W Hotels has unveiled its second property in Mexico, W Punta de Mita, located in Riviera Nayarit. This new hotel is part of the Los Veneros development on Mexico’s stunning Pacific Coast.
“We are excited to launch our new W Escape in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, a premier destination for surf and sun. This opening marks another step in expanding our brand in this region,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “W Punta de Mita brings a vibrant and stylish addition to this popular Mexican locale. We believe the hotel’s unique lifestyle programming and innovative design will attract the new generation of travelers.”
The Design
The hotel’s design draws inspiration from the local bohemian surf culture found around Banderas Bay and Sayulita, a nearby fishing and surfing village. The design embodies the rich historical, social, and spiritual context of the area, featuring elements such as: colorful Mexican themes, the blues of the bay, traditional Huichol patterns, Mexican festive imagery, breathtaking sunsets, vibrant handcrafted items, and a blend of Spanish and indigenous cultures. These influences are evident throughout the hotel’s luxurious villas, public areas, bars, and restaurants.
During construction, care was taken to preserve the natural environment, including ancient fig trees and natural springs, which are now integrated into the hotel’s design. Spring water is reused in reflection pools and the spa.
The Rooms
W Punta de Mita offers 119 stylishly designed guest villas, including an Extreme WOW Suite (W’s version of a Presidential Suite). Each villa and suite features private balconies or patios, artisanal Mexican tiled floors, headboards made from surfboards or punctured tin (reminiscent of local church designs), the signature W Bed, and Bliss® bath amenities. The decor includes repurposed vintage Mexican photographs of historical figures like Frida Kahlo. The Ocean Escape Villas resemble a pre-Hispanic fishing village, with private terraces and open-roofed patios for stargazing. The Jungle Escape Villas have private balconies with views of the surrounding natural beauty, including papelillo trees and forest vines.
The 4460 square foot, 2-bedroom Extreme WOW Suite is inspired by the Mexican Flag: red in the pool tiles, green in the surrounding vegetation, and white in the ocean views. The suite features a swimming pool around the living room, accessed by a small wooden bridge, and includes artwork by Sofia Lunz and Nacho Bernal.
The Food & Drink
W Punta de Mita has five unique dining spaces. Mesa1, one of the world’s most exclusive restaurants, is located on an island in a spring-fed lake, offering a single seating each day with a seven-course tasting menu. Spice Market, influenced by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s travels in Southeast Asia, serves Pan-Asian cuisine with a tropical twist. Chevicheria, located on the beach, offers ceviche and craft beers from a converted 1950s Chevrolet truck. Venazu, open all day, provides authentic Mexican cuisine with dishes like Taco de Langosta al Pastor and Risotto de Huitlacoche, in a lively atmosphere with ocean views.
The Special Perks
The 4000 square foot AWAY Spa is designed to feel like a forest cave, featuring glass flower chandeliers, beauty bar services, and therapy pools offering various treatments. The spa is integrated into the natural surroundings, with paths that wind around ancient fig trees and Huichol ‘Ojo de Dios’ decorations.
Other amenities include the Wave Surf Shop with non-motorized watersports, the FIT® fitness facility, and three event spaces totaling nearly 2600 square feet, perfect for receptions, meetings, and weddings. The W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service ensures guests’ needs are met at any time.
Coming Soon
Additional W Hotels are planned for Latin America, including W Panama opening in 2017, W Kanai Riviera Maya in 2018, and W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal in 2019.