Rosewood Mandarina Opens on the Shores of Mexico's Riviera Nayarit

Hospitality Net

20-05-2025

Marking the beginning of a new era of luxury in Mexico, the highly anticipated Rosewood Mandarina welcomes guests to enjoy the captivating energy and cultural reverence of the Pacific coast. Nearly a decade in the making, this all-suite sanctuary was conceived to express an ancient harmony with the natural world and foster meaningful exploration - not only of the destination and the community that has cared for it, but of the self. Set amidst the untamed beauty of Riviera Nayarit's mega-diverse landscape and nearly 200 miles of untouched Pacific shoreline, Rosewood Mandarina offers an immersive experience across three distinct ecosystems: whether perched atop the lush mountain with sweeping ocean vistas, nestled along the pristine Canalan beachfront, or situated on the sprawling agrarian flatlands at the resort's heart, guests are called to connect with the region's dreamlike environment in a deeply personal way. Owned by developer RLH Properties, this resort represents Rosewood's fourth property in Mexico and a landmark opening for the brand's esteemed portfolio. With great reverence for its surroundings and cultural heritage, Rosewood Mandarina weaves local storytelling into every element of the guest experience.
Each of the 134 ultra-luxurious accommodations—including three specialty suites and two expansive standalone villas—offers a private plunge pool, expansive terraces, and bespoke design elements crafted in collaboration with local artisans to honor the region's rich heritage. For the pinnacle of rarefied luxury, the Canalan Beachfront Villa and the Cora Four Bedroom Mountaintop Villa provide unparalleled space, privacy, and breathtaking views, complete with infinity pools that blend effortlessly into the horizon.
As part of the celebrated Mandarina development, the resort offers an array of curated experiences, from exhilarating surfing and ziplining to horseback riding and spirited polo matches at the Mandarina Equestrian Club, while the Mandarina Golf Club opened April 1st. Rosewood Mandarina invites guests on a gastronomic journey that celebrates regional flavors across multiple dining venues, all paying homage to the region's fascinating culinary heritage and time-honored ingredients. Guests can savor soulful Mexican fare at La Cocina just steps from the shore of the Pacific Ocean or relax with good vibes and coastal Spanish cuisine on the beach at Buena Onda. Later this year, guests can experience the refined artistry of Toppu, an elegant Japanese fine-dining restaurant at the top of the mountain, or sip craft cocktails at the hidden cliffside Barra Peñasco. The property's four serene oceanfront pools, state-of-the-art fitness center, and signature Asaya Spa invite guests to enjoy unparalleled relaxation, while younger visitors can engage in enriching, destination-inspired programming at Rosewood Explorers kids' club.
Culturally Rooted Design
Drawing inspiration from the ultra-diverse landscape of Riviera Nayarit, Rosewood Mandarina's design—led by Caroline Meersseman of Bando x Seidel Meersseman—merges modern luxury with the serenity of its extraordinary surroundings. Led by a deep understanding of how the region's culture and natural environment are intimately intertwined, Meersseman and her team have thoughtfully conceived the entire property to blend harmoniously with the landscape and the region's centuries-old traditions. The resort's furnishings and decorative elements celebrate the artistry of the region's Indigenous Huichol and Cora peoples, incorporating traditional techniques and styles in a way that showcases their profound cultural influence.
Nearly every design element at Rosewood Mandarina is custom-made, offering a meaningful connection to the region's artistry. Huichol crafts can be discovered throughout the property, from intricate embroidery, beading, and yarn art (made with beeswax and wool) to ojo de dios motifs and hand-sculpted Barro Negro pottery. Equally integral, the Cora people's artistry is reflected in the resort's use of intricate knotting, binding, and fiber constructions—most notably in the arrival pavilion, where the traditional rope-assembly installations create a striking sense of place. Native artisans collaborated closely with Meersseman and her team to create site-specific pieces, using ancestral methods that celebrate and preserve these cultural traditions. The result is a resort aesthetic that is not only visually stunning but also a living tribute to the artistic legacy of Riviera Nayarit.
The Pinnacle of Coastal Luxury Accommodations
One of Rosewood Mandarina's most distinctive features is its accommodations, thoughtfully designed to connect guests with the local environment, culture, and heritage. Embracing the region's ecological diversity, the resort's suites immerse guests in a landscape where white-sand beaches, coastal estuaries, mountainous terrain, and agrarian flatlands converge. Each suite category reflects and harmonizes with its environment: Cliffside retreats are positioned to take advantage of the panoramic ocean vistas; beachfront sanctuaries offer the rare privilege of direct access to the Pacific Ocean and Canalan beach; and tranquil accommodations set within the resort's flatlands include sun-drenched outdoor spaces with views of the entire landscape. This close integration with nature creates an intimate experience that honors the Indigenous roots and untamed beauty of Nayarit while providing the utmost in comfort. Every accommodation features generously sized private plunge pools, expansive terraces, and bespoke design elements crafted in collaboration with local artists and artisans, ensuring a deep Sense of Place®.
For the ultimate in luxury, Rosewood Mandarina's two standalone villas redefine resort living. The Canalan Beachfront Villa, positioned directly on the sand just steps from the shore, offers unrivaled immersion into Pacific coastal beauty. Spanning two floors, this exclusive retreat includes two king bedrooms, a full kitchen, elegant indoor dining and living spaces, a private gym, a media room, a jacuzzi, an indoor garden, a deep soaking tub, and an outdoor rain shower. Meanwhile, the Cora Mountaintop Villa commands breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and ocean from the most rarefied vantage point at Rosewood Mandarina; its 13,000 square feet of space blends grandeur with understated sophistication and features four bedrooms, a media room, a private gym, and a private infinity lap pool that flows out over the cliffside. Both villas feature open-air living areas designed to maximize natural light and uninterrupted vistas, culminating in dramatic infinity pools that blend subtly into the landscape.
A Celebration of Culinary Tradition & Innovation
Rooted in the bounty of Riviera Nayarit, Rosewood Mandarina's culinary program honors heritage, craftsmanship, and seasonality. Each dining experience is guided by a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and ancestral cooking techniques. Whether savoring the rustic pleasures of a traditional Mexican kitchen or the refined artistry of a Japanese irori, every meal is a celebration of place and palate.
La Cocina: The Soul of Mexican Cuisine
Set directly on the beach, La Cocina offers elevated dining inspired by the soulful traditions of the Mexican kitchen. Mornings begin with handmade tortillas cooked on the wood-fired comal, locally sourced tropical fruit, and freshly brewed regional coffee and chocolate. By midday, the open-air dining room becomes a lively taqueria and the menu showcases tacos, grilled fish, aguachiles, and ceviches, embracing bold flavors and ocean-fresh ingredients. As evening falls, fresh-caught seafood is cooked over a wood-fired grill in the local zarandeado style, alongside elevated Mexican classics served under star-filled skies.
Toppu: Refined Japanese Cuisine on a Mountain Peak
Bridging the shared traditions of Mexican and Japanese cuisine, Toppu, the resort's signature dining experience, draws inspiration from izakaya and robatayaki traditions. Suspended above the valley floor with sweeping ocean views, the restaurant is a masterclass in precision and flavor, featuring an exposed irori (sunken charcoal grill) and yakitori grill, a tempura bar, and a specialty sushi and cold counter. Dayboat-harvested seafood and locally sourced meats and produce take center stage, highlighting the synergy between method and product. The beverage menu draws inspiration from the landscapes that converge at Mandarina—ocean, flatlands, and jungle—blending the bold flavors of Mexico with the rigor of Japanese mixology.
Barra Peñasco: A Hidden Oasis of Mixology
Perched dramatically on a hidden cliff above the roaring Pacific and nestled among ancient Higuera Blanca trees, Barra Peñasco offers a spiritual and immersive cocktail experience rooted in shamanic traditions and elemental mixology. Inspired by the elements of water, earth, air, and fire, the bar program blends ancestral botanicals, local spirits and ingredients, and contemporary techniques to create a sensory journey unlike any other. This intimate, open-air speakeasy welcomes guests from sunset to the early morning hours.
Buena Onda: Good Vibes on the Beach
A welcoming respite set at the base of the mountain, just beside the main pool area, Buena Onda is a relaxing retreat for refreshing drinks and coastal Spanish fare. Set on the beach just above the crashing waves, it serves an affable menu of classic cocktails, sangrias, and chilled wines and beers, accompanied by tapas, simply grilled seafood, meats, and vegetables, and classic Iberian dishes. Lively and laid back, Buena Onda is open from late morning until the sun goes down.
Wellness in Harmony with Nature
Rooted in the belief system of the Huichol people, Rosewood Mandarina's holistic wellness philosophy embraces the idea that the body, mind, and spirit are in constant need of renewal and self-discovery—an ethos embodied in Asaya Spa. With a pair of ancient parotta trees at its center, the square-shaped layout mirrors the energy of this sacred species, long revered for its healing properties—guiding guests through curated wellness journeys that foster connection, restoration, and exploration.
At the heart of Asaya Spa are treatments inspired by healing rituals passed down through generations of the region's Indigenous communities. Among them is the Mara'akame Journey, a massage created to honor the Huichol pilgrimage for spiritual enlightenment and designed to induce deep rest and heighten dream awareness. Another signature experience adopts tobacco, used by the Huichol as a natural remedy and known for its detoxifying and hydrating properties, incorporating a tobacco-infused compress to replenish and restore the skin.
One of Asaya Spa's most distinctive offerings is its family-focused wellness experiences, inviting guests of all ages to engage in meaningful self-care. Designed to strengthen bonds and instill the importance of well-being, these programs blend fun and mindfulness through activities tailored for families. Beyond the spa, guests can extend their wellness journey into the natural beauty of Mandarina and Riviera Nayarit, whether through invigorating pursuits like pickleball and surfing or peaceful practices such as outdoor yoga and spiritual hikes to the ancient La Abuela tree, a site held as sacred for centuries.
Immersive Adventures in Riviera Nayarit
Rosewood Mandarina offers bespoke experiences designed to introduce guests to the rich landscapes, culture, and traditions of Riviera Nayarit. On-property adventures include an exhilarating ziplining journey and ropes course through the jungle canopy. Equestrian culture is woven into the fabric of Riviera Nayarit, and Rosewood Mandarina celebrates this sport through exclusive access to the Mandarina Polo & Equestrian Club. Guests can watch world-class polo matches, take private lessons, or try their hand at the sport themselves. For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, guided horseback excursions offer a breathtaking journey from rainforest trails to the ocean's edge. The club is also planning a therapeutic equine program, harnessing the healing energy of horses to foster balance, growth, and self-discovery.
The Mandarina Golf Club features a signature golf course designed by the legendary player and designer Greg Norman. The 9-hole short course, plus an additional "challenge" hole for a thrilling conclusion, presents a new style of leisure and entertainment within the sprawling green landscape of the flatlands, overlooking the Sierra de Vallejo mountain range.
The experience concierge also curates tailored excursions for guests beyond the resort, from exploring the bohemian markets of Sayulita and San Pancho to discovering the secluded beaches of the Marietas Islands.
Enriching Children's Experiences
Rosewood Mandarina redefines family-friendly luxury with the Explorers Club, a curriculum-based program designed to immerse children in nature, culture, and adventure. Inspired by The Journey of Tunuri and the Blue Deer—a Huichol teaching tale that celebrates stewardship and discovery—the Explorers Club offers a thoughtfully curated experience that blends education with exploration. From the moment children step into space, they embark on an interactive journey designed to deepen their connection to the natural world. Hands-on activities include nature hikes, water adventures, fossil searches, sustainability workshops, and cultural field trips, all crafted to engage young minds while fostering curiosity and environmental awareness.
A Commitment to Community & Conservation
Rooted in Rosewood Hotels & Resorts' philosophy that hospitality should create a meaningful impact, Rosewood Mandarina blends thoughtful luxury with social and environmental responsibility. The resort is dedicated to both cultural preservation and ecological stewardship, embracing sustainability in every aspect of its operations. As an active community partner, Rosewood Mandarina collaborates with local and national organizations to support eco-friendly initiatives that safeguard the region's biodiverse landscapes, from lush estuaries and dense jungles to pristine coastline. These environments are home to rare and extraordinary wildlife, including the endearing coati and the American crocodile, whose presence enriches the Mandarina story and offers a deeper connection to nature for guests.
Guests are invited to participate in experiential activities that give back while enhancing their stay. Opportunities include art workshops led by native artisans, spiritually focused nature experiences, and hands-on community-building and recycling initiatives that support underserved populations. These immersive programs ensure that Rosewood Mandarina is a place where luxury and legacy converge, fostering a positive impact on both people and planet.
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