Hacienda San Gabriel de Las Palmas Hotel Spa
Relaxing Mexican Getaway Near Cuernavaca, Morelos
May 22, 2009
Palm tree-lined paths, lush gardens and stunning architecture all greet visitors as soon as the old wooden doors open to Hacienda San Gabriel de Las Palmas. Step onto the scenic grounds of the picturesque estate and be transported back in time.
The Hacienda San Gabriel de Las Palmas Hotel Spa in Amacuzac, Morelos, Mexico, is part of Tesoros or Treasures of Morelos Quality Club. Hotels in Mexico with a Tesoros label mean that every year they "undergo an exhaustive evaluation of its service, management, facilities and equipment," according to the Tesoros mission. A Tesoro hotel must have the highest quality of everything from "carefully decorated spaces...to preserving their character and authenticity."
The historic hacienda dates back to 1529, when Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés ordered its construction. Franciscan missionaries lived in and ran the hacienda along with its church (which still celebrates Masses today) until 1558 when San Gabriel was converted into a sugar plantation.
From conquistadores to Mexican Revolutionary heroes, the San Gabriel grounds are full of a rich history that visitors can now enjoy during a vacation or weekend getaway from Mexico City. The hotel's romantic atmosphere also makes the perfect backdrop for a hacienda wedding or honeymoon spot.
Hacienda San Gabriel Things To Do
Simply exploring the hacienda's many hidden nooks and waterfalls, relaxing by the pool with a book, or stepping onto the balconies that overlook the charming estate can fill a day for visitors seeking to melt away stress. But Hacienda San Gabriel also has many activities visitors can enjoy.
- Get a Spa Treatment - Tucked in a quiet corner of the hacienda, the Amate Spa has everything from massages to traditional steam baths or temazcales. Temazcales, which date back to pre-Hispanic times, are a way to sweat out toxins and, in Mexico, are practiced for healing purposes. Make sure to book appointments directly with the spa instead of the front desk.
- Go Horseback Riding - Explore the nearby rivers and vegetation on a scenic ride that both experienced and beginner riders can enjoy.
- Swim - Take a dip in the two common area pools, where waiters come by to take appetizer or drink orders. Large palm trees and bright flowers make the pool area a peaceful place to spend an afternoon.
Visitors who want to leave Hacienda San Gabriel and explore the surrounding area can:
- Raft by the nearby Amacuzac River
- Visit the nearby archeological site of Xochicalco
- Check out other neighboring haciendas
- Sky dive or enjoy aquatic sports at Tequesquitengo Lake
LUXURY ROOMS AT HACIENDA SAN GABRIEL
A major part of the hacienda experience begins when visitors open the doors to their rooms. With 20 unique rooms to choose from ranging from junior, standard, master and presidential suites, visitors won't be disappointed. Jacuzzis add a modern twist to the tastefully restored colonial-style rooms. Comfortable beds, large sitting areas, and beautifully decorated bathrooms add to the luxurious feel.
GETTING TO THE HACIENDA SAN GABRIEL
Airport pickups from both the Mexico City airport (which is about 1 1/2 to 2 hours away) and the Cuernavaca bus station (which is about 35 minutes away) can be arranged with the hotel.
From Mexico City, visitors can take a bus from the city's Terminal del Sur to Puente de Ixtla and then take a short taxi ride from there. If driving, visitors can take the Autopista del Sol toward Acapulco and exit Puente de Ixtla. The Hacienda is 3 km from the Puente de Ixtla gas station.
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