Links & More Info
Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas
Hacienda San Gabriel is reached by an enchanting drive up the mountains around Mexico City and is marked by lush, tropical vegetation and epic nightly thunderstorms. The hacienda itself was part of Hernando Cortez’s personal properties, which spread all over the state. At the Hacienda, you can explore the grounds, enjoy the pool and poolside bar, book a spa day, or schedule a horseback ride through the countryside.
Xochimilco
If you schedule your flight to arrive early enough, we can stop by the floating gardens of Xochimilco on the way out of Mexico City. These canals, along with artificial islands called chinampas, attract tourists and other city residents to ride on colorful picnic boats called “trajineras” . We can stop at the food stands to grab tacos and micheladas and enjoy a quick bite on the water while we take in the scenery.
Cuernavaca
Cuernavaca is the lush capital of Mexico’s Morelos state, cradled by the Tepozteco Mountains south of Mexico City. The colonial city center features the 16th-century Palace of Cortés, former home of Spanish conqueror Hernán Cortés and now a history museum with murals by Mexican artist Diego Rivera.
Las Mañanitas
Our first pick for a rehearsal dinner, but it's a work in progress. This sumptuous, authentic Mexican hacienda is located in the center of Cuernavaca. In the exotic sculpture gardens, elegant peacocks strut about and blue parrots perch in the trees. Eva's been in love with their all-fresh strawberry daiquiris since she was a child. After dinner, Don Jorge, a father figure to her, would charm his guests with rounds of coffee liqueur which he used to conjure ghosts. All in all, it's another magical hacienda that rivals San Gabriel.
Tepoztlán
Surrounded by sandstone monoliths that throw off a russet glow at sunset, Tepoztlán is a magical place. It’s a popular place for practitioners of astrology, meditation, yoga, and other New Age pursuits, as well as Mexico City residents young and old for whom Cuernavaca has lost some appeal. You'll still find women selling homegrown produce in the lively weekend market surrounding the main square, and traditional celebrations that predate the conquest.