Chef Ana’s Mountain Refuge was featured in Season 1 of Netflix’s “The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals,” as one of the more unique options available today. Located 90 minutes south of Mexico City in the mountains of Tepoztlán, the Mountain Refuge was built as a place to stay while learning all about local culinary traditions under award-winning Chef Ana Garcias’ direction.
Ana is also the owner of La Villa Bonita, hosting guests for either nightly or one-week stays in her picturesque mountain home, with guests enjoying dinner in the open-air kitchen on their first night, served by the chef herself and her team. The rest of the week, guests join her in the kitchen to learn how to prepare traditional family recipes. There are also food tours that take in the fabulous vibe of the small nearby town of Tepoztlàn. The Tepozteco pyramid is within walking distance for those who want to explore the area’s rich history too.
There are yoga classes available and a pool carved out of the volcanic rock for lounging around and enjoying refreshing swims.
The property also includes a citrus orchard, vegetable garden, and hens to provide fresh eggs for breakfast, included in the rates. All meals are fantastic as one would expect. Chef Ana and La Villa Bonita have been featured in many publications and other television shows, including the Food Network, ABC, and PBS as well as Bon Appetit, Cooking Light, and Vogue magazines.
The individual guest rooms include private bathrooms as well as an outdoor space immediately in front of each room on the patio for exclusive use. Guests can also enjoy exploring the gardens and common areas. The kitchen can be used by reserving a time to cook. Afterward, you can dine on the elevated terrace just above or outdoors near your room. Glasses, plates, and silverware are all available for guest use along with cooking utensils.
The special Chef’s Table Dinners, cooking classes, and catering aren’t included in the nightly rates.
Guests rave about the magical village the property is located in, the food, the host, and more, like Karen from Chicago who wrote, “Our room was sparkling clean and comfortable with surprisingly thoughtful touches (like a magnifying makeup mirror and extra towels for the pool). Breakfast was delicious & healthy, and the communal table gave us the chance to interact with other guests and/or to ask Ana questions about the area. The views from the property were spectacular, and the grounds were lush with vegetation. The location was perfect…far enough away from the noises of downtown to be restful, yet close enough to walk to the market, spas, or the Tepozteco trailhead. Ana is a delightful host, and I’m sure we will look for a chance to stay with her again!”
Chef Ana’s Mountain Refuge
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Tepoztlán, Mexico