No compensation was received for this post. I was invited on a press trip which facilitated the writing of this post.
Having backpacked through as much of Europe as we could manage in our 8 month stint in Edinburgh, Scotland, you would think Southern California residents like us would have certainly been to Mexico (especially the Baja California region). But outside of the very typical and unadventurous cruiseline stops of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas, our Mexican travel experiences have been sadly underserved. That is until a recent trip to Loreto, Mexico and a stay at the fantastic Villa del Palmar Resort and Spa at the Islands of Loreto, far from city lights nestled in Sierra de la Giganta along the Sea of Cortez, just south of the town of Loreto.
Far from the city lights, millions of stars shine brighter than ever over the resort.
Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto
Loreto, the first Spanish outpost on the Baja California Peninsula, was settled in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries and served as the capital of Las Californias until 1777, when it was moved to Monterey. The old mission (Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto) still stands and functions as a local church in the streets of downtown.
Just a short walk past the mission, through the town square, you can stroll down Loreto’s waterside walk known as malecón. When we were there, Loreto was celebrating Carnaval with their own festival featuring music, dancing, food and cerveza.
Along with its rich history and beautiful desert landscape, Loreto is home to Mexico’s largest marine park which extends 50 miles south from Isla Coronado in the north to Isla Santa Catalina and 25 miles east into the Sea of Cortez. With over 800 species of marine life in the Sea of Cortez, everything from whale and dolphin sightings to world class diving and snorkeling spots make boat excursions a must!
The Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto gives travelers a front row seat to everything the region has to offer with 5-star accommodations and hospitality. Room options range from 1 bedroom studio to 3 bedroom suites, and all include a kitchenette and a private balcony overlooking the resort’s 5 pools and secluded beach.
The resort even offers a “glamping” option for those interested in beach camping with a luxurious spin… amenities and services include a private terrace within steps of the beach, television, king bed, full bathroom and even butler service.
The resort features activities and entertainment options daily for the entire family, including a Kids Club for children ages 5 to 12. (During my stay I met a family of 5 in the resort and they raved about how much fun the kids were having and how surprisingly kid friendly the hotel is.) From guided hiking, yoga and water aerobics during the day to karaoke, movies and a Mexican themed party at night, there will never be a dull moment! Unless, of course, if you’re looking for complete relaxation, as the spa, pools or beach also present plenty of options. And that really just scrapes the surface of everything Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto has to offer. Beach and water activities like paddle boarding and glass bottom kayaks, whale and dolphin watching excursions, and snorkeling or diving are all readily available.
Perhaps the highlight of the trip was the chance to snorkel with staff member Rolfe and dig up fresh chocolate clams in the bay, which incidentally, they also serve in the resort’s restaurant. Not only did he show us how to find them, he spent at least a half hour helping us dig up a bag full. Afterwards, he cracked them all open and served them up to a small crowd right on the beach. There wasn’t a single staff member I met that didn’t have the same passionate attitude for making my stay truly memorable. This is definitely a destination I will be bringing my family back to in the future!
Getting there: Last month, Alaska Airlines announced the expansion of flight options from LAX to the Islands of Loreto. The daily schedule is timed to help assist travelers who may be connecting through Los Angeles. In partnership with the airline, the Villa del Palmar is offering several four day/three night air-inclusive travel package which include an eco adventure, Baja Best Fishing and Spa Indulgence options. Prices start at just $879 per person, making this luxury destination a reality for adventurers, romantics, and families. For more information about these packages, visit the resort online or call 866.209.0726.
To connect with the resort, visit the Villa del Palmar on their social channels:
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