3 Best Hotels in Side Trips from Mexico City, Mexico

With a knockout view of town, multiple dining and nightlife options, a pool, Saturday night fireworks, a golf course, a spa, and kids' activities, this modern, upscale resort named for the mountain on which it's perched has the most extensive amenities of any property in town. It's a great choice for families, but the location across the valley from downtown can be a little inconvenient, especially in the evening when the funicular is no longer running. Rooms are comfortably furnished, most with wonderful views, but they're a bit lacking in character.

Set amid the gardens and weekend homes just south of Cuernavaca in exclusive Lomas de Jiutepec, this sustainably designed member of Fiesta Americana's luxury boutique Curamoria brand offers an array of eco-minded amenities to ensure a relaxing stay, including bike rentals, a good restaurant and bar, a conventional pool as well as a unique “biopiscina” natural swimming pond, an aviary, and a butterfly enclosure. Rooms are a bit cookie-cutter in design, but they're modern and comfortable. The 12 acres of grounds are beautifully landscaped and create a true sense of seclusion and serenity, even when the hotel is full. Standard rates don't include the extensive breakfast buffet, but many kinds of packages are offered.

Deep in the forest overlooking a man-made lake, this unique property quickly made a splash on the Valle lodging scene. Each suite is a separate structure—a combination of traditional Mexican and hip modern design—with a view terrace, fireplace, and accommodations for at least four. The fashionable restaurant overlooks the lake, pool, and Jacuzzi, so you can enjoy first-class cuisine and drinks while supervising the kids.