Located along the infamous Costalegre Coast of Jalisco, Mexico – midway between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo – is the private luxury seaside resort of Las Alamandas. An oasis of vivid pinks, oranges and yellows, it appears to rise from the topography of pristine beach, manicured lawns and tropical foliage like a flowering hibiscus, lending the vibrancy of Mexico’s unique aesthetic tradition to its natural surroundings.
Founded by Parisian native, Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño, Las Alamandas’ ecologically sound 1500 acre paradise boasts six luxury villas, accommodating only 30 guests at any given time. It’s little wonder then that it has earned a lasting reputation for catering to the world’s most discerning travellers.
While some arrive at Las Alamandas seeking a quiet, solitary and meditative respite, others go in for intensive fitness training with A-list personal gurus like Jim Brasher and Rich Guzman; as a self-proclaimed ‘foodie in training’, I’m looking to further my knowledge of Mexican culinary traditions so have booked in for three nights to attend cooking classes with renowned chef Alejandro Aguilar.
For those looking to explore the seductive flavours of Mexico, Las Alamandas “Cooking Special” provides guests with three night’s stay in a Garden View Suite, transportation to and from either Puerto Vallarta or Manzanillo Airport, daily continental breakfast in the Oasis or Palapa Beach Club Restaurants, or – for lovers and honeymooners – a romantic evening picnic setup on one of their secluded private beaches.
Amenities include (but not limited to): fully-equipped/air-conditioned gym with ocean views, lighted tennis courts, beach club, scuba diving, snorkelling, boar rides, car tours, beach volleyball, croquet, lawn chess, mountain bikes, horseback riding on the beach, kids’ club and a surprising art gallery.
For more information, please go to www.alamandas.com.
