In Quintana Roo’s vibrant jungle on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, the heavenly hideaway Coqui Coqui Residence & Spa Cobá Papolchac is nestled on the banks of a tranquil lagoon, offering everything you desire for a rejuvenating and recharging stay: nourishing and delectable foods, stunning rooms, tranquil lounge areas, and an excellent spa. If you’re seeking a vacation where you can keep your phone on flight mode, finally read that book, and embrace a sleep-relax-eat-repeat lifestyle, this enchanting Mexican sanctuary should definitely be on your radar for an upcoming trip.

Coqui Coqui was founded by Argentine Nicolás Malleville in 2003 when he opened the first Perfumeria. Over 20 years later, their incredible scents remain one of the pillars of the Coqui Coqui Lifestyle Group. Today, the brand also offers carefully selected teas and coffee, homemade artisan chocolates, curated spices, unique bedding, tableware, and much more. Moreover, the Coqui Coqui family has expanded in recent years, adding several stunning hotels in Mexico and one in Bora Bora. With a background in botany, a fascination with history, and a deep interest in travel, Malleville has created not just an exclusive brand but an incredibly inspiring lifestyle.

Inspired by nearby ruins and one of the most important archaeological sites associated with ancient Mayan civilizations, Coqui Coqui Residence & Spa Cobá Papolchac is among the four exclusive hotels in Mexico. This one-of-a-kind oasis emerges from the jungle with its two limestone towers linked by a charming wooden bridge. It features outdoor dipping pools, lounge areas, a restaurant, a gift shop, a perfumeria, and only a few rooms. The two Palapa Suites, situated atop the towers, offer breathtaking views of the nearby ruins. Below, the Laguna Suites overlook the lush freshwater lagoon, while the Jungle Villa is a luxurious two-floor suite featuring a spa-style outdoor shower, double bathtubs, one King-sized bed, two single beds, and a private terrace. The interior showcases Coqui Coqui’s signature style, with safari-inspired handmade furniture in earthy tones, stone bathtubs, hand-crafted hammocks, botanical drawings, archaeological photographs, curated coffee table books, incense with their famous scents, and other carefully selected details that capture the rugged elegance of the classic 1920s explorer’s era. Each room is equipped with the hotel’s signature perfume toiletries, featuring the delightful “Coco” scent. Use the complimentary bath oil to fill the bathtub for a tranquil evening before bed, or enjoy a cup of tea on your private terrace—the entire residence offers numerous ways and spots to unwind.

The limited number of rooms, secluded location, and impeccable, attentive service (with staff who address you by name) create a serene and peaceful ambiance where it almost feels like you have the entire place to yourself. The music of the vibrant nature, the balmy breeze from the lagoon, and the ancient history of the place add a mystical and exciting charm that certainly contributes to its unique and special atmosphere. Once you’ve checked in, you’ll never want to leave—especially after experiencing the delectable food. Mouthwatering and wholesome dishes such as Coconut Shrimp with Mango and Cardamom Dressing, traditional tacos with guacamole and crudités, seasonal fish, creative salads, and homemade ice cream with caramelized seeds grace the extensive menu, making it difficult to choose what to indulge in. The complimentary breakfast delights with freshly baked bread, homemade pineapple jam, coffee or tea, and yogurt with homemade granola are equally delicious. Try their banana smoothie for a sweet start to your day, and don’t miss the cardamom dark chocolate with lemongrass tea as an afternoon pick-me-up while taking a break from reading in the shade.

A visit (or five) to their magnificent gift shop is a must, where you can indulge in everything from their own teas and spices to their unique scents, bags, and hammocks, as well as their signature palm tree-embellished tableware. It’s nearly impossible to leave empty-handed, so be sure to set aside both time and pesos for a stop here. The different perfume lines and scents are available in the form of bath oils, scented candles, perfumes, and more, and can also be experienced in their lovely spa, where they are used in treatments. The massages are incredibly relaxing (we particularly love the one with healing stones to release negative energy), and another delightful option is the “Mayan Elements” facial, featuring honey, avocado, and oatmeal as primary ingredients. Additionally, the spa menu offers exfoliations, reflexology, botanical baths, body scrubs and wraps, as well as rituals.

Whether you plan a week-long stay or a short getaway while visiting other beloved destinations like Tulum on the peninsula, an escape to Coqui Coqui in Cobá is a must if you seek a serene place for total relaxation and body, mind, and soul nourishment. Let the historical ruins and vibrant nature transport you to another time and place during your stay, and forget about the “real world” for a while. Coqui Coqui Residence & Spa in Cobá invites you to explore, find presence, mindfulness, and moments for reflection while indulging every sense.

Book your stay, explore the webshop, and learn more about the brand on: coquicoqui.com

words by Matilde Wergeland