Boca de Agua, Bacalar, Mexico: A new story unfolds
Imagine a place where the very essence of nature dances in harmony with the pursuit of serenity and well-being. This enchanting tale unfolds on the Yucatán Peninsula, where lush jungles and azure waters converge in a ballet of life and tranquility. Here, amid the lush beauty, Boca de Agua emerges, a symphony of eco-preservation and hospitality that’s been years in the making.
Renowned architecture meets sustainability
Designed by visionary architect Frida Escobedo, renowned for her transformative work at the MET in New York, this ethereal project isn’t just a hotel – it’s a testament to a profound desire. A desire to breathe new life into the environment, the community and the culture, all while offering guests an experience that’s equally restorative and unique. It’s a haven designed by one of the world’s great architects. In this extraordinary narrative, treehouses become the protagonists, rising on pillars to gracefully avoid the Earth’s touch, minimising their footprint on the land.
These exquisite spaces beckon to guests to embrace the untamed jungle that surrounds them, allowing the flora and fauna to weave their tales into the visitor’s own. With 26 accommodation units adorned in warm wood, bathed in natural light and featuring with soft, earthy tones, Boca de Agua seamlessly integrates with the enchanting heart of Bacalar. Its very structure, designed to evolve gracefully over time, becomes an integral part of the landscape’s ongoing story. Raised off the ground on pillars, the construction leaves over 90% of the land untouched, honouring its commitment to nature. The Chicozapote wood used in the project comes from a sustainable source, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, thereby ensuring the preservation of the local ecosystem. And with a wastewater treatment plant, every drop finds purpose without harming the lagoon.
Inspiration all around
The embodiment of harmonious regeneration, this project isn’t just about providing a luxurious escape; it’s a commitment to creating a ripple of positive change. Social inclusion, local economic prosperity and the preservation of nature blend with environmental responsibility. Boca de Agua isn’t merely a place to stay; it’s an immersive experience designed to inspire and nurture. In the shared spaces, echoes of the local culture reverberate, each area reflecting the soul of the Yucatán region with stone temples and wooden houses.
Every piece of furniture, designed by local artisans and an in-house team, tells a tale of renewal, forged from materials discarded from nearby industrial processes. Artistry is woven into every nook and cranny, with exclusive creations from Mexican and local brands. Boca de Agua also opens its arms to the community, partnering with NGOs, local universities and government organisations. This sanctuary is now home to a rehabilitated mangrove ecosystem, the first of its kind in Bacalar, thanks to collaboration with the nonprofit organisation Mono Araña, which is devoted to the protection of spider monkeys and their habitat.
Mindfulness at its best
But the story doesn’t end with the design. It’s an invitation to rediscover your connection to the Earth. Scientifically backed therapeutic programmes entwine guests with the natural world, guiding them to reveal the Earth’s healing and rejuvenating secrets. It’s a dopamine reset, a quest for healthier and more sustainable sources of contentment, found in the blissful detachment that Boca de Agua provides. Ancient rituals, harmonised with modern scientific wisdom, enhance the narrative of Boca de Agua’s guests.
And as the tale unfurls, it’s important to remember that it’s not just about the sumptuous accommodation, the immersive experiences or the delectable cuisine. It’s about the heart of Bacalar, the Yucatán and the Earth itself. It’s about creating a story where conservation and luxury coexist in perfect harmony.
In November, the pages of Boca de Agua will turn and a new story will begin. Will you be a part of it?
