First In: T+L's Hotel Review of La Valise Mazunte in Oaxaca, Mexico
"Perched on a cliff within the protected El Torón Reserve in Mazunte, Oaxaca, this intimate boutique retreat offers six suites plus a pentagon-shaped villa (Villa Pentágonos) that feels carved from the landscape, with a pentagon infinity pool, multiple sliding doors opening to ocean views, an open-air bathroom, air conditioning, and integrated charging ports. Designed by Alberto Kalach with Ignacio Urquiza and built by hand without heavy machinery, the property emphasizes minimalist, craftsmanship-driven architecture that blends into the cliffs and prioritizes low-impact, locally sourced materials. The single on-site restaurant keeps its menu intentionally balanced — breakfast highlights include memelas, huevos rancheros, chilaquiles and chicken itacates; the all-day and dinner menus feature snacks, salads, a raw bar (shrimp aguachile, hibiscus-marinated ceviche, tuna tostadas), tacos (including octopus), regional entrées like pescado a la talla and shrimp-stuffed eggplant, and desserts such as chocolate tomal and buñuelos, while the beverage list spotlights mezcal alongside Mexican wines and beers. Activities are nature-forward — sunset yoga, mezcal tastings (including a Ruu Piiil tasting), temazcal ceremonies, sea-turtle releases, horseback rides, and access to a tidal secluded beach when conditions permit — and the spa offers in-suite treatments for seamless relaxation. The property welcomes guests aged 12 and older, practices sustainability through local sourcing and low-impact construction, and can accommodate mobility needs with advance coordination and a golf cart for steep terrain. It’s about 1 hour 15 minutes from Puerto Escondido Airport and just under four hours from Oaxaca de Juárez; nightly rates start around $400, and members of the hotel collection’s loyalty program receive perks like early check-in, late check-out, breakfast, and complimentary Wi‑Fi." - Travel + Leisure Editors
