It isn’t often that we have the opportunity to live like royalty. But at Hotel Esencia, the royal treatment is simply par for the course. The stunning 50-acre estate, tucked away behind a thick tropical grove, was once home to an Italian duchess. Today, it welcomes folks who are not descendants of the ruling class but offers the same level of exquisite luxury that is befitting not only of a duchess but of an absolute queen.
The magic of Esencia begins the moment guests arrive on the property. The entrance to this stunning property is surprisingly unassuming; for folks who choose to drive themselves, a simple gravel driveway leads guests to a modest hut. There, a delightful group of concierges stand at the ready to welcome you, while your luggage is discretely whisked away through the jungle.
Check-in, however, takes place not at this initial entryway but in your private suite, located just a short golf cart ride away from the hustle and bustle of Quintana Roo’s main thoroughfares. As you make your way through the lush rainforest, you may just feel yourself leaving behind the stresses of real life.
To help you get your bearings, your cart ride ends at a small roundabout, where your very own personal concierge will meet you and serve as your foot guide for the rest of the journey (and, indeed, your stay). Each of the structures within the Esencia property is thoughtfully designed to blend in with its natural surroundings.
Esencia’s 47 suites and 4 villas are housed in minimalistic, clean, white structures. This modern aesthetic is continued inside expansive rooms, with all-white floors and walls beautifully accentuated by colorful hand-woven throws and rugs. The bold prints and colors of these accessories pay homage to mid-century design and art in Mexico, accentuated by unique pieces sourced over the last decade from California, the French Riviera, and Acapulco.
Bathrooms are chic and expansive, with features varying by suite type. We love the rain-like shower rooms available in some Jungle suites, whereas others feature deep soaking tubs and even plunge pools. Guests are also welcomed with plush indoor slippers and woven outdoor slippers perfect for beach trips.
With five restaurants and bars on the property, you could spend an entire lifetime eating your way across the property. But for those who prefer the privacy of their own suites, Hotel Esencia has that covered, too. In addition to room service offerings, all guests are treated to a hand-delivered breakfast of pastries and coffee or tea, left in a small locker just outside your door. Just let your concierge know when you’d like to indulge, and you’ll find all the necessary accoutrement waiting for your waking.
Your concierge is also your key to booking a wide range of experiences, from Esencia’s magical spa to racquet sports, including tennis, pickleball, and badminton, to a trip to the property’s lagoon, where you might catch sight of sea turtles or manatees.
While plenty of relaxation can be found at Esencia’s private beach, those truly looking for a treat should indulge at the Esencia Spa, with treatments inspired by traditional Mayan healing rituals. With its beautiful palapa thatched roofs and circular Mayan design, you may just feel reborn after a massage or full body treatment (which leverage custom poultices that therapists make on-site in a Mayan kitchen).
And if swimming in the ocean after a spa session isn’t quite your speed, spend the day lounging at one of Esencia’s two pools (one of which is reserved for adults), while sipping on an Esencia margarita. And don’t forget daily tea and petit four times, which takes place from 4 to 6 pm.
Leaving the magic of Esencia is almost heartbreaking, but even knowing that the property exists provides some consolation. So whether for a honeymoon, a journey of self-discovery, or just because, Hotel Esencia is an absolute must-stay.
Top Takeaways
Location: Quintana Roo, Mexico
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Literal Italian royalty meets a tropical vacation, with an “IYKYK” type of feel
Food + Drink: There are three beautiful restaurants on property: Japanese-inspired Tayo, more traditionally Mexican Mistura Xpu-Ha, and luxurious steakhouse Beefbar. For drinks, head over to the Speakeasy, a bar hidden in the jungle, or try something more laid back at The Beach Bar.
Amenities: fitness center; restaurants; bars; concierges; tennis courts, pools, private beach
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The Esencia spa is truly not to be missed; even if you don’t opt for a treatment, hit up the steam room and sauna.
5 Nearby Attractions: Ecopark Kantun Chi, Cenote Azul, Playa Zuri, Cenote Minotauro, Ojo de agua Alga
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: In the “neighborhood” of 50-acre Esencia, be sure to check out the property’s lagoon for some wildlife sightings.
Rooms: 47 suites and 4 villas
Pricing: Rooms start at $1,155/night
Closest Airport: Cancun International Airport
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