Visitors to Guanajuato, one of the most picturesque cities in all of Mexico, invariably head first to downtown’s Jardin Union, location of the impressive Teatro Juarez and ancient Church of San Diego. And guests staying at the Edelmira Hotel enjoy a tremendous head start, as they are already right there at that very address, in the heart of the Centro Historico.
For centuries, Guanajuato was an important silver mining center, becoming one of the richest cities in Mexico during the Spanish colonial period. With its wealth, it erected beautiful buildings, even importing French architects to help design the city. The central historic district — including the 19th-century mansion that now houses the Edelmira Hotel — reflects this opulence. Its recent renovation by the Stayberry Group of hotels is the second such conversion project undertaken by the chain; and judging by the results, the company has mastered the art of blending old-fashioned elegance with modern comforts.
Space is at a premium in Guanajuato, a city of narrow alleys, winding streets and no tall buildings to speak of. The designers of the Edelmira have succeeded in carving out of the compact building 27 sizable rooms and suites in four different configurations. There was no stinting on the bathrooms, either: not all of them have tubs, but the shower stalls are quite spacious. The living areas of the guest rooms are equipped with all the conveniences: ample beds with deluxe mattresses; central air condition and heating for the weather fluctuations in this hilly city; flat screen TV’s with cable reception; and plush robes and slippers. The tasteful wooden furniture is complemented by an interior wall of multi-hued stone facing.
The Edelmira has even managed to squeese in a small indoor heated swimming pool and whirlpool, tucked away in a cozy corner ideal for relaxing. There is a full-service spa as well, for extra pampering. The top floor houses the Terrace Bar, an extremely nice place to sip a cocktail while enjoying the view overlooking the city. Free wi-fi is offered in the lobby.
Although there are some excellent restaurants in Guanajuato, as well as lovely places to sit and eat al fresco, do not miss the chance to eat at the Edelmira’s restaurant. Make sure to eat all three courses: there are fancy appetizers, local specialties, surprisingly good seafood for an inland city, and scrumptious desserts. You can also have dinner served in your room.
There are not that many luxury options in the very heart of this UNESCO World Heritage destination, so it is heartening to welcome the Edelmira into the exclusive club.
No. of rooms: 27
Published rates: USD $184-283. You can compare rates at Expedia and Hotels.com
Text and photos by Buzzy Gordon, who was a guest of the Edelmira Hotel Boutique for purposes of review. Booking arrangements by Concierge Online, a Mexican company specializing in providing tourism services.
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