Getaway: Hacienda San Angel
Handy to Everything

By Heather Wilson
Summer-Fall 2004

This refined adult retreat in the heart of Vallarta puts you right where the action is, attentive owner Janice Chatterton and her bilingual staff demonstrating the warm hospitality Mexico is known for in an ambiance of sumptuous serenity.

Major landmarks so close it seems you can reach out and touch them from this nine-suite privileged playground with 360-degree bay and town views, Hacienda San Angel is the angelic-themed union of three special homes – one given to actor Richard Burton’s wife Susan Hunt for Valentine’s Day, 1977.

Lovingly restored to evoke a sophisticated marriage of Old World and classic Puerto Vallarta charm, the architectural details – arches, niches, cupolas, palapas, fountains, hand-painted tiles – are intrinsic to classic Vallarta style, while museum-quality artifacts, including original art and tapestries, date back to 17th-century Europe and were once owned by prominent Mexican families.

Suites are hedonistic havens, very private, one-of-a-kind and beautifully appointed with balcony or terrace, air conditioning, fan, phone, cable TV and DVD player, with free DSL wireless Internet access available.

Common areas are chic and expansive while their mood is intimate, paths meandering to lush tropical gardens, sparkling pools and terraces at various elevations, a rooftop Jacuzzi and a spectacular Grand Room, where guests discerning enough to realize what a happy find this place is gather for cultured conversation during the complimentary afternoon cocktail hour.

A delicious continental breakfast on the house sets the tone for a picture-perfect day. And since it’s gorgeous here after dark, too – stars twinkling overhead, city lights cascading to the moonlit bay and flickering candles tracing walkways – a romantic dinner prepared by the house chef is a tantalizing alternative to going out.

On the other hand, Vallarta boasts more than a thousand restaurants. And because Chatterton’s appreciation for the finer things in life includes gourmet dining, her considered recommendations tend to please.

So, whether using Hacienda San Angel as the perfect hiding place from the cares of the world or as an ideal base from which to discover Puerto Vallarta, expect to love it.