Hacienda El Santuario

Hacienda El Santuario is a historic hotel that's filled with Old-World charm and eclectic decor. Housed in a former convent dating back to 1571, it's enveloped by perfectly manicured gardens and terraces dotted with lemon trees and cozy seating areas. The flower-filled courtyard features black metalwork tables and chairs and a variety of clay pieces hanging from its walls, making it a picturesque spot for breakfast. There are plenty of quiet spaces for guests to take a break, including a cozy library, rooftop terrace, and a reading garden with a trickling fountain and classic pink quarry benches. The lobby and public spaces are classically decorated with dark wood furniture and wrought-iron hacienda lights, while an array of potted plants and patterned soft furnishings add to the hotel's homely character. This hotel mostly appeals to couples owing to its romantic atmosphere, though families and groups also pass through occasionally.

This hotel is located about a five-minute walk from San Miguel de Allende's historic center. Situated on a quiet cobblestone street that's lined with colorful houses, it has a tranquil atmosphere plus easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. The historic center is well-known for its stunning colonial architecture and there are plenty of attractions within walking distance, like the city's main cathedral, Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, Zocalo Square, Jardin Allende, Parque Juarez, Santa Cruz del Chorro Chapel, and the Historical Museum of San Miguel de Allende. The city of Guanajuato is around a 50-minute drive from the hotel, while Guanajuato International Airport is roughly a 90-minute drive. Taxis and bus lines are easily accessible.

The hotel has 33 individually decorated suites divided into four categories -- Petite Suite, Junior Suite, Master Suite, and Grand Master Suite. All are cozy and classically decorated, though there are modern touches. Expect to see neutral soft tones, antique wood furniture, and colorful textiles. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs with cable channels, safes, phones, free Wi-Fi, and free bottled water. All have ceiling fans, while some add air-conditioning. Upgraded Suites are generally bigger, and feature extra living space, sofabeds, and king-size beds. Some include fireplaces and furnished balconies overlooking the central courtyard. En-suite bathrooms are decorated with colorful Talavera tiles and are equipped with walk-in showers or shower/tub combos, ornate mirrors, vessel sinks, hairdryers, and free L'Occitane toiletries.

Hacienda El Santuario is only a small boutique hotel and facilities are likewise limited. There's no full restaurant or bar, though numerous dining options can be found within walking distance and a delicious free breakfast is served every day in the pretty central courtyard. Dishes include chilaquiles, wholegrain French toast, fresh fruit, fresh orange juice, Nespresso coffee, beans, and eggs. Ingredients from the hotel's own rooftop vegetable garden feature largely in the dishes. The hotel also makes a range of organic food products that guests can purchase at the restaurant. 

While there are no fitness or wellness facilities, guests can rent bikes for free and cycle around the city. There are several stylish spaces that are often used for weddings and small business gatherings, including a multi-purpose living room with high ceilings and inked wooden beams. Hotel services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, airport transfers for a fee, laundry, babysitting, and free Wi-Fi. On the downside, there's no on-site parking which could be problematic for those with rental cars. Pets are welcome.