4 Best Hotels in Side Trips from Mexico City, Mexico

For the ultimate luxury spa getaway, treat yourself to a couple of days at the supremely cushy Amomoxtli, a hideaway that offers an extensive array of wellness services, including temazcal sessions, yoga classes, cleansing ceremonies, reflexology, and deep-tissue massage. Rooms in this adults-only, sustainably designed resort set in a lush valley a couple of kilometers from town range from standard-size to downright spacious, and all are exquisitely decorated with many locally made crafts and accents. Common spaces are filled with contemporary art, and the outstanding Mesa de Origin restaurant serves artfully plated, locally sourced fare. The pool is one of the prettiest in town, with sweeping views of the surrounding cliffs. 

Set in an affluent, outlying neighborhood, this fashionable adults-only resort is set in a cloistered 1600s Spanish colonial hacienda but has been made over with a minimalist, contemporary Italian flair that extends to its chic bar and restaurant. After treating yourself to a soothing treatment (or several) in the exceptional Maikiki Spa, relax by the angular infinity pool. The staff make every effort to anticipate the needs of guests, many who come to celebrate special occasions. Although expensive, the hotel often offers significantly lower advance-purchase rates and packages that include breakfast and massage.

An American expat opened this hacienda-style hotel in the 1950s, and it remains one of the most exclusive lodgings in Cuernavaca, even though its somewhat stodgy personality doesn't appeal to every taste, especially younger travelers. The ample rooms are outfitted with traditional fireplaces, hand-carved bedsteads, hand-painted tiles in the bathrooms, and gilded crafts. The restaurant, with its spectacular open-air terraces and garden inhabited by flamingos, peacocks, parrots, and African cranes, is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon enjoying a leisurely meal. Again, though, the very traditional food is less a reason to dine here than the chance to soak up the splendid scenery.

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.