THE BACKGROUND 

With its stunning and varied landscapes, fantastic food and rich history and culture (including 35 Unesco World Heritage sites), Mexico has been a popular tourist destination for decades. In fact, it’s the second most visited country of the Americas, right after the USA.  

Increasingly, those in the know are eschewing the well-trodden resort towns of Tulum and Cancún for the sun-soaked west coast. If pristine white-sand beaches and year-round tropical climates are on your agenda, look no further than Riviera Nayarit, a 200-mile stretch of Pacific coastline that’s ideally located just north of Puerto Vallarta. Nestled within this scenic corner of the country is a burgeoning luxury neighbourhood that’s well and truly off the beaten track. Punta Mita is a 1,500-acre private peninsula and gated neighbourhood that’s home to branches of the St Regis and Four Seasons hotels, so you know you’re in good company. It’s a luxurious slice of Mexico centred around a golf course and a handful of luxury properties. Yet, with its stunning wildlife (including curious humpback whales), and rugged yet eminently Instagrammable coastline, the area is also perfect for surfers and nature lovers – making it the best of both worlds. And with a dependably pleasant temperature throughout November, December and January, it’s the ideal winter sun destination. 

THE VILLA

The wildlife and landscape of this corner of the world may be a thing of beauty, but it’s hard to match the architectural marvel of Casa Mita. This sprawling seven-bedroom beachfront mansion was designed by renowned local architect Pepe de Yturbe, who balances elegant minimalism with a uniquely Mexican colour palette. Sleek white interiors and rich wooden furnishings are contrasted with bold uses of burnt vermilion, deep sea blue and lush tropical greens. A master of blurring the lines between interior and exterior design, the house flows beautifully from inside to outside, with every bedroom facing the ocean. Casa Mita is a brand-new property under the SJ Villas portfolio, and a short private transfer directly from Puerto Vallarta airport. During their stay, visitors will have plenty to keep them occupied, with a swimming pool and Jacuzzi, outdoor cooking and pizza oven, classes on request (surfing, yoga, fitness etc) and the world-class Kupuri Beach Club on your doorstep. So it’s perfect for a family getaway or the increasingly popular multi-generational travel. A dedicated concierge team, private chef and housekeeping will attend to your every need, and the variety of excursions available coupled with the luxurious privacy and tranquillity of the property and neighbourhood means you can make Casa Mita your own (preferably for years to come). 

THE FINE DETAILS 

Casa Mita is available through SJ Villas and starts from $5,500 – $22,000 per day depending on the season. Visit sjvillas.co.uk to enquire about winter availability.