The credentials:
Opened in 2015, this boutique hotel, located in the popular Lafayette neighbourhood of Guadalajara, combines classical European design with a colourful Mexican aesthetic. As part of the Grupo HABITA hotels collection, you can rest assured that every effort has gone in to making this a must-stay spot for anyone with even the smallest appreciation for architecture and design.
The attractive 1940s family mansion has been lovingly renovated with the addition of a high-rise building that includes 37 rooms and suites, a dining room, spa and rooftop terrace with a pool, bar and library. Inside, striking minimalist interiors and eclectic custom furnishings run seamlessly from room to room.
Dine:
While the interiors are stunning throughout, Casa Fayette’s dining room is a particular treat, with its kitsch palm tree print, gold fringed chairs, luscious green walls and mahogany bar.
The room opens out onto a terrace, so we were able to enjoy the Continental buffet breakfast in the morning sun. For two greedy guests, the many pastries, homemade jams, yoghurt and fresh juices were a welcome sight. Hot dishes are also available from the menu, but with much exploring to be done we reluctantly held off.
Sleep:
Our room on the fourth floor had what can only be described as one helluva view across Guadalajara. With floor-to-ceiling windows at the foot of the bed, we were able to take in the cityscape as it stretched out before us, while lying sprawled across—what was without doubt—the most comfortable bed I’ve ever had the pleasure of sleeping in. So comfortable, in fact, that in the morning I had to check under the mattress to find out where I could get my hands on one.
Multifunctional pale green glass headboards cleverly divided the space between the bedroom and the bathroom, and also served as spacious wardrobes. The bathroom behind was resplendent in Carrara marble, boasting a generously-sized shower and accessorised with spoiling toiletries.
Who goes there?
This is certainly a favourite with the fashionable locals, as well as the affluent jet-set looking for a well-appointed and relaxing home away from home. While definitely a cut above in terms of experience and professionalism, all the staff were still extremely welcoming and the atmosphere was refreshingly unpretentious.
Out & about:
Guadalajara is often called Mexico’s second city and offers year-round excitement and varied, bustling districts. Lafayette is the city’s up-and-coming hotspot, as new restaurants, cafés, bars and contemporary art galleries keep locals and visitors energised through the day and night.
Casa Fayette has bicycles on hand for its guests, however the hotel is so well situated that we ended up forgoing these and walking to most places. Guadalajara Cathedral is 3km from the hotel and the colourful Abastos Market is 1.9km away.
The worst thing:
Not having the time to try out the gorgeous-looking spa.
The best thing:
Undoubtedly the hotel’s rooftop terrace. We were lucky enough to have this to ourselves for most of our stay and it’s so stunning that I hope one day to have the opportunity to share it with friends and family for a party under the stars.
With a glittering pool, sun loungers, retro bar, library and vegetable patch (!), there’s little you’re left wanting for. A striking cut-out marble structure breaks up the space between the pool and the seating area, while the hidden alcoves and well-stocked bar make whiling away the hours in this city oasis effortless.
