Posh Punta de Mita a Heavenly Escape Vanessa Pinniger - Vancouver Sun
go to original November 10, 2013

On a private peninsula at the southernmost point of the Riviera Nayarit lies a hidden gem known as Punta de Mita, a posh 1,500-acre resort and residential community.

The moment the guarded gates to this sheltered enclave swing open at the northwest tip of Banderas Bay, it's as if you have entered another world.

Rolling fairways of two Jack Nicklaus signature championship golf courses wend their way past highend homes and pricey condos along a stretch of one of the most beautiful coastlines on the Pacific. The area is also home to two five-diamond resort properties - the Four Seasons Punta Mita Resort and The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort.

The exquisite 120-room St. Regis is nestled on 22 acres of pristine grounds and is one of the most luxurious properties in the area.

From the stunning views through the main lobby straight out to the Pacific, to the private white-sand beaches below with beachside infinity pools set against a backdrop of lush tropical gardens, this truly is paradise.

Dotting the shore are tiny islets and the Marietas Islands, a rich marine preserve with underwater caves and coral reefs perfect for diving, snorkeling and whale watching.

The serene Recede Spa is an oasis within this oasis, where you can pamper yourself in luxury. Trickling water and wisps of curtains blow in the breeze at this 10,000-square-foot sanctuary, putting you in a state of tranquillity before your treatment even begins.

The resort's signature restaurant Carolina is one of only four restaurants in Mexico with a AAA Five Diamond Award.

Staying at The St. Regis is an unrivalled experience, and attention to detail is unmatched.

The impeccable service begins when you arrive at the lobby entrance in one of the hotel's signature black Escalates or Navigators after the 45-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta's airport.

Staff proffer icy-cold towels and refreshing margaritas upon your arrival.

The pampering continues with The St. Regis' renowned butler service.

Your butler will unpack your luggage upon arrival and pack it again for departure, press your clothes and deliver a frothy cappuccino each morning to be savoured on the private terrace of your casita overlooking the ocean. Heaven. The casitas are a study in understated opulence and barefoot elegance, complete with dreamy spa bathrooms featuring free-standing soaker tubs and indoor and outdoor showers. You feel cocooned in privacy, hardly seeing another guest and never feeling crowded even on one of the busiest weekends of the year.

This is escapism at its best.

Read more at The Vancouver Sun.