El Patio 77

Green and grand: this eco-conscious B&B in Mexico City is a handsomely renovated 19th-century mansion

Somehow we expected El Patio 77, Mexico City’s first eco-friendly guesthouse, to be, well, more eco than elegant. But when the grand wrought-iron front gates swung open, we entered a lofty stone courtyard with a 3-tiered fountain that led into a black-and-white tiled lobby of chaise longues and chandeliers. Original fittings from this aristocratic home of the 1890s, like the spiral staircase and oak beams, are on display; what you don’t see are the solar panels on the roof and the battery-operated water recycling system in the basement.

This ingenious mix of progressive green facilities and graceful relics of the past was conjured up by a French-and-Mexican partnership: Alan, a Mexico City native, and Diego, who is originally from Brittany but has lived nearly a decade in the city. They are keenly aware of the water shortage problems facing this huge capital and are dedicated to preserving and utilising natural resources. But that doesn’t mean the mood at their beautiful 8-room B&B is smug - chat between guests at the breakfast terrace is affable; older children are welcome; local artists hang paintings on the exposed-brick walls. It’s a classy mix of sociability and sustainability.

Highs

• Quiet location in the bohemian San Rafael barrio, near the large San Cosme market and Metro stop
• Spacious rooms, simply but creatively decorated with crafts and materials from specific Mexican states; all with WiFi
• Great value for money
• Friendly hosts who are happy to discuss (in excellent English) either their eco-ethos or where to buy the best burritos
• A mini art gallery: paintings and sculptures from local La 77 gallery on show throughout the house

Lows

• The smaller rooms share a bathroom, which can mean queues for the morning shower. Book a suite if you want your own space
• The breakfast terrace is small so there is often a wait for tables when the hotel is full - but breakfast is worth the wait
• No other meals are served but it's an easy stroll to a good choice of restaurants and bars
• Some may find the neighbourhood slightly down-at-heel and off the beaten track; you're not in the heart of the action here