Stepping Into A World Of Sensory Delight

I’ve been transported from the Pacific Coast Highway in California to what seems like the PCH of Mexico and I’m admiring the coastal scenery in our private transfer from Cabo to Todos Santos. I know I’ve landed in Mexico when our driver offers us beers for the commute. It’s 1pm on a Tuesday – but we’re on Mexico time now.

We inch closer to our destination, and after a few U-turns, we spot the sign ‘Paradero Hotels.’ If the word hidden gem had a destination, this would be it. After all, the term Paradero translates to ‘stop on the road.’ Swaths of land amongst vast deserts pave the path and suddenly a wave of calm washes over me – we’ve arrived in paradise. We’re greeted with a gentle smile and our bags are on their way to our room so that we can begin to experience the magic of Paradero. 

Our journey begins with a copal ritual to set intentions for our stay. I begin to think, how often do we take the time to set intentions for our day to day, let alone our vacations? A few thoughts of gratitude begin to settle in as we enter the invigorating space.

Designed by architects Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo, the hotel boasts luxurious sanctuary-like interiors and beige structures which blend effortlessly into its landscape. Pebbled with palm trees and with a 100,000-square-foot botanical garden planted with endemic species like Mojave yucca and red sand verbena, we’re swiftly immersed into Todos Santos charming surroundings. The Living Room (which serves as the lobby and common area), with views of the low-water garden brings together the communal ethos. Two welcome drinks in hand, a friendly staff member guides us to our room.

Our personal sanctuary features a set of spiral stairs leading to the bedroom which boasts natural elements like wood and concrete, rattan accents and a comforting minimalist design. The bathroom, separated by an open-air thoroughfare features a shower with a window which peers into the vast deserts. Spirling up to the third floor we are greeted by our private alluring rooftop suite. Furnished with two plush loungers, a suspended star net and with views of the farmlands and mountains, my mind settles into a deeper state of tranquility.

The enticing aromas from the hotel restaurant seizes my senses. Elevated to theater, the hotel restaurant features an open-fire kitchen and a traditional Oaxacan clay oven. Chefs are crafting their illustrious plates while mingling with guests seated at the bar. The seasonal menu crafted by Chef Eduardo Rios features ingredients from the garden, the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez, bringing land and sea into perfect harmony. Piquant oysters become a topic of passionate discussion with our new friends  seated at the communal table with us before we indulge in a walk amongst the brisk, bountiful gardens to further soak in Todos Santos’s enchanting surroundings.

The next morning, my senses awaken to the euphonious melody of birds chirping and the refreshingly crisp morning air. Feeling more connected to nature and my body, I’m eager to settle deeper into this alignment with morning yoga. A few downward dogs and a moment of gratitude in shavasana, and I’m ready to be immersed in the culture and beauty of Todos Santos. 

An experienced centered hotel, Paradero offers guests a variety of activities including Temazcal (a centuries old healing ritual), art walks and gardening classes, encouraging an immersion into local culture and a rekindling of connection to nature. Enamored by the gardens and farming lands that extend to the peaks of our horizon, as well as the locally sourced flavor-forward meals we’ve been indulging in the past few days, we opt for the gardening class as our first experience. We embark on a tour of Paradero’s local produce and species with six Paradero guests who by the end of the experience, become long time friends. Knowledgeable locals share techniques to sustainably and organically grow our own produce at home.

A day in the garden transforms to one by the water – Paradero’s half moon infinity pool with views of the high-desert mountains and Las Palmas beach. We swim up to the bar for two cocktails to enjoy while watching pink and orange hues paint the sky.

After another memorable dinner, the evening ends with a nightcap in our private star net. Pro tip: if weather permits, grab your comforter, a pillow and sleep amongst the stars.

The next morning, I head to Ojo de Agua, Paradero’s below-ground spa to indulge in a chakra balancing treatment and massage. Maybe it’s the fact that I’m immersed in nature during the treatment or that my body was overdue for a massage – either way I’m in a state of bliss and feeling more connected to myself. 

Whether you’re searching for moments of intentional self-care and an opportunity to disconnect, or encouraged to experience the culture of Paradero for yourself, a trip to this one-of-a-kind location will leave you with a refreshed mind and body, an inspired palate and a deeper connection with yourself. 

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