Many people, especially those of us who grew up in Southern California, are familiar with Mexico’s Baja California peninsula destinations Tijuana, Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas. I think few, however, know much about Loreto. I was drawn by images of a sparkling blue sea, lush green landscapes and sunny skies and hopped a short flight to the Baja California Sur town. The Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto, my remotely located hotel, was reminiscent of one I would find in Palm Springs, with its desert surroundings and dry heat. The biggest difference here, however, was the Sea of Cortez (also known as the Gulf of California) and the breathtaking backdrop it provided the resort.
Guestrooms at Villa del Palmar Loreto range from a single-room deluxe suite to the multi-bedroom presidential suite, which can accommodate up to 12 people. My one-bedroom suite included a fully equipped kitchen, a washer and dryer, two bathrooms and a wraparound balcony with views of the sea — enviably much more than I would find at my apartment back in Los Angeles.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Dining options include the Casa Mia pool bar, the buffet-style Market Restaurant, and the fine dining Danzante. One of my favorite dishes at Danzante was traditional tortilla soup served in a decidedly untraditional way: As I watched from my seat, a server slowly poured hot, tomato-based broth over a bowl of tortilla strips, fresh avocado, cheese and a strip of dried guajillo chili. Talk about presentation! The culinary masterpieces kept on coming, with a delicious entrée of plantains, sea bass, and risotto and a date tart with Serrano chili and lime sorbet for dessert.
What would a resort stay be if one didn’t take the time for a little R&R? At the Sabila Spa I was treated to a head and neck massage and invited to enjoy the spa’s sauna and spa-tubs — the perfect way to relax after a day of fun in the sun.
And there is plenty of fun to be had. Not only does the hotel offer five pools and beach access, but guests can also enjoy scuba diving, glass-bottomed kayaks and sport fishing. On land, there are several trails winding up the adjacent Sierra de la Giganta mountain, and tours are available to explore Loreto’s storied history.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
In the evening, the Villa del Palmar often hosts special events, including “Mexican Night,” which pairs traditional Mexican cuisine from the Market’s buffet with a showcase of the history of music in Mexico featuring dancing performances from members of the hotel staff. The dancers were fantastic and seemed to be having so much fun sharing their culture with us. The audience was even invited to join in for a rousing rendition of the Jarabe Tapatio, also known as the Mexican Hat Dance.
It was tough to say goodbye to this beautiful, peaceful place. Loreto, I hope to see you again soon.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
