Tucked into the cliffside of Riveria Nayarit, the One & Only Mandarina is set on 300 acres of lush tropical rainforest. When you arrive, your drive winds through a pathway covered in trees and flowering bushes, giving you the feeling you’re heading into the jungle…and you are.
The coastal rainforest where the One & Only Mandarina calls home is one of the most gorgeous stretches of land we’ve seen. Exotic birds and flowers thrive here, adorable, curious coatis are known to try and sneak treats from unsuspecting guests, and even from the top of the cliffs you can hear the waves crashing below. It is, to put it bluntly, an awe-inspiring place to be.
From the private plunge pools at the villas to pools overlooking the sea, the pool scene at the One & Only Mandarina is one of the best we’ve ever seen. Even the family-friendly pool is surrounded by colorful cabanas, lush loungers, and vibrant views of the coast. At the adults only pool, the sounds of water lapping against the side of the pool and the sea below are interrupted only by the clicking of glasses and the roar of laughter as guests enjoy their escape to paradise.
At the villas, private plunge pools beckon you in for a morning dip and treehouses are nestled amongst 200-year old trees that have been carefully preserved. Yes, a hotel is functioning within the jungle but it’s been so carefully placed here as to not disrupt nature anymore than it must, that seems almost as if a symbiotic relationship has begun.
Down at the Jetty Beach Club, you’ll find the softest sand, water calm enough to float in, and delicious food and drink at the restaurant which is just steps from the beach.
And speaking of food, famed Chef Enrique Olvera has his name on one of the five dining options at the Mandarina property. Be sure to enjoy a dinner at Carao where Olvera has brought a distinctly Mexican flare while using modern techniques and flavors. The stunning views only add to the experience and no matter which restaurants you choose (we tried them all), you’re bound to be delighted and leave full!
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