Source: Conde Nast Traveler
Set high on a hilltop above the new resort village of Las Catalinas, this 21-villa hotel only opened in mid-February and it’s proved to be an instant hit.
One very good reason is its superb location, with hypnotic views over the Pacific Ocean, punctuated by a couple of rugged islands, an occasional distant yacht or fishing boat, all fringed by sandy beaches in the bays below. Stand shoulder-deep at the lip of the infinity pool, transfixed by that view, until brown pelicans fly past at eye level and a pair of forked tail, wide-winged frigatebirds patrol high above them.
The villas themselves are charming, with bleached-wood furniture and a mix of Moroccan and local art on the walls, marble and limestone floors, bluetooth speakers, good Wi-Fi, and glass-walled showers that open directly on to sun terraces with private plunge pools fed by waterfall walls.
Imposing Asian sculptures decorate the public areas; bamboo lines the roof, supported by teak pillars, in an airy dining and large bar area above the main pool; hinged plantation shutters fold vertically to maintain uninterrupted views of the horizon. The food is excellent, produced with a light touch (octopus and shrimp ceviche; a scallop salad) by smiling staff in the open kitchen. The wonderfully fresh mahi-mahi, pago (red snapper) sea bass and snook tastes all the better when served direct from the grill.
You can swim, dive, fish, surf or paddleboard in the ocean; hike or bike among the flora and fauna on 22km of trails; or practise yoga at the hotel’s open-air pavilion. Then laze in the sunshine, cooled by a breeze, with book or drink in hand, relishing your good fortune.