Mérida from Dallas visit aeromexicovacations.com or call 1.800.934.4488. To plan your unforgettable Yucatán escape, go to www.yucatan.travel
LIVE IT TO BELIEVE IT vis itmexico. com