In 1989 a large extended family of LA-based artists, architects and writers bought 12 acres of land on the exquisite wild East Cape of Baja California Sur, where whales pass by and cacti bristle from the brush. They lived in tents on the endless empty beach, while painstakingly crafting Italianate dwellings around the trees and plants, creating a lush paradise from the desert. Mexican artisans handmade unique furniture, ironwork and carved mouldings for tiles and balustrades. The result is a loving and witty ensemble of vintage pieces, folk art, paintings for sale, fireplaces, rattan chairs, family collectibles and mementos. Immaculately tended tiered gardens, tropical plantings, terraces and palms, playful sculptures, paved walkways, neo-classical fountains, sit-outs, palapas and alcoves all lead to a lavish swimming pool, and on down to a pristine private beach on the turquoise Sea of Cortez.
In the mid-Noughties they opened up the beautifully furnished suites and the impossibly romantic beach cottage to paying guests, converting the ping pong room to a dining palapa and serving superior Mexican influenced fare. We are forever grateful that they did.
Highs
- The superbly remote setting is in a tropical oasis that cascades down the hillside to the sea, far from the hustle and bustle of Cabo
- It's an endearingly hospitable set-up: the family, who still live on the premises, welcome you warmly into their haven, but give plenty of privacy
- There's a big swimming pool with extensive terraces and a pool house
- Genuine eco-principles were applied in the construction and continue to underpin the operation
- It's ideal for those who seek quiet, relaxed adventure in beautiful, arid surroundings, whether honeymooners, a family or small group of friends
Lows
- It's not for those wanting nightlife, shopping and golf courses - who should stick to Los Cabos
- This isn't a full service establishment where staff wait on you hand and foot; you're left to your own devices, though friendly advice is always on hand
- The beach immediately below Villa del Faro is rocky and can be rough, but fine for strong swimmers
- The rooms are supremely comfortable, but don't expect any of the latest electronic gadgets: you're "exquisitely off the grid" here
- It's seriously off the beaten track: access is via a long bumpy dirt road, so you'll need a car for activities and alternative lunch/dinner venues (of which there are few)
Best time to go
Most visitors come to Baja California Sur from December to around Easter, before the temperatures and humidity start to rise. It's also when the whale-watching is at its best, and the seas are calm and warm. Villa del Faro is closed from August until mid-October, which is the sticky hurricane season when the locals batten down the hatches and close up shop.
Our top tips
Bring binoculars for birding and whale watching, and sun protection apparel (the sun can be very fierce here). Your swimming togs are a must, with both the pool and the sea to splash in.
Location
Villa del Faro is on the unspoiled East Cape of Baja California Sur, on the Sea of Cortez. It's very much off the beaten track, and the coast road is unsealed.
By Air:
Los Cabos International Airport is about an hour's drive away (41km). It has direct flights from Los Angeles (a flight time of 2 hours) and a number of major cities in Mexico. Click on the links below for more information about airlines serving Los Cabos.
By Car:
You could get to Villa del Faro by taxi, and Villa del Faro can arrange a transfer, but for greater flexibility and the ability to explore the coast, we recommend hiring a car. You don't need a 4WD as the dirt road is pretty good, but you may want one for peace of mind - see our car rental recommendations. Villa del Faro is a gated property and there is ample space for parking.
Detailed directions will be provided when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Mexico and getting around
Airports:
- Los Cabos International Airport 41.0 km SJD
Other:
- Beach 0.1 km
- Shops 17.0 km
- Restaurant 3.0 km