The concept of luxury travel means different things to different people. And San Miguel de Allende, one of Mexico’s highest-profile destinations for upscale travel, is well-positioned to satisfy various interpretations, thanks to its array of activities and experiences.
Founded in 1542 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, San Miguel de Allende offers a unique blend of old and new, traditional and contemporary. This is a place to explore history and traditions, to be sure, but it’s also a place to enjoy decidedly 21st-century style, service and amenities. Few destinations in Mexico, in fact, have such a high concentration of luxury hotels (especially when you consider the city’s compact size).
Now, as San Miguel de Allende continues to welcome visitors back (the city received the World Travel & Tourism Council’s “Safe Travels” seal of approval for its extensive hygiene protocols), tourism officials are touting the destination’s diverse array of options for luxury travelers, of which I’ve experienced several.
Luxury Hotels in San Miguel de Allende
During my most recent visit, I stayed at the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, one of the destination’s most sumptuous luxury hotels. With its perfectly manicured grounds, excellent spa, enticing cuisine and beautiful accommodations (I stayed in a giant, four-bedroom villa), it’s no wonder this is a first choice for many travelers.
On a previous visit, I checked into another noteworthy upscale property, the Live Aqua Urban Resort San Miguel de Allende, which stylishly blends contemporary style with traditional architectural elements.
There are, indeed, luxury hotels to suit just about every taste in the area. I also toured the lovely Hacienda El Santuario San Miguel de Allende, where each of the 31 guestrooms has unique layouts (I was especially taken with the vaulted ceilings that graced some accommodations). Casa 1810 Hotel Boutique, meanwhile, is another ideal choice for travelers looking for unique boutique accommodations with upscale flair in the heart of the city.
Several boutique hotels also feature eye-catching international style. The 10-room Hotel Casa Blanca 7, for example, mixes traditional colonial Spanish elements with Moorish decor. Trendy vibes are also provided by two members of Design Hotels in San Miguel de Allende: Hotel Matilda, which is known for its original artwork, culinary events and excellent spa treatments, and Dos Casas, which is partially set in two 18th-century former residences and offers six room categories, including a beautiful rooftop suite with mountain views.
The pool at Hotel Matilda
Credit: 2021 Mark ChesnutFine Dining Options
San Miguel de Allende is also a hot spot for diverse cuisine. Maria Xoconostle, for example, serves a variety of Mexican favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner in the large courtyard of a historic former home. Nearby, the aptly named The Restaurant wows with a sophisticated menu that includes tasty treats such as pork and shrimp pot stickers and Tandoori chicken tacos.
For meals with a view, it’s hard to beat Quince, which draws a loyal following thanks to its rooftop setting, hip vibe, excellent cocktails and international menu. The aforementioned Hotel Casa Blanca 7, meanwhile, is home to a rooftop restaurant and bar with excellent views of the city.
San Miguel de Allende’s hotel restaurants, in fact, are so good that they shouldn’t be overlooked, even if you’re not staying at the hotel itself. Casa 1810 Hotel Boutique and Dos Casas both have excellent restaurants, for example, while at Hotel Matilda, Moxi offers an imaginative international menu created by Australian chef Paul Bentley, with Mexican, French and other international influences.
Dessert at The Restaurant in San Miguel de Allende
Credit: 2021 Mark ChesnutCustomized Adventures
Culture, cuisine and luxury accommodations may be central to San Miguel de Allende’s appeal with upscale travelers, but the San Miguel de Allende Tourism Board is also promoting more active pursuits, including ATV excursions, hiking and horseback riding, to name a few.
Among the more upscale adventure experiences is a hot-air balloon ride, which provides a memorable way to view the sunrise and start the day. A company called Globo San Miguel offers a variety of excursions; for the most exclusive experience, book a private flight, which includes at least 45 minutes in the air, and a breakfast downtown.
Art and Shopping
There’s no need to feel stuck with run-of-the-mill, predictable tourist souvenirs in San Miguel de Allende. The town attracts artists from around Mexico and around the world, and their work is visible in shops, galleries, hotels and restaurants around town.
Fabrica La Aurora, an arts center set in a former factory, is an excellent place to discover the city’s creativity. Original artwork, home decor and jewelry are a few of the finds here, and the artists themselves are often present to discuss their work — like Merry Calderoni, a Texas-born artist whose large-format artwork (including a series painted with whips) has garnered lots of praise.
Clients can sip wine at Vinedos San Lucas, a winery near San Miguel de Allende.
Credit: 2021 Mark ChesnutSpirited Getaways
San Miguel de Allende is located conveniently close to one of Mexico’s largest wine regions, and it’s easy to savor local varietals at venues such as Vinedos San Lucas, a beautiful winery that offers guided tours and tastings. The property also features an attractive restaurant with postcard-perfect views of the vineyard, as well as an equestrian facility that offers polo classes on a dedicated polo field. Biking, spa and yoga classes are also offered, and the 14-room on-site hotel provides accommodations close to all the activities.
The Details
San Miguel de Allende
