Architect's Own Pacific Estate with Three Infinity Pools, Huatulco, Mexico

Set above the Pacific at Huatulco, on the southern coast of Oaxaca, this six-suite estate was designed and built by one of Mexico's most admired contemporary architects as his own coastal retreat. Ochre walls, stone stairways and shaded courtyards lead guests gradually through the house before the living pavilion opens fully onto the ocean, all within some 6,000 square metres of tropical gardens.

The house follows the tradition of Barragán and Legorreta, built from light, shadow and colour rather than glass and steel. A raked-sand courtyard planted with palms sets a calm tone at the entrance; beyond it, a white canopy floats above the main pool and the terraces step down towards the sea. Paintings, sculpture and ceramics by leading Mexican artists hang in the bedrooms, corridors and living spaces, giving the interiors a collected, personal feel.

There are three unheated infinity pools, each turned towards a different stretch of coastline and each with its own terrace and shade, as well as a cold plunge pool. Stone steps descend from the gardens to a beach of sand and rock, and to a natural rock platform for swimming in the ocean when conditions allow.

Six air-conditioned suites of around 70 square metres each sleep up to fourteen guests. Five have king-size beds and one has two queen-size beds, which works well for families or friends sharing. Every suite has its own bathroom and a sitting area, with timber ceilings, natural materials and outlooks over the gardens or the water.

The estate is fully staffed by a chef, butler, housekeepers and security team, and all meals are included, with an emphasis on Oaxacan cooking and fresh local produce. Red and white wine is served with meals, dietary requirements are catered for and cooking classes with the chef are part of the stay. Meals can be taken in eight to ten places across the grounds, from shaded garden tables to a dining deck built out over the cliff.

An air-conditioned spa room is used for massage and physiotherapy, both included, and a Technogym fitness room looks out over the garden. A floodlit tennis court allows for play into the evening. For leadership offsites and board retreats, a meeting room seats fourteen with audiovisual and conferencing equipment, supported by redundant Starlink internet.

Huatulco is the quieter end of Mexico's Pacific coast: nine bays and dozens of beaches backed by coastal forest, with far less development than the country's better-known resorts. Boating, deep-sea fishing and golf can all be arranged, and Huatulco International Airport is around twenty minutes away, with transfers included.

Good to know

Rates include taxes, all food and meals, wine with meals, staff service, massages, physiotherapy, cooking classes and airport transfers. Spirits and other alcoholic drinks are charged separately, as are boating, fishing and golf. A four-night minimum stay applies throughout the year, including Christmas and New Year, when a festive rate applies. Children are welcome and pets can be accommodated by prior arrangement. Staff gratuities are at guests' discretion; around 8% of the rental is suggested.