La Casa Rodavento

For a country as large and diverse as Mexico to concentrate its travel infrastructure in just a few destinations feels like a major missed opportunity. But the flip side of that is that there are some magical places that haven’t yet been given the full Cancún or Los Cabos treatment. Valle de Bravo, on the shores of Lake Avándaro, two hours’ drive from Mexico City, is one of these places — though it’s well known to domestic travelers, international visitors are only beginning to catch on. La Casa Rodavento will get you quickly up to speed on this charming town.

With just seven suites, three in the historic structure and four in a modern addition, it goes out of its way to live up to the “casa” part of its name. Some come with outdoor showers, or private terraces with views of the town, and all come with modern furnishings and high-end comforts like Gramophone entertainment systems. The style is equal parts historical homage and modern luxury boutique — come to think of it, that’s not just the look, but the whole concept, right down to Nuestro, the restaurant, where chef Diego Isunza Kahlo serves contemporary interpretations of local culinary classics.