Las Mañanitas

Las Manañitas fills a very special niche in my heart. My mother and father spent many happy winters in this bit of paradise, ensconced in one of the inn’s loveliest suites, and I was fortunate to visit them on many occasions. Nothing much has really changed in the nearly 30 years since I first stayed there—it remains one of Mexico’s most exquisite hideaways. Not only is this a superb, intimate hotel, but it is also renowned as one of Mexico’s finest restaurants; people line up daily at lunchtime to dine. The entrance is most unassuming. The magic doesn’t begin until you walk out into the courtyard where you are greeted by an exquisite garden with lush foliage and expansive lawns decorated with sculptures, a lily pond with a water fountain, and peacocks wandering freely throughout the property. On one side, the restaurant offers both terrace and inside dining and overlooks the gardens. To the left, is a very comfortable lounge and bar (primarily for hotel guests), which comes to life in the evenings. The guestrooms are very spacious, especially the garden suites, and come completely outfitted with all amenities. The corridors leading to the rooms are adorned with fine art of well-known Mexican artists and large bouquets of fresh flowers. The hotel is located just outside the historic central area, close enough to walk there, but far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the street noises.