Hotel Esencia

Once the home of a style-conscious Italian aristocrat, Esencia combines immersion in nature with high-end luxury. The hotel sits secluded under the palms on the edge tropical forest overlooking the long, talc-white Xpu-Ha beach. The reef is within swimming distance of the shore.

The main villa sits over the pool with sweeping views of the sea; low-lit paths wind from here into the surrounding forest to luxuriously appointed private thatch-roofed cottages, each with its own plunge pool. Sugar cube casitas are sprinkled in a forest garden, over the sand and around a large pool and opulent main villa.

If you are too. Unless you crave an ocean view, book a garden villa. They’re far more intimate – with secluded plunge pools for two and large wood terraces with hammocks and breakfast tables, shielded from prying eyes by abundant foliage.

The hotel has two restaurants, and a huge menu of activities and tours for guests. And lots of mosquitoes – bring a net for the bed.