Hotel Hacienda Taboada

This hotel is widely celebrated for its thermal pools, which are consistently described as clean, warm, and perfect for relaxation, making them a signature feature. It offers a tranquil and isolated escape, ideal for families seeking a peaceful getaway or couples looking to disconnect from daily life. Guests frequently commend the beautiful gardens and the generally attentive staff. The hotel's colonial style and serene ambiance contribute to a memorable stay for those prioritizing rest and rejuvenation. To enhance your visit, it is advisable to confirm the best access route with the hotel directly, as online maps can be misleading, and be prepared for limited cell phone connectivity, embracing the opportunity for a true digital detox.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's thermal pools are a major draw, consistently praised for their cleanliness, ideal temperature, and extended hours, allowing guests to enjoy them late into the evening. The property boasts expansive and well-maintained gardens, providing a beautiful and serene environment for relaxation. While Wi-Fi is available, guests frequently note its instability and the general lack of cell phone signal, which can be seen as either a drawback or an opportunity for a digital detox. Recreational facilities include tennis courts and a playground, though some guests have observed that these areas show signs of disrepair, such as weeds on the courts or missing swings. A spa is also available, and a bar offers refreshments, though service at the bar can sometimes be inconsistent.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay. Many describe the accommodations as spacious and cozy, often featuring a rustic style that complements the hotel's ambiance. The beds are frequently mentioned as comfortable, though some guests have found them to be hard or the pillows uncomfortable. Standard room amenities often include a terrace, a small tub, a dressing room, and a safe. However, some reviews indicate that rooms can appear old or dark, with occasional signs of poor maintenance, such as spiderwebs or rusty bins. A recurring issue for some guests is the lack of consistent hot water in the showers, which can take a long time to heat up or remain lukewarm.

Dining & Food Quality
Breakfast at the hotel consistently receives high praise, described as delicious, varied, and abundant, often included in the stay. The restaurant generally offers good food quality, with many guests enjoying the delicious meals and finding the prices acceptable. However, feedback on dining is mixed. Some guests have expressed disappointment, finding the food insipid, portions small, or the overall quality decreasing over time. Specific complaints include raw or burnt dishes, unsatisfactory guacamole, and a lack of variety or natural water/fruit for juices. While the service can sometimes be slow, particularly during peak times, the hotel's culinary offerings are a significant part of the guest experience, with many highlighting the positive aspects of their meals.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's remote and isolated location is a defining characteristic, offering a profound sense of tranquility and an ideal environment for disconnecting from urban life. While this seclusion is highly valued by many, accessibility presents a notable challenge. The access road is frequently described as unpaved, cobblestone, or dirt, making the journey to the hotel difficult, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or relying solely on GPS, which can lead to incorrect routes. Guests also report a lack of clear signage guiding them to the property. Furthermore, the hotel's distance from the city means that securing taxis for transport can be difficult and expensive, and there is a general absence of cell phone signal, reinforcing the hotel's appeal as a secluded retreat.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives high commendation for their attentiveness, helpfulness, and friendly demeanor, significantly contributing to a positive guest experience. Many reviews highlight the excellent service provided, noting that staff members are quick to address requests and ensure guest comfort. The check-in process is often described as efficient and welcoming. However, some guests have reported mixed experiences, mentioning instances of slow service in the restaurant or bar areas, or perceiving some staff as tired or demotivated. Despite these isolated comments, the overall sentiment indicates that the service is good and accommodating, with staff striving to provide a pleasant and well-cared-for stay for their guests.

Additional Information
A notable and frequently mentioned aspect of the hotel is the presence of numerous cats on the property. While some guests find them charming, others are bothered by the smell of cat urine in certain garden areas or even feces. Guests also report issues with other visitors playing loud music by the pool or smoking in non-designated areas, despite hotel regulations, which can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere. The Wi-Fi signal is often described as unstable, and cell phone reception is generally poor, making the hotel an ideal choice for those seeking a complete digital detox. Some recreational facilities, such as the tennis courts and playgrounds, are noted to be in need of maintenance or show signs of wear.