Brought to you in part by the Rainforest Alliance and the Marriot chain… The purpose behind restoring the Hacienda, which was built in the 1700s was noble: “to create new opportunities for our local communities while contributing to the balance between the environment, cultural values, social welfare, and sustainable economic development.” When I arrived at the Hacienda, I felt transported back in time to Gabriel García Marquez and his One Hundred Years of Solitude. Originally, the hacienda raised cattle, then switched to corn, cane, natural dye, and agave—from which hennekin was made, for ropes and for hats. If you are fortunate to visit, you will find charming small houses where you can stay overnight. They have tall ceilings, fans and air conditioning when summer heat arrives. They also have warm showers and deep tubs. The wait staff are quite receptive and respectful—both at the Reception area and at the restaurant in the Hacienda. Treat yourself to breakfast at the hacienda while the birds awaken and the sun pours through the fronds. If you get as far as Campeche, you should call a taxi or van to the Hacienda. Be sure to bring currency if you need it…or rely upon credit card. If you wish to go to Edzna, they can phone a cab to take you there and then either bring you back to the Hacienda or to Campeche. For that you will need pesos. Truly, an uncommon experience

While this hacienda (part of the 5 haciendas which are in the Luxury Collection of Marriott) is fairly isolated, it is still an excellent base to visit Maya ruins at Edzna and the small costal city of Campeche. Founded 300 years ago, but with building dating mostly from the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, this hacienda is filled with history. At one time, it was bursting with activities as many local people were working to produce dyes sold in Europe. Many buildings, including the factory and the chapel, are now in ruins but can still be visited, giving a unique atmosphere to that hotel. A beautiful pool is found in another ruin, creating the impression that soaking in there brings you back to the past… I really had the impression of bathing in a Roman bath house! The restaurant is located in the main building, overlooking the deep jungle. Beautiful settings with cocktail bar and library, as well as two outdoor terrasses. The food was very nice (without being gastronomic), but the cocktails were simply amazing. Our room was located… in an old charity hospital! Very high ceiling and beautiful furniture. Those historical settings have a cost… on one night we had no hot water, while internet was unavailable in the room for most of our stay.

If you want a typical luxury hotel experience, go somewhere else. If you want to experience something extraordinary - this is a place to stay. The rooms are located in staff apartments, not in the main building, so to go to the pool or restaurant, you need to walk through the jungle. The ruins and grounds are great to explore. There are many insects around (and sadly also in) the pool, but there are also flocks of bright yellow butterflies flying. Menu is limited, food was OK, not great, prices affordable. We arrived there early, even before noon, were prepared to wait, but we got the room immediately. We stayed for one night and loved it.