After a long and rewarding day exploring the wonders of Yucatán, there is nothing quite like arriving at a little piece of heaven to rest and recharge—a place you can call home, if only for a night. But what makes a "piece of heaven" perfect? The answer depends on your personal travel style. Here is a glimpse into unique stays in México that are destinations all on their own.
Luxury hotels
Casa K’acaya in Espita: Luxury At Your Own Pac
The Magical Town of Espita invites you to slow down, and Casa K’acaya embodies that philosophy perfectly. This boutique hotel is a sanctuary designed to help you disconnect from the daily grind and treat yourself to a genuine pause—the kind that feels like a deep, restorative breath.
Housed in a meticulously preserved 1920s manor, Casa K’acaya blends original architecture with contemporary details that honor the building's spirit. Here, time seems to follow a different rhythm. The hotel features six rooms, each inspired by a natural element or energy—sea, air, earth, or fire—showcasing wood finishes, nature views, private terraces, and walk-in showers that tempt you to linger. The journey continues in the common areas, where the outdoor pool and lush gardens provide the perfect backdrop for simply being present.
Since November, the hotel has also been home to Pavos K’acaya, a mural by artist Cristóbal Sarro created specifically for this space. The artwork explores the interior landscapes of Yucatán—jungle, cenotes, and wildlife—through a visual narrative inspired by the ocellated turkey, bridging the symbolic and the natural in a delicate dance of light and shadow.
The culinary experience is anchored by Casa K’, the hotel's restaurant (also open to the public). The menu reinterprets traditional Yucatecan flavors with a gourmet touch and a strong commitment to local producers. Signature dishes like cochinita pibil, sikil p'aak, and huevos motuleños share the spotlight with a creative cocktail list featuring habanero margaritas and chaya mojitos.
Rates vary by season, ranging from approximately $3,000 to $6,000 pesos per night. Casa K’acaya is the ultimate destination for those seeking design, fine dining, and a meaningful connection with their surroundings—unhurried and intentional. —S.A.
Casa K’acaya
Calle 26 #200 x 23 y 25, Centro, Espita
Tel. 986 114 2633
IG: casa_kacaya
FB: Casa K’acaya
Casona Los Cedros: Elegance and legacy in the heart of Espita
Casona Los Cedros is one of the most sophisticated lodging projects in the Magical Town of Espita. This boutique destination seamlessly integrates two complementary visions: CEDROS, the hotel, and CASONA, the restaurant and bar. Together, they celebrate local history through contemporary design and a culinary philosophy deeply rooted in the Yucatán landscape.
The restored building lived several lives before becoming what it is today: it was first the home of a prominent local family and later a popular village cantina. Today, that vibrant past is reflected in a renovated architectural style that honors its historical essence while offering elegant, modern spaces.
CEDROS, the boutique hotel, features eight rooms designed using traditional techniques and local materials such as natural fibers, chukum, certified wood, and a lime-based color palette that brings freshness and harmony. At the heart of the property, a pool surrounded by lush vegetation serves as a perfect oasis for rest and contemplation.
The dining experience at CASONA, led by Chef Jorge Ildefonso, focuses on seasonal ingredients from their own garden and local producers. The menu is a contemporary tribute to regional flavors, featuring standouts like smoked cerdo pelón (hairless pig) from Sucilá, local squash tacos, and charred ibes (local bean) tamales. In 2025, CASONA was recognized by Culinaria Mexicana as one of the top 250 restaurants in México. The restaurant is open to the public, though advanced reservations are required.
CEDROS, the boutique hotel, features eight rooms designed using traditional techniques and local materials such as natural fibers, chukum, certified wood, and a lime-based color palette that brings freshness and harmony. At the heart of the property, a pool surrounded by lush vegetation serves as a perfect oasis for rest and contemplation.
The project’s commitment to regional craftsmanship is showcased in its boutique, which features Uayma ceramics, Espita embroidery, and handmade hammocks. Rates at CEDROS start at approximately $3,200 pesos per night for a standard room and go up to $5,500 pesos for a double, with breakfast included. It is important to note that the hotel welcomes guests aged 12 and older, making it an ideal choice for peaceful getaways and contemplative stays. —S.A.
Casona Los Cedros
Calle 26 #199 x 23 y 25 Centro, Espita
WA: 986 114 3220
Hacienda Santa Rosa: A sanctuary of history and well-being
The year has just begun, and if you already feel the need for a breather, there is no better plan than seeking refuge in a hacienda. But not just any hacienda, and not merely for a quick tour—the true magic lies in staying there. This is why Hacienda Santa Rosa exists: a destination that masterfully blends Maya heritage with Yucatecan tradition.
Located just minutes from Maxcanú, southwest of Mérida, this former henequén estate is now an exclusive boutique hotel where peace and charm reign supreme. Its façades preserve the original architecture, and during its meticulous restoration, ancestral techniques and materials were recovered to honor the splendor of the past while integrating subtle contemporary touches.
Among its most breathtaking spaces is the Main House, with its iconic sky-blue façade; a pool that seems plucked from a period film; and historical ruins that coexist with a lush botanical garden. The rooms and suites are designed for ultimate privacy and luxury, featuring private terraces and individual plunge pools with privileged views of the Yucatán landscape.
The experience is enhanced by wellness services at the Santa Rosa Spa, which offers everything from body scrubs to traditional Maya "sobadas" (healing massages). The on-site restaurant serves regional cuisine made with organic ingredients, which go great with a tour of the kitchen’s gardens. You can also sign up for expert-led birdwatching or botanical garden tours.
If you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in the local Maya culture, Hacienda Santa Rosa also offers tours to the artisan workshops it supports through its very own Fundación Haciendas del Mundo Maya. This is a wonderful opportunity to see how local handcrafts made of henequén fiber or filigree jewelry are made. You can also see the finished products on display (and available for sale, of course) throughout the Hacienda, directly supporting fair trade in the region.
Walking through its paths is to feel time stand still. If you have the chance, treat yourself and experience 2026 in one of the most beautiful haciendas in México. —C.G.
Hacienda Santa Rosa
IG: thehaciendas
Hacienda San José: A meeting point for history and community soul
There is something profoundly special about staying in a hacienda: that feeling of traveling back in time and walking among walls steeped in history without sacrificing contemporary comfort. At Hacienda San José, located just minutes from Tixkokob and less than 45 minutes from Mérida, this experience is particularly authentic. Beyond its stunning façade and the lush nature that surrounds it, what truly sets it apart is its deep connection to the local community and the traditions that pulse through its daily life. Here, a stay is more than just rest; it is an immersion into a way of life.
Each room holds a different story, linked to the original role it played within the estate. However, the journey goes beyond the private space: as a historical site, San José is filled with legends and memories brought to life by those who know them best: the local people. The historical tour provides insight into the significance this place held—and continues to hold—for Yucatán, offering a unique perspective that completely transforms the visit.
The pace of the stay adapts to every traveler. For those seeking to disconnect, the spa offers treatments inspired by Maya herbalism and the ancestral knowledge of local women. On the other hand, for those with an adventurous spirit, the “Sal a Pajarear” (Go Birdwatching) experience invites you to welcome the sunrise in the jungle alongside a local expert, guiding you through the observation of endemic birds that inhabit the area.
The destination also features a regional restaurant, traditional cooking workshops, and various excursions to nearby sites. All that, in addition, of course, to the extraordinary beauty of the hacienda itself and its views, like the gardens, pools, etc.
Waking up in a place like this, surrounded by history, nature, and community, is a different way to travel through México: a leisurely encounter with the past lived fully in the present.—S.C.
Hacienda San José
IG: thehaciendas
Cabins
Casa Jaguar: A Maya casita amidst jungle and cenotes in Tecoh
Arriving at Casa Jaguar is a direct invitation to slow down and reconnect with the essentials. This former Maya cottage, built with traditional ripio (stone) walls, has been thoughtfully restored to preserve its original essence while providing the necessary comforts for a cozy stay. It is an ideal getaway for couples or friends seeking an authentic experience in Yucatán.
The house is equipped with a fan, a television, a small dining area, a microwave, and a minibar. Free of excessive luxury, the space shines through its excellent natural ventilation and simple touches that make for a pleasant visit. It is, in every sense, a place designed for true rest.
One of the greatest perks of staying here is that the rate includes access to the Pájaro Toh Cenote and the George de la Selva water park, located just five minutes away. From the moment you enter, nature envelops you: towering trees, lush green paths, and, if you're lucky, sightings of the iconic turquoise-browed motmot (pájaro toh). The cave-style cenote features lighting that allows you to appreciate its beauty while enjoying a swim. Additionally, the park offers two bio-pools and a more private swimming area.
For dining, the on-site restaurant serves regional staples like poc chuc, along with seafood and specialty cocktails—the espresso martini comes highly recommended. After a night of absolute peace, I suggest having breakfast at the García Buela Market (founded in 1923) to savor traditional regional snacks. Tecoh also serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the many other cenotes that dot this region of México. —D.V.
Casa Jaguar
Calle 28 x 35 y 37, Tecoh, Yucatán
Tel. 999 296 8977
$1,250 pesos per cabin for two
El Prado: A natural sanctuary to reconnect with the outdoors
Located in Xocchel, Yucatán—”the place where magpies are counted”—less than an hour from Mérida and close to the famous Ring of Cenotes, El Prado offers a blend of cabins and country houses. It has quickly become a well-kept secret for those seeking nature, rest, and authentic experiences far from the crowds of mass tourism.
Surrounded by 25 hectares of lush vegetation, El Prado is designed for families, groups of friends, and travelers looking to unplug from the fast-paced city life without sacrificing comfort. Best of all, it is a pet-friendly destination, making it the perfect getaway for those who want their four-legged companions to join the adventure.
The property features three distinct country houses, each harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape:
- Casa Maya: Noted for its rustic charm and deep connection to the region's cultural heritage.
- Casa Rancho: Offers a warm, familiar atmosphere, perfect for gathering and sharing stories.
- Casa Calabazo: The most spacious option, providing ample room and privacy for larger groups.
Altogether, the property can accommodate up to 15 guests and is equipped with modern essentials like Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The common areas are thoughtfully designed for both relaxation and recreation, featuring two swimming pools, a playground, a soccer field, a bonfire pit, and extensive walking trails.
Staying at El Prado in Xocchel also means immersing yourself in local culture. Guests can reserve traditional Yucatán meals prepared by a traditional cook or participate in workshops led by local artisans. For families traveling with little ones, the property even offers babysitting services, adding thoughtful value to a truly authentic Mexican experience. —D.V.
El Prado
Km 1 Carr. Xocchel - Hocabá, Xocchel, Yucatán
Tel. 999 409 8663
IG: elprado.mx
Hacienda Sotuta de Peón: A Journey Through Time with Modern Luxury
Staying at Hacienda Sotuta de Peón is much more than just a place to sleep; it is a deep immersion into the living history of Yucatán. Known as the "Living Hacienda," this estate offers guests the unique opportunity to stay surrounded by the henequén fields that were once the economic heart of México.
The rooms are designed to honor colonial architecture while providing the comforts of a high-end luxury hotel. From high, airy ceilings to exquisite stone and wood accents, every space invites total relaxation. However, the property’s true crown jewel lies underground: the Dzul-Ha Cenote. As a guest, you can enjoy its crystal-clear waters in an atmosphere of absolute peace, away from the hustle of daily tour groups.
Complementa tu estancia explorando la casa principal o disfrutando de la gastronomía regional en su restaurante. La mejor parte, sin embargo, es el tesoro de la hacienda; no, no es el oro verde, sino un tesoro que se encuentra bajo tierra: el Cenote Dzul-Ha. Al ser huésped, puedes disfrutar de sus aguas cristalinas en un ambiente de paz absoluta, lejos de las multitudes de los tours diarios.
Complete your stay by exploring the main house or savoring regional cuisine at their on-site restaurant. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a cultural retreat, Sotuta de Peón provides a perfect balance between Maya heritage, the opulence of the "green gold" era, and contemporary comfort. —Y.T.
Hacienda Sotuta de Peón
Municipio de Tecoh, Yucatán
Tel. 999 941 6431
Tel. 999 941 6441
WhatsApp: 999 175 9923
ventas@haciendaviva.com
U Najil Ek Balam: A Sustainable Lodging Experience
The Cabañas Ecológicas Ek Balam tourist center is a sustainable lodging option managed by a local Mayan cooperative, dedicated to promoting low-impact rural tourism. Located in the village of Ek Balam—right next to the archaeological site—the cabins are less than two kilometers from Cenote Xcanché, one of the most breathtaking cenotes in the eastern Mayan region.
The site features 12 traditional "cabins," which are actually ancestral houses known as xa’anil naj in the Mayan language. These structures are prime examples of vernacular architecture: sustainable, resilient, and timeless. Each room can accommodate up to four people and is constructed using large wooden poles, huano palm thatched roofs (Sabal mexicana), and wooden walls finished with stone, mud, or cement. This traditional design is enhanced with modern comforts, including hot showers, various bed sizes, fans, high-speed internet, and mosquito nets to ensure a pleasant and comfortable stay.
Amenities and Services. In addition to the traditional eco-rooms, Cabañas U Najil Ek Balam offers:
- Camping Area: Includes access to communal bathrooms.
- Temazcal: A traditional Mayan steam bath for relaxation and ritual.
- Restaurant: Serving authentic Mayan and Yucatecan cuisine, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request.
Community Tours and Cultural Immersion. To truly connect with the local lifestyle, guests can join several community-led tours:
- The Mayan Milpa: Learn about ancestral agricultural techniques.
- Culinary Workshops: Make handmade tortillas, regional dishes, and chukwa’ (traditional chocolate).
- Artisan Workshops: Try your hand at hammock weaving or traditional embroidery.
- Nature & Adventure: Enjoy guided bike rides or hikes to learn about native plants, go birdwatching, or practice nature photography.
- Xcanché & History: Visit the Xcanché cenote for ziplining and explore the stunning Ek Balam Archaeological Zone.
The Ek Balam ecotourism center is a hidden gem in the heart of the Mayan jungle—a unique opportunity to connect with nature and local culture. Finally, please remember that Ek Balam is a living Mayan community; we ask that you respect local customs and traditions and always seek the guidance of local experts. —L.C.T.
Tel. 985 106 8738
Glamping
Destino Mío: Luxury glamping in the capital of the guayabera
There are places you visit not just to sleep, but to truly slow down. That was my experience at Destino Mío, a sanctuary where nature isn't just a backdrop—it’s the main protagonist. Located just outside the beautiful town of Tekit, famously known as the "Guayabera Capital," Destino Mío offers high-end luxury rooms as well as a sophisticated glamping (glamour + camping) experience. It’s the perfect way to enjoy direct contact with the outdoors without the "roughing it" typically associated with tents and sleeping bags.
The glamping sites at Destino Mío are carefully distributed to honor the environment and ensure privacy, forming a small village designed for self-reconnection and comfort. With options ranging from two to six guests, it is an ideal getaway for couples, friends, or families looking for a different kind of adventure. Additionally, the property features a dedicated bonfire area—the perfect spot for sharing stories as night falls.
Sleeping here means resting under a canopy of stars and waking up to the symphony of local birds. Stepping out onto the terrace to watch the morning light transform the landscape is a ritual in itself. Each space balances design, functionality, and warmth, featuring private bathrooms with hot water, natural ventilation, and thoughtful details that make the stay cozy and seamless within its surroundings.
One of my personal highlights was climbing the El Ojo lookout point to witness a truly spectacular sunset. The property is also home to Cenote Emil, a natural gift perfect for refreshing the body and clearing the mind. Every corner offers something to discover: from the garden-to-table flavors at La Cocina Restaurante Tamarindo—where many ingredients are sourced directly from the onsite orchard—to scheduling a relaxing massage. Without a doubt, it is the ultimate destination to unplug and live an authentic experience. —D.V.
Destino Mío
Tekit, Yucatán (10 km al noreste del centro)
Tel. 999 996 7421
IG: destinomiomx
Viatura Xtojil: Luxury glamping amidst henequén fields
If you’re like me and your adventurous spirit is grand—but perhaps not quite as grand as your love for comfort—this is exactly where you need to be. Viatura Xtojil, located just minutes from the Sotuta de Peón area, left me thoroughly surprised and deeply in love with its slow-paced sunrises and starlit nights.
The glamping-style accommodations are strategically spread across henequén fields, ensuring total privacy and a constant sense of connection with the surroundings. Upon entering, the experience feels more like a luxury hotel: king-size beds, air conditioning, and thoughtfully curated amenities. And yet, one step onto your private terrace is all it takes to remember you are immersed in nature, with the landscape and the silence taking center stage.
At Viatura, time seems to move differently. Nights unfold to the rhythm of the countryside's natural sounds, while days are filled with experiences that enrich your stay without any sense of rush: yoga classes, relaxing hours by the outdoor pool, or workshops and excursions to nearby haciendas. The restaurant and bar deserve a special mention, offering a menu that reimagines local Yucatán flavors with a sophisticated touch—perfect for ending the day without ever having to leave the grounds.
Additionally, the Viatura team can help you plan deeper explorations of the region, with seasonal tours and excursions tailored to your interests. Getting lost in nature is one thing, but doing it with style, serenity, and true intention is another entirely. —S.C.
Viatura Xtojil
Xtojil, Km. 31 Carretera Ejido de, 97820 Sotuta de Peón, Yuc.
viaturaunseen.com/hacienda-xtojil
Tel. 55 2122 8650
IG: Viatura Xtojil
FB: Viatura Xtojil
More options
Hotels in Yucatán
Hotel Cielo y Selva, Tekax
Calle 51 x 102 y 104, Chobenché, Tekax de Álvaro Obregón
IG: cieloyselvatekax
Hotel Boulevard Infante, Mérida
Av. Itzáes x calle 73, Centro, Mérida
Tel. 999 984 1025
El Perico Marinero, Río Lagartos
Malecón de Río Lagartos
Hotel y Hostal Tunich Naj, Valladolid
Calle 38 x 43 y 45, Centro, Valladolid
Hostals in Yucatán
Hostal Oro Verde, Homún
Calle 36, Homún
Hostal Candelaria, Valladolid
Calle 44 x 35, a un costado del parque de La Candelaria
FB: Hostel Candelaria, Valladolid, Yucatán, México
Hostal y Camping Villa Mercedes, Tizimín
Calle 39 #410-A x 50 y 52, Col. Santa María, Tizimín
hostal-villa-mercedes.hotelvivavilla.com
Hostal Áabilo’ob, Progreso
Calle 31 #130 x 74 y 76, Progreso, Yucatán
WA: 969 103 5550
By Sara Alba, Sharon Cetina, Carlos Guzmán, Diana Villordo
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 459, in marzo 2026.
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