This sanctuary began as a personal gesture of love. Hollywood icon Richard Burton gifted the property to his last wife, Susan Hunt, as a Valentine’s present. Years later, American businesswoman Janice Chatterton bought it and turned it into a deeply personal residence. Slowly, she expanded it by purchasing surrounding villas, eventually transforming it into a 12-suite boutique hotel. Today, the property is still family-run by her daughter and grandchildren, preserving the romantic spirit that built it.

Every inch of Hacienda San Angel tells a story through its design. The hotel embraces classic Mexican architecture arched doorways, wrought iron balconies, and lush courtyards while blending in European touches like crystal chandeliers, antique furniture, and richly textured fabrics. Each suite is uniquely styled, creating the feeling of staying in a small museum or private palace where no two corners look the same.

With only 14 suites and three serene pools spread across green courtyards, guests are treated to the kind of personal attention that big hotels can’t match. There’s a quiet rhythm to the place slow breakfasts, hidden garden paths, and golden hour cocktails on the rooftop. It’s the kind of place where privacy is respected, yet hospitality feels like a warm embrace.

Floating above the rooftops, the hotel’s restaurant offers breathtaking views of Banderas Bay alongside elevated Mexican cuisine. Think carefully plated dishes, fresh local ingredients, and a candlelit setting that turns every dinner into a moment. Whether it’s an anniversary dinner or a quiet night out, the restaurant manages to strike the balance between luxury and soul.

Even after Janice Chatterton’s passing, the family has kept her vision alive. With a hands-on presence and attention to detail, they continue to run the hotel with warmth and intention. Guests often describe their stay as feeling more like visiting a friend’s cherished home than booking into a hotel. That’s the magic that sets Hacienda San Angel apart it doesn’t just host travelers, it welcomes them into its story.