You had us at "former private hideaway home of an Italian duchess." Yeah. In fact, the Duchess of Ferrari, no less. And this place is definitely suited for royalty. Yes, from the past, but also the present.
Vibe
As the tourists tear down the highway heading South from Cancun to one of the many mega-resorts with their grand entrances, we wonder if they have any clue they just blew by one of the true diamonds in the rough in all of Mexico. Because down that unassuming dirt road, with little-to-no signage, lies a little something that the Greek Gods call Elysium.
We were dropped off at an unassuming check-in and soon after we hopped in a golf cart that took us down a winding path flanked with some of the thickest jungle fauna we have ever seen. Winding, winding, winding to a point where you feel the stress of the world slowly fading away. And then, after you pass a few of the Jungle Rooms the path opens up into a breathtaking courtyard. Everything is lush and green and perfect. We wanted to stop right there and spend the rest of the day lounging around in the outdoor seating areas that dotted the expansive area. But we pressed on (that doesn't sound dramatic, does it?).
The main house is simply gorgeous. Pristine white with every detail attended to. The picturesque beach has thatch bungalows that - get this - have a service button that, when pushed, somehow produce one of the nicest, most accommodating staff we've ever had the pleasure to meet. There is absolutely ZERO we would change.
Accommodations
We chose to stay in the main house and were fortunate enough to call a corner room with a plunge pool that was tucked away on the edge of the jungle, our home. The path led to an inviting porch with seating and hammock (plus a box where your breakfast would magically show up in the mornings).
And then. You slide the doors open.
The rooms are an OCD's happy place. The walls were so white, we don't even know what to call them. Bright? Pristine? Whitey-white? The answer is yes. And what's even better is that the floor glides into the walls which glides into the ceiling. There are no corners or hard lines, which force your eyes to focus on the simple, beautiful details that tie it all together. It's a room we never wanted to leave.
Fare and Glass
Hotel Esencia offers a fair amount of dining options for its small footprint. But the common theme is fresh, simple and beautiful dishes that highlight the Yucatan region. The open air Misturia restaurant offers up beachfront views to take in while your meal is being prepared on a wood-fire grill. Cafe Esencia is more laid-back and a great place for breakfast, lunch or dinner, pulling from seasonal ingredients for a straight-forward (read: more familiar) menu. Everyone in your party can easily find something they love among the options of salads and sandwiches, fresh fish, tacos, and ceviches.
The star of the show is Beefbar. From the website: Beefbar Esencia – Xpu-ha, Mexico is a true epicurean experience thanks to a menu based on simplicity, the finest high-quality ingredients, and a selection of exceptional meat cuts from Australian Black Onyx and Wx Wagyu beef, and Certified Japanese Kobe beef. Simple, comfort food delicacies prepared to order in our open kitchen and brick oven. Located in the gorgeous Palm Garden, the surroundings are equal to the amazing service. It was easily one of the best meals we've experienced South of the Border.
And we'd be remiss to not mention the Beach Bar. Boasting a LARGE selection of spirits - and their own take on the classics like mojitos and margs - you absolutely must sample their house cocktails, which pair perfectly with the warm sea breeze and a gaze out into the foreverness across the water. But the best part? If you're staring at the bottom of an empty glass while you're lazing around in your beach chair, all you have to do is reach up and press a button. Seconds later, you're greeted quietly by your new best friend who will gladly bring you another, or make a suggestion on where you should drink from here...
The Verdict
Hotel Esencia is easily our favorite hotel in all of Mexico. When I ask Mrs. Jones what she likes about it, you can see her organizing a long list in her head. I think we love it because they do simple elegance so very well. The attention to detail is beyond compare and you get the feeling that everything has a place and a purpose to delight your senses. The staff is incredible and we never had to ask for a thing because they are masters at anticipating your every need.
Esencia is a delight. And a place that we will be returning to again and again. It will seduce you from your very first encounter and linger in your memories long after you're back to your real life. But the best part is that now you're a part of a secret place that just the thought of will bring a grin to your face.
Comments