Punta Caliza Hotel

Mexico

A laidback island retreat in Mexico makes the most of balmy waters, with private pools for every suite, the Caribbean on one side, a lagoon on the other and protected flora, fauna and wildlife all around

North of the Yucatán Peninsula, between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean, lies a sliver of an island known as Holbox, just 2.4km wide and 42km long. Separated from the mainland by the Yalahau lagoon, home to flamingos and pelicans, its white-sanded shores are a world away from the rumble of urbanity, with golf carts the preferred method of transport.

Fishing is the main industry for the 1,000 or so souls who live here, and those that find themselves staying on the island find solace from the modern world, not just in
isolation, but in birding, kayaking, whale shark spotting or just getting immersed in nature, be it the blue waters or the mangrove of the nature reserve. And, for a base, you can’t get much better than the boutique Punta Caliza, where every room has its own private pool, albeit linked to the main pool at the centre of the hotel. It’s even got its own small private beach.

In keeping with Mexico’s traditions, a competition was held to create its Mayan-influenced design, and even in construction, ancient Mayan techniques were deployed. There are just 14 suites, made using red cedar wood with thatched roofs and, amenity-wise, all the essentials are covered. Family suites include two queen beds and there’s also the standard one-bed suite. Boutique in both style and feeling, it’s a family-run affair – they hail from Tabasco and their personality runs throughout. They offer a number of experiences including yoga and mezcal tours,
all the while ensuring all meals are in keeping with the location, encompassing traditional Mexican while making the most of the incredible seafood, from meaty lobster to the freshest sea bass.

This unique island is part of a wider protected area that includes wetlands, barrier islands and the lagoon, so the richness in its flora, fauna and wildlife is abundant and clearly worth protecting. The same applies to the vibe of the island, known for its laidback feel, and epitomised by Punta Caliza, where the younger and older generation of one family have created the perfect relaxing stay in a beautiful slice of Mexico.

Doubles from £358. 00 52 9983 168140, puntacaliza.com

Words by Alex Mead.

This review was taken from the 250th issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.