Casa Cuitlateca

In stark contrast to the pre-packaged decor found at many nearby hotels and resorts, the design at Casa Cuitlateca takes cues from ancient Mayan ruins and contemporary trends. Lush greenery climbing the exterior walls, thatched roofs, stone pathways, and stone-and-stucco walls blend beautifully to create a sense of a seaside tropical escape. The combined pool and restaurant area provide ample outdoor space for the hotel’s six rooms' worth of guests to unwind. Panoramas from the deck are among the best of any area hotel, with sweeping views of Zihuatanejo and its respective bay. Even with the hotel at capacity, the atmosphere is laid-back, quiet, and intimate. With only one bed in every room and no kid-centric activities of any kind, travelers aren’t likely to see children on the property, and romantic couples make up a bulk of the hotel's visitors.

Situated on a quiet hillside outside of downtown Zihuatanejo, Casa Cuitlateca provides lovely views of both the town and the bay. The restaurants and shops of downtown Zihuatanejo are 10 minutes away on foot. While the hillside location precludes the hotel from having a beach of its own, two of the area’s best beaches -- Playa Ropa and Playa la Madera -- are within a five-minute walk. Two premier, 18-hole golf courses -- Marina Ixtapa Nautica and Ixtapa Golf Course -- are just 15 minutes away by car.

Surprisingly, the hotel provides complimentary transportation to and from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport, which is a 25-minute drive from the hotel. Given the many attractions within walking distance, a rental car wont' be necessary for most travelers. Cab service is readily available throughout the area with affordable, zone-based rates. Shuttles vans and buses are also plentiful -- they are the cheapest option provided travelers don’t mind sharing a ride.

The traditional-meets-contemporary Mexican aesthetic found throughout the property is stylishly incorporated into each room. The decor blends adobe-inspired details like stucco walls and exposed wood beams with modern eclectic furniture. The muted brown-on-white color scheme creates a warm and inviting rustic-chic look, while subtle bursts of red and orange add a dash of color to each space. Artful details, like pottery arranged on mantles, and sculptures that are tastefully deployed, add an additional level of charm.

Each of the six rooms features a unique layout with above average floor space when compared to similar area hotels. Oversized terraces in every room provide even more space to unwind and make the rooms seem even larger. Each is outfitted with a hammock, several chairs with a small dining table, and stunning ocean views. The Jalisco Ocean View Penthouse additionally offers an upper-level sundeck with a private whirlpool tub.

In-room TVs and alarm clocks are intentionally omitted to further ensure the laid-back, distraction-free atmosphere. However, every room features essential modern amenities, including mini-fridges, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a comfortable king-size bed. Several rooms even offer bay views from in bed.

Bathrooms in all rooms are modern, spacious, and well-appointed. The cohesive Mexican design aesthetic is carried through with wicker accents, pebble stone flooring, bamboo cabinetry, and stone and tile shower stalls. Additional nice-to-have amenities -- toothpaste, sunscreen, and brand-name bath products -- are provided.

As a small boutique property, Casa Cuitlateca provides every essential upscale amenity and nothing more. The sole on-site restaurant, lovely hillside terrace, and infinity pool all combine in a single outdoor space that will likely leave guests with little reason to leave the property. Keep in mind, though, that there is no fitness center.

The hotel offers a single unnamed restaurant adjacent to the pool and outdoor terrace. The decor is tropical, rustic, and upscale, with rattan and wicker furniture, orange stucco walls, and lush, well-maintained vines and greenery throughout. A free a la carte breakfast is served daily. Lunch and dinner menus are similarly a la carte, however somewhat limited -- not surprising given the hotel’s size. Dinner typically includes a multi-course prix fixe menu of local seafood such as tuna, snapper, shrimp, and lobster. Opening and closing hours for each meal are more like guidelines, and the property is open to accommodating guests’ individual dining needs.

Immediately adjacent to the restaurant, the expansive terrace provides the centerpiece of the hotel. The space seamlessly blends the sundeck, infinity pool, garden area, and the entire restaurant into a sizable, open space. A large number of dining chairs, lounge chairs, and umbrellas provide shaded relaxation space that could easily accommodate three times the capacity of the hotel. The terrace provides stunning views of Zihuatanejo Bay as well as the town and marinas. With only six rooms and more than enough communal space, the terrace is rarely crowded.

Adequate self-parking is available in an off-street lot within a safe neighborhood. There is a computer room and library, but Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Airport transfers are also provided for free.