The Oaxaca Hideaway, Oaxaca, Mexico - Explore & Book

"This elegant and colourful townhouse in central Oaxaca has had an eventful life. Built in the 1900s as a colonial home, it survived several major floods before an earthquake left it uninhabitable in 1991. The stalwart Cabrera family took a deep breath (and a big loan), vacated the house and engaged local architect Jorge Quintanar to completely remodel it into a stylish, multi-level home. In 2001, it was reborn as an intimate and successful guesthouse, before changing to its current format of a house rental - still with the Cabreras at the helm.At its heart is a peaceful stone patio, around which are arranged the 3 bedrooms, the cheery yellow kitchen, the dining room and the living room, topped by a sunny cactus-filled terrace. Many traditional features are preserved - beamed ceilings, brass chandeliers, wrought-iron and ivy-covered walls - as well as some whimsical touches, like the cherub wall hangings and vintage dolls.The welcome from Adriana and her team, who meet you on arrival and are on hand throughout your stay, is as warm as the ochre walls. They can book you a tour to the Zapotec site of Monte Alban, or the river pools of Hierve el Agua (guided by husband René); or a cooking lesson in the house's homely, well-equipped kitchen (with sister and chef Pilar). The kitchen-diner is a great space for dinner - home-cooked or otherwise - and a mezcal nightcap. Otherwise, the restaurants and markets of downtown Oaxaca are just a short walk away. Highs This is a private, privileged place to stay in the heart of townWe loved the décor - a joyful blend of modern and traditional Mexican Lots of semi-outdoor spaces to relax inDaily maid service, plus (for a small charge) freshly made breakfast It’s close to restaurants, shops and markets Lows This is a simple, authentic townhouse, at a fitting price; don't expect gardens or a swimming poolThe central location means there’s some street and traffic noise Street parking only" - Lisa Young