Introducing Casa Salles, A Luxurious Boutique Hotel in the Heart of Tequila, Mexico
Tequila's newest boutique hotel invites guests to experience Mexican hospitality along with the history and craftsmanship of the region's native spirit. Located within picturesque grounds adjacent to the La Guarreña distillery, home of tequila brand El Tequileño, Casa Salles immerses visitors in the culture of this historic town and the spirit of El Tequileño. Each floor has a window that looks out onto the distillery. You will smell agave cooking as you relax by the pool in the afternoon and sip it in cocktails underneath the hotel's 150-year-old-mango trees in the evening. Not only for tequila aficionados, Casa Salles provides an escape for culture-seekers, families, staycationers, and everyone in between.The property takes its name from a family of tequila craftsmen, icons in the town where the spirit was born. Over 60 years ago, it was master distiller Don Jorge Salles Cuervo that you'd find at family celebrations on the grounds that now house the hotel. Today, his grandson, third generation Master Distiller, Jorge Antonio Salles, works the copper stills at the neighboring operation. You'll get a taste of the history and authenticity of the region in Casa Salle's brand of hospitality, but the decor of the hotel is distinctively modern. The 25 guest rooms are sleek and well-appointed with Ashley beds and rainfall showers, while you'll find industrial design flourishes and exposed brickwork in the communal spaces. Overall, think contemporary luxury, with a Mexican twist. Many of the rooms feature balconies with views of the signature mango trees that grow throughout the property. They provide the canopy in the hotel's courtyard - cooling shade for a quick drink with friends, or a picturesque backdrop for larger events and weddings. You can spend your day lounging poolside at an oasis that offers soothing waterfalls, chic chaises and a loveseat dangling from the sturdy branches of one of those near mythical trees. The Reposado Spa offers a tranquil sanctuary as well, with massages and facials available in luxurious surroundings. Of course, no visit to this region is complete without a taste of the namesake spirit. You can delve into the liquid legacy of the Salles family by booking a private distillery tour and sample a variety of El Tequileño's expressions with a tasting at Mango Cocina de Origen, the property's restaurant and culinary heart. Any tequila will pair nicely with the cuisine here. The menu showcases a celebration of regional Mexican fare with international twists. Executive Chef, Sergio Perez Dominguez has honed his craft in some of his native country's best kitchens (K'u'uk, Mundo Cuervo) and notable eateries in the U.S. (Chicago's Michelin-starred Mexique) and he's created a destination that is popular with locals and hotel guests alike. Find a seat in the 40 seat dining room or on the 24 seat patio and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner amongst newfound friends. "Our door is open to everyone and everybody comes," says Executive Chef Sergio Perez Dominguez. "We aim for quality cuisine and attentive service, complemented by the relaxing surrounding. People come here for an unforgettable experience."Once you're done touring La Guarreña and the other nearby distilleries, Casa Salles will work with you to coordinate a wide range of activities. Perhaps you'd like to ride a horseback ride through nearby agave fields or take a guided hike down into the tequila canyon to visit the Loz Azules waterfalls. These flow with the same spring water from El Volcan de Tequila which is used in El Tequileño's production process. And of course, you can always explore the cobblestoned streets of the historic town itself. Casa Salles is within walking distance of Tequila's town square, so book a walking tour or just amble over. You'll find plenty of sights that showcase the magic of this World UNESCO heritage site, and surely you'll sample a few drinks along the way. Any stay at Casa Salles will ensure you experience every side of this renowned region. "Tequila for me is not just a spirit, it's a culture," says Gina Quirarte Salles, Director of Experiences for Casa Salles. "Casa Salles immerses you into the culture of tequila - you can see it made, you can smell it, you can feel it. A visit here really makes you part of this historic story."