Guanajuato
Mexico


The Experience

Everywhere you turn in San Miguel de Allende there's a hidden fountain or a gorgeous architectural detail, but the Casa de Sierra Nevada is the crown jewel of this charming colonial city. Spread throughout six ornate mansions, the hotel is a mere two blocks from the central square El Jardin, and within walking distance of world-class artisan shopping. Orient-Express took over the hotel in February 2006, and has plans for a $5 million renovation and the addition of a spa.

The Rooms

Every room here is unique. They range from snug one-bedrooms to sprawling light-filled suites; you may want to ask the front desk to inspect the rooms first. The furniture is mostly dark wood reproductions, and the decorating touches range from talavera (majolica) to colonial-style paintings. There are some particularly lovely suites in Casa Limon, with private terraces and pool stairways as well as views into the courtyard. Most of the suites have fireplaces and terraces, and all have tiled bathrooms. Sometimes the water disappears, and the temperature of your shower tends to fluctuate with your neighbor's ablutions, but the courtyard views tend to smooth over any plumbing problems.

The Service

The waiters here are cheerful and exceptionally responsive. The front desk, on the other hand, has been known to send hapless visitors to long-extinct restaurant addresses. Make sure to inspect the final bill; sometimes the management takes a loose approach to charging. Fortunately, the staff here is notably attitude-free, and with the Orient-Express in charge, the service will no doubt improve considerably.

The Highlights

El Centro is a colonial wonder in the main house, and the only restaurant in the city to receive a AAA Four Diamond Award. Breakfast in the courtyard is served with Old World formality -- no buffets here. Several blocks away is Casa del Parque, comfortably ensconced in what was once the city's public laundry. An informal alternative to El Centro, the restaurant is steps away from the shady, serene Parque Benito Juarez.

-- Laurel Delp

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