A GEM in the jungle

Step foot in this jungle-clad sanctuary originally built as a remote hideaway for an Italian duchess, and you’ll feel just like the royalty who once roamed here.

Astretch of Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s north-eastern Yucatán Peninsula plays host to Hotel Esencia – a former private hideaway for aristocrats, where you can roll out of bed and stroll on soft white-sand beaches.

This picturesque 20-hectare estate halfway between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, replete with exclusive local art, sees guests dine on Mexico’s eclectic regional cuisine before spa treatments under traditional palapa thatched roofs.

And now there’s another reason to visit this quiet corner of the Caribbean. The newly opened Esencia Mansion is a sprawling four-suite estate within the grounds of Hotel Esencia, with its own movie theatre and underground bar (with a secret entrance from the jungle).

The art lovers’ abode

Owned by Hollywood producer and entertainment entrepreneur Kevin Wendle, this spectacular white stucco property also has its own fitness studio, three pools and entertaining terrace.

Created in collaboration with New York-based Giancarlo Valle – who has worked with Wendle on the design of his residential properties in New York and Rhode Island – the mansion is said to be one of the grandest private residences on the Riviera Maya.

Arrive via a helicopter landing pad where your personal concierge will lead you to your private residence.

The master suite has a state-ofthe-art bathtub, indoor/outdoor pool and an adjacent office that opens onto a terrace with a hammock for afternoon siestas. Three other suites have ensuites, outdoor terraces and a studio lounge. Wander inside and pause to take in the art lining the walls – decorative objects from Wendle’s impressive personal art collection, beside bespoke creations made exclusively for the mansion by artist Marcel Dzama.

Spend your days in the indoor fitness studio where you have a virtual ondemand personal trainer, or watch a movie in the hidden screening room before retiring to the main living room to make apéritifs. Before the day ends, sit on the rooftop terrace and watch the sun set over the ocean and lush jungle canopy. You will never want to leave. hotelesencia.com 01 There are living spaces for days at the new Esencia Mansion 02 - 04 Stylish interiors bring the outdoors in All images © Tanveer Badal

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