Puerta Hacienda Campeche

I have always wanted to stay at a Hacienda. I don’t know exactly when or how I became aware of the architecture, maybe an old Western I watched as a kid, but I have always loved the style. There is something about the open courtyards and high ceilings and outer covered walks that appeal to me. I finally got my opportunity during a recent trip to Campeche. We chose to stay at Puerta Hacienda Campeche, a 16th Century, 4-star Marriott Bonvoy property, located in the center of the historic, walled city. It is probably the best location in all of Campeche, at the foot of Calle 59 which is a pedestrian street full of shops, cafes and bars.  At one end of 59th is the Malecon and the other an entrance to the original fort and walled city. 

In the 17th century Campeche built the fortified walled city to protect its traders and mechants from attacks from pirates and raiders. Puerta Hacienda’s architecture is primarily Spanish, but there are hints of the Maya culture in its touches.  In the 19th Century this was the home of Don Eligio Guerrero, a wealthy merchant who sold luxury products and wines from Europe as well as henequen and soaps. The hotel was both a residence and mercantile business. 

One of the amazing details of the property is how they used the original structure of some rooms to create the most interesting swimming pool. You literally can swim or walk through several doors, and parts of the pool are covered with ceilings, with hammocks there to enjoy, just inches above the water.

With only 15 guest rooms, this truly is an intimate boutique hotel, tastefully decorated with some amazing antiques, artwork and furnishings.  You will feel like you are taking a step back in time as you wander through each inch of this magnificent property. The reception area feels much like you would imagine the original mercantile shop to be. Next to that is the library, with sofas and books and on the other side is a beautiful 20 foot long wooden bar that provides the perfect cozy spot for a cocktail. 

The hotel has a lovely, small spa that offers many wonderful options for spoiling yourself even more.  Our friends, Deborah and Brandi raved about their spa experiences.

The open-air restaurant has a lovely view of the pool and garden. The rooms are as you would expect, all located around the garden area. Each are large and well furnished. The linens are perfect, each room has thick wonderful towels, bathrobe and high-quality linens - that is a plus and I always point that out when doing a review. 

The rooftop is a perfect place to hold a private event or take your after-dinner drink, enjoy the view of the city and catch the evening breezes. 

What ultimately determines a great property from a good one is the staff. Puerta Hacienda has the most wonderful staff. We spent 3 nights and they could not have been more accommodating and helpful without being intrusive. Caesar, the manager, has done an excellent job of picking the best people for each position.  Fabian Leon was helpful and pleasant during our entire stay and did a great job supervising his team. Our waitstaff – Jocelin Hernandez, Margarita Cabrera, Suhail Villalana, Jesus Delgado were all amazing!  They knew what we needed before we did. They provided us with top-notch service, made us feel warm and welcomed and were always surprising us with something special. To round out the staff there were our bartender team Carlos and Carlos – Carlos Varela and Carlos Mijangos.

To give an example of the special touches the staff did for us, we had reservations to attend an amazing Farm to Table event with a Shaman just outside the city. When we returned, the staff was waiting for us with a charcuterie and cheese plate prepared and the rooftop area set up for us to enjoy, including music of our choice. They took the time to make a special evening even that much more special.

We visited Campeche during some of its hottest days.  So we can’t wait to return to this incredible property during the cooler months. I must say, my first experience at a hacienda dramatically exceeded my expectations. Thanks to everyone who made our visit so memorable.