Hacienda Los Laureles

Modernised 19th-century hacienda in a garden setting on the fringes of Oaxaca’s historic centre

Los Laureles is situated in San Felipe del Agua - an upscale but authentic Mexican neighbourhood 10 minutes north of Oaxaca’s historic centre. The area takes its name from the colonial aqueduct that supplied water to the city for many years.

The hacienda has a health and beauty focus, with a gym, a spa, a heated Jacuzzi and an outdoor pool. The stone igloo in the garden is a temazcal, a sweat lodge with medicinal herbs and traditional chanting. And if you feel in need of a little spiritual cleansing, there’s a native shaman on hand to banish away evil spirits. The 25 white-washed rooms, serene atmosphere and spacious gardens are designed to make you feel as soothed as possible, and attract hard-working business people and freewheeling travellers alike. After a day exploring the archaeological sites of Mitla, Monte Albán or Yagul, it's the perfect sanctuary to return to.

Highs

• There are peaceful and beautifully-kept gardens with mountain views
• The ambiance is calming and unhurried
• The spa has a temazcal steam bath, a hot tub, a pool and a mini-gym
• There’s a good restaurant serving regional Oaxacan dishes

Lows

• Not for lovers of minimalism. Furnishings are traditional in keeping with the age of the property
• WiFi access is patchy and there’s no guest computer
• It's a 10-minute drive into the centre of town - you'll need to take a taxi or have your own hire car
• Room rates don't include breakfast