November 2025
The most luxurious lodgings are at the Esencia Mansion, a four-bedroom villa with three swimming pools, a 20-seat screening room, subterranean speakeasy and nearby cenote where guests can paddleboard among the resident manatees.
Conde Nast TravelerThere’s paradise — and then there’s Hotel Esencia. The stunning 50-acre property set just outside of Tulum, Mexico, is the ultimate luxury-hotel destination thanks to its jaw-dropping beachfront and jungle views, delicious restaurants, a freshly renovated spa, and gorgeous interiors alike.
Rolling Stone, June 2025Barefoot luxury of the highest order.
50 Best, September 2024Magazine-worthy interiors mix mid-century treasures with Mexican antiques; three restaurants include an excellent Japanese omakase; and service is pitch-perfect, with spoiling extras.
The Telegraph, September 2024In-the-know travelers—like Uma Thurman and Bella Hadid—adore this elegant collection of ocean-facing or jungle suites and villas with walk-in showers, walk-in closets, and standout art from Picasso and Botero.
Fodor's Travel, January 2024This former villa of an Italian duchess is now your private jungle getaway, 30 minutes from hip Tulum.
Condé Nast Travaler, December 2018Hard to improve upon, but they've done it. Stay in a new two-storey beach suite and you can fall straight out of bed and onto the icing-sugar sand, or gaze over the water from your terrace.
Tatler Magazine, June 2018If there is a lovelier spot in the Caribbean, it is hard to think where.
Conde Nast Traveller (UK), March 2018Prepare to be thoroughly spoiled at this relaxed retreat, beloved of Hollywood A-listers for its privacy.
The Telegraph, March 2018Originally an Italian duchess's holiday home, it became a hotel in 2005 then was transformed to its current splendour in 2014
Condé Nast Travaller, January 2018Not a single detail has been overlooked, so expect everything from double rain-shower heads and Molton Brown bath products to 600-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets. The service is exceptional, as is the food.
Fodor's, November 2017Esencia takes pride in being a bit hard to find, a getaway solely for those in the know.
Condé Nast Traveler (US), December 2016Reader’s Choice Awards 2025
Readers of Conde Nast Traveller (UK & US editions) vote for their top hotels and resorts worldwide.
Conde Nast Traveller (UK/US)
Rolling Stone Travel Awards 2025
The RS team of editors pick the hotels they love for the year.
Best Hotel
Rolling Stone
Fodor’s Finest 2024
The travel experts at Fodor's nominate their 60 Most Incredible Hotels in the World.
Fodor's Travel
The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024
600 travel journalists, hoteliers and travel experts vote for their favourite hotels worldwide.
48th place (last year: 19th)
50 Best
Telegraph Hotel Awards 2024
The world’s 50 greatest hotels, ranked and rated by the experts at The Telegraph.
34th place.
The Telegraph
The Gold List 2019
These are the Condé Naste Travaller's all-time favourite hotels.
Condé Nast Traveller
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Hotels Own Introduction
A Blend of Tradition and Modern Luxury
Originally the private home of an Italian duchess, Hotel Esencia is where the timeless traditions of the past meet the modern art of refined living. This secluded oasis is perfectly situated where the Yucatán jungle fades into the untouched shores of Xpu-Ha bay, one of the last undeveloped beaches on the Mayan Riviera.
A Majestic Estate by the Sea
Hotel Esencia is a 50-acre estate nestled between Tulum and Playa del Carmen in Mexico. Its storied past has always been tied to culture, cuisine, and comfort. Once the exclusive hideaway of an Italian duchess on the Mayan Riviera's most breathtaking beach, it later evolved into a hotel. Today, it continues to be a sought-after destination, particularly for honeymooners who are captivated by the serene luxury of this elegant mansion.
Suites of Pure Luxury
Every room at Hotel Esencia offers a suite-level experience. Guests enjoy luxurious amenities like private plunge pools, personal fitness areas, and rooftop terraces featuring plunge pools and outdoor showers. Spacious private terraces and sitting areas offer tranquil views over the lush garden canopy or a breathtaking panorama of the Caribbean Sea.
Culinary Journeys with a Taste of Home
Dining at Hotel Esencia is both a culinary exploration and a comforting return to the familiar. The menu is sophisticated yet simple, blending the diverse regional cuisines of Mexico with Mediterranean flavors. Ingredients are locally sourced from farmers and artisans in Quintana Roo, with delicacies like mole from Oaxaca, fruits from Yucatán, and wines from Baja, ensuring every meal is a celebration of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.
Hotel website