Hacienda Temozon

A beautifully preserved and bright red belle époque hacienda emerging from the vivid green jungle, Temozon is one of the most authentically inspirational places to stay in the whole of the Yucatan.

Once one of the largest estates producing sisal, the hotel enjoys a roomy 36 hectares of peaceful grounds strewn with vibrant flowers, organic kitchen gardens, cenotes (one housing the hotel’s spa), swimming pool, tennis courts and some Mayan archaeological remains, all about 40 minutes outside of Merida.

Again remaining true to the original architecture and style of ranch life, there is even a gallery exhibiting photographs of the hacienda over the years and the spacious and fairly sparse rooms possess original Hispanic and Indian antiques, sisal hammocks, handmade cotton textiles and woolen throws.

The food from the restaurant is delicious, where many of its regional and international dishes have been created from the organic produce grown in the gardens. The chef will teach you how to make Cochinita Pibil (pulled-pork stew) if you like and many of the staff have worked there their entire lives and know the area well. What’s more there is the most fantastic spa housed in a natural cenote (bore hole).