In the late 1980s British-French billionaire Sir James Goldsmith developed a sprawling 25,000-acre swath of land on the Pacific coast of Mexico for his private estate, and as a dedicated conservationist, he preserved much of the natural landscape as a wildlife sanctuary. To outfit the stunning residence, Goldsmith employed the talents of designer extraordinaire Robert Couturier. In 2009 the property was converted to a 12-suite boutique hotel, and since then, quite an elite set of vacationers has stayed at the Pacific paradise—think Mick Jagger, Madonna, and Bill Gates, to name a few.
The most expensive suite, the Cuixmala Suite, was the private quarters of Goldsmith before the property's conversion, so, unsurprisingly, it is by far the most luxurious accommodation today. On one side it opens to a lush, flower-filled courtyard, and on the other, to a wide terrace and private pool. Both offer the ultimate in solitude and relaxation.
Inside the sprawling lodging, 20-foot ceilings provide plenty of airy space, while a sitting nook with a fireplace cuts the chill when night falls over the Pacific. The minimal furnishings don't distract from the large, arched windows that showcase stellar views of the property's private two-mile beach. But perhaps the best view comes via the whitewashed bath, where an oversize soaking tub fronts large windows opening up to fresh sea air. From $4,500/night; cuixmala.com
