Live Aqua San Miguel de Allende Urban Resort

This resort at the edge of town is within walking distance of the main square in San Miguel, but just removed enough—situated at the foot of the Obraje Dam—to provide a larger footprint and more amenities than many of the smaller, casa hotels based within the heart of San Miguel de Allende.

• The traditional Temazcal experience at Feel Urban Spa

• The multitude of on-property dining options, ranging from Mexican to Asian and casual pub food

• The cozy Casa Dragones Cigar Bar with views over the pool and neighboring dam

The imposing facade of Live Aqua is a far cry from many of the more discreet hotels and restaurant combinations in San Miguel de Allende. The striking, medusa-like Cabeza Vainilla sculpture by Javier Marín sits at the base of a grand staircase that guides guests up through a large, arched double doorway and into an open-air reception.

The sculpture is a bold departure from the traditional hotels in town, and one of many art pieces on property. Live Aqua’s design takes cues from the city’s quaint colonial charm and its revolutionary spirit, with an eye towards modern luxury. The hotel balances past and present beautifully, and even its most contemporary spaces are peppered with traditional Mexican style and vintage pieces.

Guest rooms feel fresh—with all the modern amenities—yet nostalgic. The resort (and it is certainly a resort – sprawling by design) was a new build when it opened in 2018, and it is the largest option in town with 150 guest rooms and suites, five bars and eateries and over 16,000 square feet of conference and event spaces (including a ballroom for approximately 800 guests, open terrace for up to 500 guests and a garden for around 600).

For onsite dining, guests can choose from Mexican and international cuisine at Zibu Allende, enjoy Asian fare at Spice Market or indulge in the breakfast buffet and weekend brunch at Patio Del Árbol. Plus, guests can dine casually while enjoying craft cocktails at Bar Casa Dragones (for exceptional tequila) or Yintony De Tanqueray (a new concept celebrating gin). A smaller menu of light bites and drinks is available al fresco at the Pool Bar.

If tired from a day of excursions or exploring town—most of the sites are within walking distance of the central plaza at Calzada de la Presa—guests can unwind with an extensive treatment menu at Feel Urban Spa, join fitness classes (or workout solo) at the gym and of course, relax poolside.

Travelers who are less focused on the intimacy and soulfulness of a hotel and appreciate a spacious, amenity-laden homebase. Families in search of a Kids Club will be happy here.