The ride to El Careyes may be a bit like your stay there––overall enjoyable but with some bumps and twists along the way. Although it may not match up in superior excellence to its Costalegra neighbors, El Careyes still impresses as a one of the premier resorts along the west coast of Mexico. Located 90 minutes north of Manzanillo or a 2–1/2–hour drive south from Puerto Vallarta, it's suggested to arrive during the day, so you can see the sights and better navigate the curvy roads. Or take advantage of the resort's airport pickup service, which requires a 24–hour advance reservation.

If you're used to the aged elegance of European hotels, you'll probably notice, and appreciate, the subtle Mediterranean feel that mixes with Mexican comfort at El Careyes. The hotel is no longer part of Starwood's Luxury Collection, which means even larger swings in occupancy levels. When the resort is full it is generally because of a destination wedding location crowd.

A colorful stone archway frames the entrance to the lobby and main three–story building, that curves like a pueblo–style horseshoe. Flanked by mansions in the surrounding hillsides, this quaint seaside hideaway feels like a village. A collection of vibrantly decorated casitas faces a small beach that lies on a tranquil bay dotted with private yachts. The signature lagoon–style pool situated between the hotel and the ocean is immense, inset with whirlpools and palms that spread out around the manicured grounds.

Upon check–in you'll be greeted with a complimentary glass of guava juice and shown to your ocean–view room–––even those farthest back from the beach still offer glimpses of the sea. Suites have living areas and either indoor or balcony whirlpools or plunge pools. Oceanfront rooms are larger and boast bigger balconies. Despite what you may expect from a Luxury Collection hotel, the style is purposely Mexican, with whitewashed walls, tile floors and built–in banquette seating. Furnishings include hand–painted wood nightstands and plush décor accented in bright fuchsia and lime–green. All this may change of course, after the new renovations.

Dining is limited to one open–air restaurant that faces the beach and pool. And unfortunately, Lantana's international and Mexican menu leaves a lot to be desired. At least the wine selection should satisfy. The only other on–site dining option is a deli that sells salads, sandwiches and bottles of wine. There are a number of decent restaurants in town, but you'll have to ask around and scout out the best on your own.

Most people visit El Careyes for a simple and relaxing break, spending much of their time lounging by the pool or on comfy cushions under palapas set back in the sand. A spa just off the beach offers the usual massage and aromatherapy treatments, and use of the standard hotel gym is include for no additional charge. Other facilities include rarely used tennis courts, a big–screen cinema that seats 30 on sofas, and an outside game room with pool, foosball, darts, and air hockey. Kayak Adventures offers daylong excursions that include lunch and snorkeling at protected coves. In season, the hotel is known to be popular with the polo crowd that uses a nearby club.

With its lack of gourmet dining and lavish exclusivity, El Careyes may not be as opulent as some Luxury Collection hotels, much less its two high–profile neighbors up the road. Service here is inconsistent and the construction projects may not help. The hotel will begin renovations at the end of June 2007. It will remain closed for the low season, hopefully an indication that facilities will get an upgrade and a more polished and bilingual staff will be brought on to match the new rooms.


Web Address: www.elcareyesresort.com
Total Number of Rooms: 51
Published rates: $345 to $1,175

Review and photos by Timothy Scott