As I stepped foot in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, I was a stressed, anxious, and unhappy soul. But little did I know that my week-long trip to the region known as Costalegre would change everything.
Costalegre, or “coast of joy,” is a 200-mile stretch of Pacific coastline between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo. It’s a region of extremes – small seaside towns sit alongside multimillion-dollar resorts. For years, it’s been a quiet retreat enticing the elite, where everyone from Mick Jagger to Bill Gates has vacationed.
I spent my week driving dirt roads, sipping margaritas with strangers, and resort-hopping across Costalegre. What I discovered was an equation of simplicity, seclusion, and splendor that left me captivated by this remote region that prioritizes nature and weaves luxury into every aspect of the stay.
From the moment I arrived at my first resort in Careyes, a colorful neighborhood with villas in cobalt blues, highlighter yellows, and dusty pinks, I knew I was in for a treat. The property’s 35,000 acres are home to 46 multimillion-dollar villas, 40 casitas, 55 suites, and three bungalows.
Careyes is known for its annual Lunar New Year party and has been a popular spot for celebrities like Tom Ford, Naomi Campbell, and Uma Thurman. But it’s not just the architecture and color palette that leave an impression – it’s the visitors who put it on the map.
As I wandered through the property, I met Viviana Dean, a resident of Careyes who lives full-time in the community. She told me about the seclusion and tranquility of the area, saying, “I don’t think there are too many places in the world where you can walk three kilometers down the coast and there’s no one there.”
The focus on nature is what sets Costalegre apart from other luxury destinations. Multiple times throughout my trip, I found myself alone on a beach in complete solitude – something that feels impossible to discover in today’s world.
But it’s not just about the seclusion; it’s also about the luxury experience. Each resort I visited offered high-end amenities and services, including private infinity pools, gourmet meals prepared by award-winning chefs, and personalized concierge services.
One of the resorts I stayed at was Las Alamandas, a 2,000-acre property that offers horseback riding, picnicking during sunset, and more. The focus is on the outdoors, and the activities are designed to allow guests to connect with nature in a peaceful and serene environment.
As I reflected on my trip, I realized that Costalegre is not just a destination – it’s an experience. It’s about immersing oneself in the beauty of nature while indulging in luxury and comfort. And as I left Mexico, I felt happy, relaxed, and rejuvenated, with memories that will stay with me forever.
A Different Kind of Luxury
Costalegre is not like other luxury destinations. There are no crowds, no noise, and no distractions. Instead, there’s peace, tranquility, and a deep connection to nature.
The resorts I visited were designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, with architecture that reflects the local culture and style. The focus is on creating an immersive experience that allows guests to connect with the natural environment.
But it’s not just about the physical surroundings – it’s also about the people who call Costalegre home. From the owners of the resorts to the local residents, everyone I met was warm, welcoming, and passionate about preserving the area’s natural beauty.
As I looked out at the stunning coastline, I realized that Costalegre is a rare gem in today’s world – a place where luxury and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience. And as I left Mexico, I knew that I would never forget my week-long journey to this hidden paradise.
Source: Business Insider
