Esperanza Resort: Definitive Luxury for the Modern Traveler
By Amiee White Beazley for Aspen Peak Magazine
The definition of luxury travel is certainly changing. Gone are the days of pure and unadulterated excess, as today’s luxury travel equals travel without having to think. It means allowing the resort to think for you and know exactly what you need before you do, like pool-side shoulder and foot massages, fresh coconut milk popsicles, or a culinary team that creates food focused on flavor, health and quality with cutting-edge preparations. It means a tranquil yet effective spa that offers truly beneficial treatments. Ultimately, luxury travel today should be a break from reality that leaves guests physically refreshed, spiritually nourished, and mindfully renewed.
Located just two-and-a-half hours from Denver International Airport, this new concept of luxury travel is redefined at Esperanza Resort in Cabo San Lucas. Ironically, Esperanza (operated by Auberge Resorts, which also manages the Hotel Jerome) is not new at all. In fact, it was one of the first resorts to land Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, on the map of discerning travelers 12 years ago. But while competitors have sprung up nearby, Esperanza continues to lead, not only due to its cliff side accommodations overlooking the Sea of Cortez, but its constant laser refocus on just what their guests may desire, such as guided tastings with a master tequilero or unlimited yoga and fitness classes.
With a naturally protected and private beach, and only one access point to the resort, Esperanza lassoes celebrity and society jetsetters, including Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin, Fergie and Josh Duhamel, among many others. It took only moments to realize the sustained hype built up around Esperanza was more than warranted. Freshly pressed juices on every menu, chlorophyll water to increase red blood cell counts, and vegetarian and vegan menu options are approached as serious undertakings for the Argentinian-born Chef Cerdo Gonzales (gluten-free, vegan lasagna to die for!). Each resort restaurant overlooks the ocean, and during winter, the chances of sighting a breaching whale on its migratory route only increase.
The property is divided in two halves; the hotel, comprised of 50 individual casitas and seven spectacular suites, is for adults only, and the fractional ownership aspect welcomes children and families of all ages. This allows for the peace and quiet sought by childfree travelers, while families and children can enjoy the kid-friendly pools and restaurants without fear of disturbing other guests.
The two sides merge on Thursdays for Mexicanismo fiesta nights. The culinary team crafts an over-the top buffet of Mexican food, while a Mariachi band strolls the venue, followed by fireworks over the sea. Selected local artisans bring their goods to market, where guests can purchase handcrafted items, while a resident cigar roller crafts exquisite cigars from whole leaf tobacco. The luxe life, indeed. Esperanza Resort winter rates start at $750 per night
