When synergy of place matches intent and design, the boutique
hotel that emerges generates attention. Ultra-chic Hotel Cielo Rojo
glows like a ruby in charming San Pancho, located on the Pacific
Coast just north of Puerto Vallarta. Officially named San
Francisco, this delightful Mexican pueblo continues to grow in
population as well as in breadth of cultural experience. Although a
long way from the all-night dance clubs of Puerto Vallarta, gourmet
restaurants and coffee shops provide the visitor with plenty of
ambience. Also, the area is home to the growing polo club La
Patrona, with weekly games throughout the season from November
through May. Clients can sip tequila or nosh on tacos with the
horsey set in the shade of the jacaranda trees during the
match.
Yes, donkeys still wander about while traffic tries to hurry on
the cobblestone streets. But it only takes moments to reach the end
of town in any direction and continue along rutted roads to
discover palm groves, mango orchards and even some deluxe
developments that offer seaside living at reasonable prices. Fruit
markets provide sustenance in between visits to casual eateries
that serve quesadillas, Mexican divorced eggs and chilaquiles with
chicken and red chile sauce. A beer or margarita washes it all down
nicely after a stroll on one of the broadest and least populated
beaches in the region.
At night, visitors can spend time at Hotel Cielo Rojo, three
blocks from the beach, giving this escape some distance from the
sun-and-sandals set. The restaurant Azucena caters to adventurous
taste buds from anywhere, while chef Mane Rios from Mexico City
proves her touch on plates that might combine the tang of tamarind
with tender chicken or a twist on whatever she discovers in the
market that day. Tell clients to save room for the
better-than-homemade desserts.
In the pleasant evenings of San Pancho, as the sun drops below the
horizon, the evening light begins to change and the candles are
lit. The private garden becomes another world and the eclectic
music, might include Edith Piaf or big band hits from the Mexican
Golden Age of movies. Local musicians may pop in for an impromptu
set with hand-carried instruments.
Guests can make a reservation with manager Glades Huizar for a
relaxing massage in the spartan but comfortable room. During the
day, clients will find easy access to surfing, swimming, horseback
riding, fishing, kayaking, yoga, dance classes, hiking and more.
Clients should save Wednesday night for on-site, old-time movies
that brought Mexico such fame in the 1940s and ’50s. Order a
margarita on the rocks and slip back in time.
Prices are also like Old Mexico too, doubles begin at about $65
per night, including taxes, while suites start at $85. And that
includes breakfast.
Since a car isn’t really necessary, request arrangements for
airport pick-up when making the reservation. Agents should book
directly for the standard 10 percent commission.
52-311-258-4155
www.hotelcielorojo.com
