Upscale Living Magazine

SPECTACULA­R VIEWS AT MEXICO‘S Casa Malca Tulum

- | BY MICHELLE FARINA

Located in the middle of the ecological reserve of the Riviera Maya sits a property like no other. The Mayans believed that Tulum was the center of the universe. Pablo Escobar, formerly known for the series “Narcos” was the original owner. Casa Malca was one of the many mansions of the notorious Colombian drug trafficker and today the hotel is considered one of most exclusive hotels in Tulum. Casa Malca overlooks the idyllic beaches of the state of Quintana Roo in the Yucatan a few kilometers away from the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

Ten years later the property was purchased by art collector Lio Malca, one of the most influentia­l gallery owners in New York. The property has since then expanded and offers 42 suites and a panoramic terrace to observe the jungle and ocean. The main house and guest rooms were built by local craftsmen and artisans using locally sourced materials. Upon entering the great wooden walls that enclose Casa Malca you are instantly transporte­d to a magical wonderland with a picture perfect view of the ocean. Dramatic white lace curtains made of vintage Mexican wedding dresses showcase the entrance. The decor has an eclectic mix of industrial pieces, persian rugs and rustic contempora­ry furniture that create a bohemian charm.

Casa Malca is popular with the instagram crowd and bloggers come from all over to post pictures of the many fascinatin­g locations on the property. The grounds are filled with a luscious dense rainforest jungle with meandering paths to the rooms and common areas connecting the guests with the pool, beach, bars and restaurant­s . Everywhere you turn is a feast for the eyes, dotted with picture perfect locations throughout the property. From the beach beds to the hammocks, swinging couches and extravagan­t chairs, makes it challengin­g to decide where to relax. There are spectacula­r views of the Caribbean Sea and Casa Malcas beautifull­y kept gardens from all guest rooms.

The rooms are adorned with floor to ceiling windows, blackout drapes, couches for relaxing, double bathrooms and showers, electric curtains, and wireless charging docks for your phone. Luxurious robes are provided for your comfort along with opulent amenities. The key to your room has a secret kaleidosco­pe to look through, providing you another askew glimpse of the property. Proprietor Lio Malca has created an environmen­t in the jungle that delights all of your senses. Lio Malca’s vast personal collection of contempora­ry art consisting of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Marco Brambilla, George Condo, Keith Haring and many more. You can view the art in the luxurious rooms as well as throughout the hotel.

Highly attentive staff pampers your every whim. There are three restaurant­s, providing delicious options for everyone.

The staff is happy to serve you poolside or by the beach, so you never have to leave the beautiful scenery that surrounds you.

There is a sushi restaurant providing great nigiri and rolls. Order from The Grill restaurant where everything is roasted over flaming fire. They flame grill everything from lobster to whole fish. All of the drinks we tried were delicious and inventive. Having your waiter deliver a signature drink pool or beach side in crystal glasses adds to the elegance that Casa Malca evokes. Breakfast is included and a treat in itself from mexican huevos rancheros to pancakes. You can sit in the eclectic restaurant or on the patio overlookin­g the ocean. The coffee was unforgetta­ble. Another worthy mention would be the ribeye burger from Philosophy.

The pool area is one of the many spots for memorable photos and the undergroun­d pool is a secret to be discovered. Shhhh. If you are looking for luxury property that delights your sensations in the heart of Tulum, Casa Malca is the place to be.

 ??  ??
 ??  ??
 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Australia