A secluded beachfront paradise and why early site visits energise me
We are back from Mexico and I tell you everything about Hotel Esencia ! #41
It’s already been more than a week since we came back from our winter sun holiday in Mexico but the benefits linger…
The hotel was beautiful, as those of you who followed the chat saw, and the weather was lovely, albeit a bit windy towards the end. Days passed by the seaside or by the pool were a treat and provided us with a lot of Vitamin D. But what really re-energised me was being in a new environment and exploring the culture.
I felt particularly alive the morning we went to visit Tulum. Arriving just before 8 am on the site reminded me of when my parents would take us to visit places or when I travelled in my twenties, hungry for discovery. I was not alone: the majority of the early risers that morning were French! I think all French families try to see the historical places next to their holiday location if they can.
We’re nearing the end of February and there are already signs of nature getting itself ready for Spring: a different quality of light, earlier sunrise, a few trees starting to blossom.. And that’s what a winter sun holiday gave us: skipping the long cold winter and jumping right into the longer warmer (it’s all relative especially here in London) days.
What is it that particularly re-energise you on holidays? I would love to know
On the blog
Hotel Esencia ultimate review
If you ever consider going to Riviera Maya, I highly recommend Hotel Esencia and I provided all the info in this review, including a warning about Sargassum. Read more
The map of the hotel to help you choose the room
As promised in the blog post, here is a map so that you can see where the different rooms are in relation to the beach or the jungle. We were in room 1601.
Extra finds
Auberge Basque, France
From 164 Euros Check latest prices and availability
Located just a few miles from the Basque coast and facing Mount Larrun, the Auberge Basque features 12 guest rooms. Entirely refurbished by Marion and Cédric Béchade, they provide exceptional comfort, in harmony with the natural surroundings. There is a one Michelin star restaurant.
The Windsor , Italy
From 189 Euros Check latest prices and availability
In Liguria, Italy, this hotel has been given a new life. Fostering the rich heritage of the area, this elegant building celebrates an architectural style typical for the Riviera. A dash of subtle colors outside gives way to an open-floor layout that is brightly augmented by large floor-to-ceiling windows opening to the sea. There are 25 rooms, a private beach, gourmet restaurant and a bar, as well as a gym.
La Butte, Brittany
From 217 Euros Check latest prices and availability
The outside of the hotel is a modern building with not much charm but there are great views out to the sea over the countryside. 33 rooms with a sea view, in the intimate atmosphere of a guesthouse, in Finistère, Brittany. There is also a spa with an indoor pool and a gastronomic Michelin restaurant.
Acro Suites, Crete
From 500 £ - Check latest prices and availability
Acro Suites has an effortlessly chilled vibe and a dramatic clifftop location. There are 49 villas and suites each peering out to sea through aluminium-framed windows, and in the Cave suites, carved rock spaces created by Cretan sculptors open to the outside and cocoon private infinity pools.
La Planque en Perche, Normandy
From 130 euros Check latest prices and availability
In the heart of the nature of the Perche hills, La Planque is an establishment focused on well-being and rest. Local products and organic wines in the restaurant and 3 bedrooms with a lovely view of the Perche.