On an idyllic stretch of the Yucatán
coastline south of Cancún and set in 36 acres of jungle, mangrove
reserves and natural lagoons, this super-cool hideaway feels
private and exclusive (which might explain why Leonardo DiCaprio
and Sir Paul McCartney are fans).
The 128 luxe villas are minimally decorated, each with a secluded
garden bathroom. Enjoy the special Mayan Tzolkin Ritual at the
dreamy spa, explore the second largest barrier reef in the world,
or head to the Mayan ruins close by in Tulum, Chichén Itzá and
Cobá.
Come evening, have dinner at Aguamarina, the casual beachfront
restaurant serving delicious seafood, and, of course, tequilas. For
something more formal, try Ambar with its Mexican-Asian fusion
menu. Just make sure you leave room for the Chocolate Five Ways
dessert.
Wow factor: Book one of the five beachfront casitas,
so you can wake up to views of the Caribbean.
Flight time: From 14 hours to Cancún.
Go: Elegant Resorts (01244 897538; elegantresorts.co.uk) offers seven nights B&B in a Deluxe Cenote room from £1,685 per person, including British Airways flights and transfers.