Hot Spot: Mexico’s One & Only Pamilla Hotel and Spa
The secluded beach at One & Only Palmilla (Photo Instagram)
This summer, my husband and I were looking to book a week-long trip — just us, no family, no friends — to be able to reconnect and spend some time together with no distractions. Long story short, through some unforeseen, but ultimately fortuitous circumstances we booked a stay at the One & Only Palmilla in Los Cabos, Mexico. The hubs, being an avid surfer and myself being an avid relaxer, it appeared to cater to the best of both our worlds (this world also included a stunning 18-hole Jack Nicklaus designed golf course that took us from the mountains to the ocean and back over 3.5 hours). The ease of getting to Cabo from any major city, was also a perk — a five-hour flight and short drive from the airport and we were in paradise.
Hurricane Odile decimated much of the Cabo San Lucas coastline in September 2014, and had devastating effects on the hotels in the area, which is why the One & Only spent almost 10 months closed to the public in order to rebuild. And rebuild it they did, spectacularly. Arriving at the gorgeous open-air reception area and handed a popsicle made from local produce, I quickly understood the meaning behind “One & Only.” Part of the reconstruction was a massive 22,000 square foot spa and fitness center, with a focus on wellness. Guests have access to top of the line equipment, fitness classes, personal training, multiple yoga spaces both indoor, outdoor, and beach front, a one of a kind mani/pedi space, a full service dry bar, and a men’s barbershop. The sprawling spa also had private villas for treatments, luxe locker rooms, and relaxation pools stocked with plush towels, and most importantly had a quiet atmosphere and ocean views. My husband and I had a couples massage treatment in a private suite that was fit for stars (and I later found out there actually were a couple stars staying at the resort).
One of the private spa villas (Photo Instagram)
The Spa was certainly a highlight of our trip to O&O. While two excellent masseuses gave us head-to-toe 90-minute massages using various techniques, and aromatherapy oils, it was impossible not to shed all stress for an overwhelmingly blissful state, with the beautiful turquoise Sea of Cortez always near your line of sight. Food at the resort was also exceptional. Fresh fare and yummy drinks were always easily accessible at any time of day, from casual family dining to formal, romantic meals. Famed chef Jean Gorges just opened SEARED, a steakhouse on the property serving up scrumptious and rich fare, while simultaneously creating a local hot spot for the trendy crowd to wine and dine.
The impeccable service and attention at the resort began the moment we arrived and lasted until departure. Whether hanging in a private beachside cabana, sitting in the uber comfortable poolside lounge chairs (complete with head pillows, leg rests, sunscreen and rose-infused misting spray), or just chilling in my room, someone was readily available to meet my every need. If you or your family just needs to get away, this is certainly the spot. Beware: it will not come cheaply, but paradise is worth the splurge.
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