La Valise Tulum Review: A Beachside Retreat Rooted In Mexican Culture
A property full of artisanal charm that doesn’t forget the details, this boutique resort offers travellers a relaxing stay like no other
Tulum is the ultimate getaway, adored for its serenity, pristine white-sand beaches, gourmet food, and that je ne sais quoi magic in the air. The city’s inspiring Mayan ruins that overlook the clear waters of the turquoise Caribbean have been attracting travellers to this former fishing village for decades. Cultural authenticity, spiritual connection and immersion with nature continue to shine in this jewel of the Mexican Riviera. Where better to take it all in, then, than the Robinson Crusoe-meets-Crafted Museum-curated, La Valise Tulum?
Cradled between lush jungle and a pearl-white beach, La Valise boasts a luxurious laidback barefoot vibe. And while its sleepy beach ambiance and quiet relaxation are endearing, it’s the dedication to the details from the moment you cross the threshold and for the entirety of your stay that makes this vacation spot extra special. Stepping foot inside the beachfront living room feels like being reacquainted with a cultured old friend who has taken to the gypset way of life. A rustic Mexican aesthetic shines through the throne like bamboo chairs, wicker-nest chandeliers and spattering of Diego Rivera art books. Owner Yves Naman was adamant that spaces which capture the Mexican spirit are designed to foster a connection between guests and the beauty of their natural surroundings. Hence, the intimate 11-room hotel was built using natural and locally sourced materials, featuring re-imagined palapa thatched roofs, customised furniture crafted by local artisans and chukum – a stucco made from Mayan rubber tress – for flooring and walls. Every inch of La Valise elevates local craftsmanship with its seasoned eye, giving it a true sense of belonging.
Rooms are designed to be thrown open to the early morning sun and remain so for the late-night starry sky. They melt into their surroundings thanks to cream walls and the bleached-wood furniture paying homage to the surrounding forest. Warmth and whimsy comes in the shape of woven reed lamps and tropical wood wall adornments – from a cockatoo perched on a lamp to a jaguar-shaped seat – which look more like sculptures than accents.
In gratitude and respect to their bio-diverse environment, sustainability is at the forefront of the La Valise experience. Single-use plastic is prohibited, waste is composted, recycling is encouraged and produce for meals is locally sourced. Toiletries and repellent are ecologically friendly, while sunscreen is reef friendly. As a show of commitment to their environmentally conscious stance, the resort asks its guests to sign the Tulum Pledge, a promise to leave Tulum even better than they found it.
Hammocks swing in the sea breeze, daybeds stud the private beach and a smart pool begs for a lazy dip. Everything here is designed to ease you into the slow pace of Tulum life. Facials, holistic spa treatments and massages by the in-house therapist can even be arranged in the privacy of your room.
Tulum is the kind of place where you can rise with the sun, have your choice of yoga by the sea, bike to the ruins, or float in the ocean all day before heading off to a sound healing or cacao ceremony. Ending the day with gypsy jazz mocktails, or coconuts, or both, before a candlelight jungle dinner scented with copal. The resort can custom design an array of adventures ranging from a beautifying bee venom treatment, to akashic records reading, or visiting a jaguar and panther rehabilitation centre, amongst others.
Breakfast, which can be served in-room, is a lavish affair that could placate a Mayan god. Platters bursting with tropical fruits, homemade jams, yoghurts and granola are just the starters. For dinner, head over to Nü which represents the culinary adventure of seven friends and chefs from Mexico City to Tulum. Inspired by their jungle and ocean surroundings, the team elevates local and sustainable ingredients to craft modern Mexican cuisine. Alternatively, if you are in the mood for sharing head to ITZIK. Surrounded by woven palm fronds, ITZIK exudes a fun bohemian decor accompanied by groovy jungle beats and live music sets. Bold Middle Eastern flavours are harmoniously blended with sustainable ingredients from the Mayan Jungle and the Caribbean Sea, resulting in delectable meals which are designed for sharing.
La Valise perfectly preserves the homely magic of a beachfront bungalow but complements it with sophistication, art and charm. The ideal oasis for experiencing mystical Tulum.
For more information, visit lavalisetulum.com