Luxury Hotel In Tulum Was Once The Property of Pablo Escobar

A retreat, whether it’s a hotel, a private residence or any other structure for that matter, needs a great location if it’s to be great and to draw people to it. In addition to that, it also helps a lot to have an interesting history. This recent addition to Design Hotels has it all. It’s located on the beautiful beaches of Tulum, Casa Malca and, before it became a hotel, it was a property owned by the famous Pablo Escobar.

Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
The estate, once owned by Pablo Escobar, is surrounded by tropical vegetation and lush greenery
Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
The entrance to the main mansion is disguised as a large wall of tree bark

The estate was abandoned after Pablo Escobar’s death in 1993. It was later returned to its original owner in 2003 and then, in 2012, it was discovered by its current owner who is a prominent art dealer. A plan was created that was meant to transform the estate into a luxury hotel. In 2015 the initial part of the transformation was complete and the five-star hotel opened. At that moment it only offered nine bedrooms.

Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
Inside, the lobby greets the guests with carefully selected artwork
Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
Contemporary paintings and sculptures are displayed along with designer furniture

In time, the hotel grew. A series of two-storey structures were built along the beach, raising the total number of suites to 35, with plans to add even more. These structures have only one guest suite per floor.

Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
The white walls and concrete flooring establish a neutral backdrop against which the artwork can shine
Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
Large windows and glass walls connect the interior spaces to the sandy beach and the ocean views

The main entrance into the primary building is pretty impressive. It features two very large doors that, when closed, look like a wall covered in tree bark. Inside, the decor is interesting in the sense that the walls are white and the floor is covered in polished concrete and the neutral decor is decorated with contemporary paintings, sculptures and designer furniture. The artwork is frequently rotated across the hotel to offer guests the opportunity to enjoy new pieces.

Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
Color is added to the spaces by certain furniture pieces and accessories such as long curtains

 

Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
A bar is placed on the ground floor, highlighted by graphical black and white wallpaper

Inside the main building on the ground floor there’s a bar. This area has walls covered with graphical black and white wallpaper which stands out on its own without the need for artwork or decorations. The bar counter, the stools and everything else is kept simple.

Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
A set of smaller structured were added along the beach, increasing the number of suites
Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
The rooms are simple but also sophisticated, featuring a blend of old and new

The proximity of the property to the beach and the ocean allowed the creation of a series of beautiful lounge spaces, some with pergola roofs, others nestled under the trees. Hammocks and swings let the guests relax and enjoy the views and the tranquil ambiance. A swimming pool is also present and a hidden underground steam room is directly connected to it.

Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
Outdoors, guests can relax on decks, terraces, on the beach or use the numerous hammocks and swings
Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
Pure and natural materials were preferred during the transformation, giving the hotel a welcoming look
Luxury hotel in Tulum surrounded by lush tropical views
The underground steam room is an unexpected element and a space that looks quite magical