Puerto Vallarta Icon Returns

 

Living room of El Catrin
Open-air living room of El Catrin, the presidential suite.

 

A Mexican luxury legend is back—with a different look. Hotelito Desconocido, which means “Little Unknown Hotel,” recently completed a $10 million renovation and expansion project and has reopened its doors. The hotel is located in the middle of a nature reserve in the heart of Costalegre, Jalisco, between the Pacific Coast and the Sierra Madre Occidental, just 67 miles south of Puerto Vallarta.

Accommodations

As part of the renovation project, Hotelito replaced its original 24 bungalows with 26 larger, newly redesigned individual palafitos and one presidential suite, done in artisanal Mexican decor and hand-carved furnishings. Each palafito aims to evoke the spirit of one of the Mexican lottery cards, with symbols and folklore reflected in each bungalow. All palafitos have an outdoor Vichy shower, stone and mosaic soaking tubs, large terrace and views of the rivers, mountains and sea.

Hotelito Desconocido has also introduced the Presidential, a set of three palafitos located on their own island and overlooking the lagoon and the sea. The Presidential has its own sauna, heated and private Jacuzzi, stone bathtub, living room and a dining room, private infinity pool with chromotherapy, minibar, and 24-hour butler service. Clients in the Presidential also have the option to have private dinners prepared by their own chef.

Tropical-style canopy beds
All palafitos have tropical-style canopy beds.

 

Dining

In keeping with Mexican tradition and flavors, as well as showcasing 100 percent organic and fresh ingredients, Hotelito Desconocido’s two gourmet restaurants, El Diablito and El Nopalito Beach Club & Restaurant, each showcase Mexican homemade cuisine. All fish and meats are local, as are the herbs and produce from the property’s organic garden. Guests also have the option of requesting exclusive and private dinners on the beach, lagoon, on the tower or in the spa. El Diablito Restaurant is open for breakfast from 8-11 a.m. and for dinner from 8-10:30 p.m. El Nopalito is open for lunch and snacks from 2:30-4 p.m. and the bar is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Spa Solecito

Hotelito’s new spa has a focus on Thalassotherapy treatments, as well as a series of regional rituals, including a Temazcal, and Asian-inspired services such as Ayurvedic therapies. 

The Spa Solecito is designed along the lines of the Huichol culture and incorporates the four elements of the natural world: earth, water, wind and fire. The spa houses six palapa-style rooms and two wet areas. There is also an extensive water therapy circuit including sauna, steam and 11 Thalassotherapy pools with sea water.

The Spa Solecito aims to create a multi-sensory journey of subtle aromas, natural textures and music that complements the healing touch therapies. The combination of architecture, the harmonic sense of space and the unique rituals create an environment that balances the mind, body and soul.

El Catrin Bedroom Doubles
El Catrin bedroom doubles as a second living area.

 

Environment and Activities

Located in the middle of a natural reserve, Hotelito is home to a number of plant and animal species. A sea turtle sanctuary is the second largest turtle nesting area in the world and a team of biologists is charged with preserving the lives of thousands of these creatures each year. Guests are encouraged to participate in and experience the turtle release program as well as guided ecotours throughout the reserve. The property is also located along a lagoon that has been named a UNESCO bird paradise aquifer and is home to more than 450 avian species.

Hotelito Desconocido has a legacy of commitment to protecting the environment. The property works to preserve the ecosystem and the numerous animal species in the reserve. The hotel has also enhanced their “green” practices with the use of solar and wind power to fuel necessary appliances, while relying on candlelight in the evening. Additionally, Hotelito supports sustainable projects within the community of Cruz de Loreto, which is dependent on farming and commerce.

In addition to the number of eco and relaxation experiences, Hotelito offers an array of programs including fishing, horseback riding, bird watching, kayak tours, kite and wind surfing, and new tennis courts. 

Rates and Contacts

Rates for Hotelito Desconocido start at $425 per night, based on double occupancy, and include all meals, non-alcoholic beverages and use of kayaks.

Agents should reach out to Irene Batlle ([email protected]; 011-52-322-281-4010), reservations and revenue manager, with any queries or to make reservation requests.