Esencia. One of the most exquisite boutique hotels of Riviera Maya, located on the one of its most spectacular beaches at midpoint between Tulum and Playa del Carmen.
Hotel Esencia was originally built as the private hideaway for Italian duchess Rosa de Ferrari. No doubts, duchess had a refined taste. She managed to blend artistically the laid-back spirit of the Mexican coast with nobility of her aristocratic Italian heritage.
As it happens, the property was later converted into a boutique luxury hotel, with Rosa’s original suite now referred to as the “Rosa Suite” in her honour.
Next, new chapter started in 2014, when estate was purchased by Kevin Wendle, an American entrepreneur and art collector. Wendle renovated and expanded the property while preserving its historic charm and character.
The historical mansion still remains as the hotels’ centrepiece, around which footpaths lead to 47 suites and 4 villas where guests enjoy genuine privacy surrounded by lush tropical park.
I was staying at Hotel Esencia twice, and I can confess that beach is rare perfect (I’m a beach person even when beautiful swimming pools are available). This is a lucky part of Riviera Maya which by whim of winds and currents is not affected by sea weed or other issues. Somehow sea is always perfectly clean and swimmable there (from my experience).
And oh… there are very few people around. Esencia is a small property by number of keys (not by size of estate), and there are no other hotels close by. So you have an abundance of unpopulated perfect white sand beach for your walks and swims. This is truly luxurious indeed.
I mentioned before that the current owner is a serious art collector. As a result, interiors of the property are adorned (in unforced organic manner) by some important pieces.
Interior design in total is very natural. The suites are all white with splashes of bright colour and some authentic Mexican crafts added for character. Somehow white polished surfaces are tricky to photograph, and I should say that interiors are way more impressive in reality than on my photos.
Every room enjoys some outdoor space – some are with terraces or roof-tops, some are with private gardens or patios, and there is always cute splash pool to add to your comfort.
The most spectacular accommodation option is The Esencia Mansion, 4 bedroom and 10,000 sq. ft. villa completed in 2022. Three swimming pools, roof top terrace with 360 degrees view of jungle and sea, gorgeous kitchen, myriad of beautifully appointed common spaces to enjoy either gathering or solitude. Truly spectacular and within the grandest villas in Riviera Maya.
I was surprised to learn how reasonable it is considering all facilities and space.
Hotel Esencia has one of the most interesting SPAs I’ve ever came across during my hotel stays. It designed in accordance with principles of sacred Mayan circular pattern, covered by traditional palapa thatched roof, and it artfully combines modern wellbeing with ancient traditions. “Organic kitchen” is a core of the SPA where therapists work with local herbs, plants, oils, honey and spices to create balms, essences and scrubs which are used for an experience. Quite organic indeed.
And oh… food and beverage. Hotel Esencia is not an all inclusive hotel, so mind the budget for your meals. Well, it is no cheap even really good, both simple and sophisticated, and served in nice atmosphere. Expect barefoot luxury.
Taiyo: poolside, Japanese with Mexican twist.
Beefbar: meat lovers’ place, originally established in Monaco. All meat nobility from Australian Black Onyx to Japanese Kobe beef (certified), in simple comforting manner of cooking.
Mistura: Mexican gastronomic experience with Mediterranean touch, beachfront.
Coffee Bar & Juice Bar: wide selection of coffees and house made Mexican pastries.
Beach Bar… well, truly a beach bar to enjoy.
I tried Mistura and Beefbar. Both were great for my taste.
Your Virtuoso amenities if you book Hotel Esencia with me:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily breakfast credit of $60 per person for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant (non-cumulative)
- $100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Complimentary bottle of wine
- Bookings in our Pool Villa or higher categories will receive an additional $100 Resort or Hotel credit (for a total of $200 during stay)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Feel free to contact me for reservation at [email protected]
