Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

The Hacienda Sotuta de Peon, a magnificent colonial estate located in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, holds a legacy that dates back to the 18th century. Constructed by the Spanish conquistadors, this grand hacienda served as a thriving center of agricultural production, primarily cultivating sisal, a natural fiber used in the production of rope and twine.

In its early years, the Hacienda Sotuta de Peon was a bustling hub of activity, employing skilled Maya workers who meticulously harvested and processed sisal. The hacienda's vast fields provided sustenance and livelihood to the surrounding communities, contributing to the region's economic prosperity.

As times changed, the dynamics of the hacienda evolved. In the mid-19th century, the hacienda underwent a transformation, transitioning from a solely agricultural enterprise to a multifaceted estate. The Peon family, who had acquired ownership of the hacienda, expanded its operations to include cattle ranching and the cultivation of other crops.

In the early 20th century, the Hacienda Sotuta de Peon faced economic challenges due to the decline in the global demand for sisal. However, the resourceful Peon family successfully diversified their business ventures, establishing a sugar mill and introducing new agricultural practices to ensure the hacienda's continued viability.

Throughout its rich history, the Hacienda Sotuta de Peon remained a family-run estate, passing down through generations of the Peon lineage. The hacienda's resilience and adaptability allowed it to withstand the test of time, evolving from a colonial agricultural enterprise to a modern-day tourist attraction and cultural heritage site.

The Architecture of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

The Hacienda Sotuta de Peon boasts a unique architectural style that blends colonial and Mayan influences. Built in the 18th century, the hacienda's main building features a central courtyard surrounded by arched colonnades and vibrant pastel-colored walls. Constructed using locally sourced materials such as limestone and wood, the hacienda exemplifies the harmony between European and indigenous architectural traditions.

The intricate stone carvings and elaborate tilework that adorn the hacienda's façade showcase the artistic prowess of its builders. The use of natural materials, such as clay tiles for the roofs and thatched roofs for some of the outbuildings, further reflects the hacienda's deep connection to its surroundings.

Despite undergoing several renovations and expansions over the centuries, the hacienda's original architectural integrity has been carefully preserved. Today, Hacienda Sotuta de Peon stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region, showcasing a harmonious blend of colonial elegance and Mayan artistry.

The Grounds of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

The grounds of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon are extensive and offer a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The well-manicured gardens are a popular spot for strolling, and the lush vegetation provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and iguanas. There are also several swimming pools on the property, as well as a tennis court and a volleyball court.

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are several hiking trails that wind through the property, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore the nearby cenote, a natural swimming hole that is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

The grounds of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon are also home to a number of historical sites, including the ruins of a Maya temple and a colonial-era chapel. Visitors can learn about the history of the hacienda and the region by visiting these sites, and by taking a guided tour of the property.

Whether you are looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, or to get active and explore the property, the grounds of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon have something to offer everyone.

The Interior of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

The interior of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon is just as impressive as the exterior. The hacienda has 23 rooms, each with its own unique décor and furnishings. The rooms are spacious and airy, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light.

The furniture in the hacienda is a mix of antique and modern pieces. The antique pieces are mostly made of wood and have a colonial-style design. The modern pieces are more contemporary in style, but they still blend in well with the overall décor of the hacienda.

Some of the unique features of the hacienda's interior include the grand staircase, the library, and the chapel. The grand staircase is made of marble and has a wrought-iron railing. The library is stocked with books on a variety of topics, including history, art, and literature. The chapel is a small, intimate space that is used for religious services and weddings.

The interior of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon is a beautiful and historic space that is sure to impress visitors. The hacienda is a popular destination for weddings, events, and other special occasions. It is also a great place to stay for a few days and relax in the peace and quiet of the countryside.

The Museum of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

The museum at Hacienda Sotuta de Peon is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of the region. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Maya civilization, as well as from the colonial period and the Mexican Revolution.

The museum's exhibits are well-curated and informative, and provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who have lived on this land. Visitors can learn about the Maya's agricultural practices, their religious beliefs, and their way of life. They can also learn about the Spanish conquest of Mexico, and the impact that it had on the Maya people.

The museum is housed in a beautiful building that was once the hacienda's sugar mill. The building has been restored to its former glory, and now provides a fitting home for the museum's collection. Visitors to the museum can also enjoy the beautiful gardens that surround the building.

The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 5pm. Admission is free.

The Hotel of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

The hotel at Hacienda Sotuta de Peon is a beautiful and historic property that offers guests a unique and luxurious experience. The hotel has 22 rooms and suites, all of which are decorated in a traditional Mexican style. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and many of them offer stunning views of the hacienda's gardens and grounds.

The hotel also offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. The fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, and the restaurant serves a variety of delicious Mexican and international dishes.

The prices at the hotel at Hacienda Sotuta de Peon are very reasonable, especially considering the level of luxury and service that is offered. Rooms start at $100 per night, and suites start at $150 per night. The hotel also offers a variety of packages that include meals, activities, and spa treatments.

One of the unique features of the hotel at Hacienda Sotuta de Peon is its commitment to sustainability. The hotel uses solar panels to generate electricity, and it has a water conservation program in place. The hotel also supports local farmers and businesses, and it offers a variety of eco-friendly activities for guests.

The Tours of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to explore the history, architecture, and natural beauty of the property.

The basic tour includes a guided walk through the hacienda's grounds, a visit to the cenote, and a stop at the Maya ruins. This tour is perfect for those who want to get a general overview of the hacienda.

The extended tour includes everything in the basic tour, plus a visit to the museum and a horseback riding tour of the property. This tour is perfect for those who want to learn more about the hacienda's history and culture.

The private tour is a customized tour that can be tailored to the specific interests of the visitors. This tour is perfect for those who want a more personalized experience.

All tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the history and culture of the hacienda. Tours are available in English and Spanish.

Prices for tours:

Basic tour: $20 USD per person
Extended tour: $30 USD per person
Private tour: $40 USD per person

Tips for taking a tour:

Book your tour in advance, especially if you are visiting during the high season.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes.
Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the hacienda and its surroundings.

Hours of Operation of Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon is open to the public daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Guided tours are available in English and Spanish every hour on the hour. The last tour departs at 4:00 pm. The cenote is open for swimming from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. The hotel is open 24 hours a day. The spa is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

There are no special hours of operation for tours or events. However, some special events, such as weddings and parties, may require the hacienda to be closed to the public. It is advisable to check the hacienda's website or call ahead to confirm the hours of operation before visiting.

The hacienda is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

Throughout the year, the hacienda hosts a variety of special events, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals. For more information about upcoming events, please visit the hacienda's website.

Insider Tip

The best time to visit Hacienda Sotuta de Peon is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the hacienda's grounds and enjoying the many outdoor activities that are available.

When visiting Hacienda Sotuta de Peon, be sure to take advantage of the many unique experiences that the hacienda has to offer. These include swimming in the cenote, exploring the Maya ruins, taking a cooking class, or simply relaxing in a hammock and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Please be mindful that the hacienda is a historic property, so it is important to be respectful of the grounds and the buildings and to follow any rules or regulations that are in place.

In addition to visiting the hacienda, there are many other things to do in the surrounding area. These include visiting the nearby city of Merida, exploring the many cenotes in the region, or taking a day trip to the ancient Maya city of Chichen Itza.

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon