Time and Place travels: A sunny getaway in Mexican style
Magnificent Colonial architecture views from Alma del Sol’s rooftop terrace.
The turn of cooler weather has my mind on escapes to my favorite travel spots in Central Mexico, where Fall and Winter bring warm, sunny days. Mexico’s vibrant colonial towns welcome travelers with hospitality, great food, and beautiful artisan crafts.
The perfect place to relish in this delight is Alma del Sol, a Mexican colonial house in the heart of the lively city of Guanajuato, run by the gracious proprietor Hugo Anaya. The bed and breakfast’s five suites are situated on multiple levels that open to a traditional courtyard, surrounded by inner balconies furnished in authentic Mexican style. Each room is individually decorated with Mexican woven tapestries, antique cupboards, painted ceramic sinks, and carved doors that open to wrought iron balconies.
The best part of the house is the rooftop terrace with magnificent views of 17th Century Colonial architecture of the Templo de la Compañia. An inviting, sunny seating area among flowering plants in rustic terracotta pots is the ideal spot to enjoy the vista of the fantastic church. Rightly so, as the bed and breakfast’s name translates from Spanish to “soul of the sun.”
Off the terrace is the remarkably pretty glass-enclosed dining room, where Hugo presides daily over a delicious traditional Mexican breakfast. Fresh delicacies like tostadas and empanadas paired with avocados, freshly squeezed juices, and Mexican pan are enjoyed over Hugo’s welcoming hospitality and jovial conversation.
Although Guanajuato has UNESCO World Heritage Site status, it’s a highly lived-in city populated by workers and students. Amid its celebrated Baroque and Churrigueresque architecture, the city’s brightly colored houses and shady town squares are less oriented toward tourism than to everyday life, making Guanajuato a great location to discover authentic, unpretentious Mexican culture.
Join me for a tour.
Flowering plants in rustic terracotta pots on Alma del Sol’s rooftop terrace.
A climb upstairs leads to the house’s terrace with a tower view.
Hugo, the bed and breakfast’s jovial proprietor, hosts a welcoming and delicious Mexican breakfast in an unimaginably pretty room.
The inner courtyards of the house are decorated with traditional Mexican artworks.
The Suzani room has souring ceilings and woven Mexican textiles covering white stucco walls.
The room’s bath features the prettiest Mexican painted ceramic sink.
Guanajuato’s Colonial streets are a joy to wander.
Manicured trees create shady squares, perfect for people watching.
Guanajuato’s high culture pride of the the Teatro Juarez.
Traditional Mexican tile finds a place in even unlikely spots.
Guanajuato is a town of quotidian life, making it a delightful place to get to know authentic Mexico.
The funicular ride up to the town’s hills is the highlight of a visit to Guanajuato.
The ride or steep walk is rewarded with stunning views of the city.
Inspiration from the authentic style of Mexico
We’re loving these home decor pieces hand crafted by Mexican artisans. Click through the links to browse these artisanal products online.
Want to add authentic global decor to your home?
Time & Place Interiors specializes in bringing handmade artisan decor to your living space. Founder Ksenya Malina brings a knowledge and appreciation for global craftsmanship to make your space uniquely special. Use the link below to schedule a free 20-minute information call with Ksenya to discuss how to translate your passions into a beautiful interior:
