Mexico has a way of getting under your skin. Perhaps it’s the colour, the warmth, the food, the rhythm of life or the sheer variety of landscapes, from jungle-fringed Caribbean shores to the wild Pacific coast and bustling streets filled with art, architecture and the scent of something delicious cooking nearby.

For those looking to escape somewhere a little further afield, Mexico offers an intoxicating mix of adventure and indulgence. And while its famous beaches are certainly reason enough to go, there is far more to discover beyond the shoreline. Think intimate boutique hotels hidden among tropical gardens, colourful retreats overlooking the ocean, historic city stays and sophisticated urban hideaways where Mexico’s rich culture is woven into every detail.

From the turquoise waters of Tulum to the vibrant streets of Mexico City, these six HIP Hotels offer a more personal way to experience one of the world's most captivating countries.

Jashita Hotel

Tulum, Quintana Roo

Just north of Tulum, tucked away on the peaceful shores of Soliman Bay, Jashita Tulum feels wonderfully removed from the energy of the Riviera Maya. This secluded retreat is all about reconnecting with nature, whether snorkelling among colourful fish and coral just off the beach, practising yoga overlooking the turquoise Caribbean or surrendering to a treatment at the treetop Caoba Spa. Its sun-filled rooms and suites echo the beauty of the surrounding landscape, while Pandano Restaurant brings together Italian, Mexican and international flavours. For a slower side of Tulum, where jungle, sea and serenity take centre stage, Jashita is hard to beat.

• 
• 
• 

Las Alamandas Resort

Costalegre, Jalisco

Hidden within a spectacular 2,000-acre nature reserve on Mexico's Pacific coast, Las Alamandas is the kind of place that makes disappearing for a while feel particularly appealing. Between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo, this colourful hideaway is surrounded by pristine beaches, freshwater lagoons, coves and wild landscapes. Just 18 suites offer a sense of intimacy, decorated in vivid pink hues and filled with folk art, while days can be spent horse riding, cycling through the estate, exploring the wildlife or simply doing very little at all. Come August to November, guests may also witness the unforgettable sight of newly hatched turtles making their way towards the sea.

• 
• 
• 

Las Casas B+B Hotel

Cuernavaca, Morelos

In the historic heart of Cuernavaca, Las Casas B+B is a stylish little retreat where contemporary design meets the romance of colonial Mexico. Known as the city of eternal spring, Cuernavaca is filled with colourful gardens, historic landmarks and a lively culinary scene, making this an ideal base for exploring beyond the beach. The hotel itself is wonderfully intimate, with just 11 hideaway-style rooms, a tropical outdoor pool and a charming courtyard restaurant. Come evening, the courtyard transforms into a lively secret garden, with cocktails, music and the gentle buzz of city life beyond its walls.

• 
• 
• 

Playa Escondida

Sayulita, Riviera Nayarit

Somewhere between jungle and sea, Playa Escondida lives up to its name. Tucked beside a private cove on Mexico's Riviera Nayarit, this intimate boutique retreat is surrounded by lush greenery, dramatic rock formations and the gentle rhythm of the Pacific. Days here are wonderfully uncomplicated: wander barefoot along the beach, settle into a private jacuzzi beneath the palms, practise yoga above the ocean or enjoy a treatment in one of the open-air palapa cabanas. Dining is equally relaxed, from fresh seafood and colourful tostadas to cocktails at the thatched beach bar. For those seeking Mexico at its most natural, romantic and unhurried, this is the place.

• 
• 
• 

Casa Cupula Boutique Hotel

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Perched high above Banderas Bay, Casa Cupula offers a quieter perspective on Puerto Vallarta. Tucked into the lush hills above the lively Zona Romántica, this intimate adults-only boutique hotel combines contemporary design, warm hospitality and panoramic views of the Pacific and Sierra Madre mountains. With just 19 rooms and suites, it feels wonderfully personal, while mosaic-tiled pools, a saltwater pool and a spa with sauna, steam room and jacuzzi make it easy to settle into holiday mode. When you do fancy venturing out, the beaches, restaurants, galleries and energy of downtown Puerto Vallarta are all within easy reach.

• 
• 
• 

Las Alcobas

Mexico City

For something altogether more urban, Las Alcobas offers a sophisticated introduction to Mexico City. Once a palatial private residence, this intimate boutique hotel sits in the heart of Polanco, surrounded by some of the city's finest restaurants, galleries, fashion houses and cultural landmarks. Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, its 35 alcoves combine sleek contemporary interiors with the warmth and comfort of a private home. At Anatol, seasonal, ingredient-led cuisine draws on Mexico's rich culinary traditions, while Aurora Spa offers a tranquil retreat within the city, combining indigenous ingredients and traditional healing techniques with modern treatments. It's Mexico City at its most polished, personal and effortlessly chic.

• 
• 
• 

Mexico, the HIP way

From turquoise Caribbean beaches and wild Pacific coastlines to historic city centres and sophisticated urban neighbourhoods, Mexico rewards those willing to look beyond the obvious.

These six hotels each offer a different way into the country, whether that means waking to the sound of the sea, exploring centuries-old streets, lingering over an exceptional meal or simply finding a quiet corner in which to do absolutely nothing.

Because perhaps the greatest luxury of travelling to Mexico is having the freedom to choose your own rhythm. One day might begin beneath a jungle canopy and end with your feet in the sand; the next could be spent wandering galleries, discovering local flavours or watching the city come alive after dark.

Wherever you choose to begin, Mexico is calling.