The Waldorf Astoria brand was eager to make a grand entrance into Mexico’s resort market, so they did, in the biggest—and smartest—way possible: by taking the helm of one of the country’s existing elite properties, The Resort at Pedregal on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula.
Rechristened the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal in September 2019, the expansive beachfront retreat, which has defined Mexican coastal glamour for the past 11 years, has now entered its next chapter of greatness. The reflagging of the 24-acre resort has ushered in new programming, amenities, and soft enhancements; thankfully, the beloved aesthetic of Pedregal’s suites, villas, multi-bedroom casitas, and private homes remains.
From studded mesquite wood doors to handcrafted dark wood furnishings, embroidered lamp shades, and artistic textiles that depict colorful journeys through the nation’s diverse regions, each room exudes Mexican majesty while staying relevant to today’s interior design vernacular. Accommodations also maximize Cabo’s dreamy ocean views by way of sea-facing floor plans (each housing a panoramic terrace, inclusive of plunge pool) framing the many splendors of this tract of the Pacific Ocean. Think: the ultimate trifecta of sand, surf, and sky peppered with natural rock arches, breaching humpback whales, and technicolor sunrises and sunsets.
Pedregal’s “new” Waldorf edge lies in augmented offerings both on- and off-property. At the more than 12,000-square-foot Waldorf Astoria Spa, choose from treatments inspired by the phases of the moon and authentic Mexican folk healing, complete with ingredients consecrated by curanderas (healers) and shamans. At cliffside El Farallón restaurant, begin the evening on the Champagne Terrace, where France’s finest bubbles are served by the glass and paired with the likes of caviar and mineral salts from around the world. Then, continue with a bespoke seafood dinner, choosing from ever-changing selections of day-caught fruits of the sea. Capture premium social media magic on the swings at the new beachfront Va y Viene Beach Bar, or stick with a tried-and-true Instagram favorite and chill in an amphibious lounger at the shallow end of the main infinity-edged pool.
Outside the beauty of its picture-perfect 24-acre cove, Pedregal is branching into experiential travel with “Beyond the Beach: Baja Curated Explorations,” a collection of seven bucket-list adventures with pampering touches. Swim with massive whale sharks off La Paz and explore the mountainous terrain, waterfalls, and hot springs of Sierra de la Laguna, aka the Xanadu of Baja’s Sierra. Or opt to sail to Espiritu Santo Island and its surrounding archipelago, home to a stunning union of red sandstone cliffs and crystalline waters, plus a resident colony of charismatic sea lions eager to entertain snorkelers with their curious, puppy-like behavior.
Just when it seemed the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal had thought of everything the leisure or active traveler could want, the pandemic struck and rewrote the playbook on luxury hospitality. The property has adapted quickly with enhanced safety precautions such as completely disinfected rooms that are sealed after cleaning, “knock and go” drop-off room service, and the use of personal protective equipment by spa therapists.
In addition, Pedregal has activated a number of stellar vacation packages that reflect the times. For the ultimate in social distancing, the “Private Passport to Pedregal,” a partnership with Schubach Aviation, provides private round-trip flights from anywhere in the U.S. to the Cabo San Lucas International Airport for groups of four to eight. It also includes private customs clearance on both ends of the trip, seven nights in a two-bedroom ocean-view suite, and daily in-residence breakfast.
Those looking into an idyllic tropical getaway for working or learning remotely can opt for the “Escape Longer” package, offering 30 percent off short-term residencies of more than a week in Pedregal’s residential-style villas and stand-alone homes, which boast fully equipped kitchens. Other perks include 24/7 dedicated butler service, 20 percent off spa and food and beverage, one private chef visit weekly, unlimited complimentary access to the kids’ club for two kids, and more. There’s also the new “Spanish Baja Cultural Immersion” program, a glorious week of Spanish lessons and excursions across the Baja peninsula.
Through a big-deal rebranding—and even a global pandemic—the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal authors yet another chapter in the narrative on modern Mexican luxury.
Facebook Comments