YUC’ATÅL SECRET RETREAT: A Journey to the Essential in Yucatán

Imagine a journey that awakens all your senses, where Yucatán’s cultural richness and natural beauty come together to redefine luxury. From October 21 to 24, YUC’ATÅL SECRET RETREAT: A Journey to the Essential was created to introduce the evolution of YucatánLove into YUC’ATÅL, a new brand that aims to design deeper, more meaningful experiences across four unique pillars: Romance (Love), Nature (Bloom), Wellness (Flow), and Culture (Mind). With over 14 years of expertise in crafting unforgettable destination weddings, YucatánLove has shaped countless love stories, leaving an indelible mark on every couple and guest. Now, through this exclusive retreat, media representatives were invited to discover and share this renewed vision, experiencing firsthand a carefully curated itinerary that embodies YUC’ATÅL’s commitment to authenticity, comfort, and a profound connection with Yucatán’s essence. Prepare to immerse yourself in a journey through the most iconic corners of the peninsula, where every moment captures the sophistication of YUC’ATÅL.

DAY 1

YUC’ATÅL MIND: Lunch at Pueblo Pibil

The first day began with the arrival of guests at the renowned Pueblo Pibil restaurant in Tixkokob, famous for its appearances on Tastemade and Las Crónicas del Taco on Netflix. This place is a true tribute to traditional Yucatecan cuisine, where ancestral flavors are presented with excellence and authenticity. Guests were transported in comfortable Suburban vehicles by Mayan Heritage, ensuring the experience started with the utmost comfort.

Upon arrival at Pueblo Pibil, guests immersed themselves in the deepest culinary tradition of the region: the ancient pib technique, which involves cooking food underground. The experience began with Chef Silvia Campos showcasing the unearthing of relleno negro, a traditional Yucatecan dish, providing guests with an authentic demonstration of this ancestral cooking method.

“This restaurant has a beautiful history and the recipes have been passed from generation to generation.”  – Sandra Notario.

Later, guests had the chance to participate firsthand by unearthing their own miniature cochinita pibil, experiencing the technique on a smaller scale. Beyond enjoying the cochinita, they were treated to an array of additional traditional dishes from the region, each offering its own burst of Yucatecan flavors. It was not only a feast of unique tastes but also an engaging opportunity to understand how award-winning chefs keep this method alive, captivating palates around the world. Each bite became a journey through time, a tribute to Yucatecan heritage that left guests in awe of the flavors’ authenticity.

“The experience of unearthing the cochinita, but now brought to the table. This dish is quite an experience, you have to stir the “ceniza” with a spoon, then open a mini casserole and enjoy the traditional dish of the region, a MUST!” – Melissa Lara from The Wedding Book.

YUC’ATÅL BLOOM: Arrival to Hacienda San Jose Cholul, a Special Welcome

The day continued at the majestic Hacienda San José Cholul, a 17th-century treasure restored with Mayan materials to preserve its authentic essence. Upon arrival, guests were welcomed into a setting that reflected YUC’ATÅL BLOOM—a pillar inspired by the profound connection between humanity and the life that emerges from our land. The experience invited guests to go beyond simply admiring the beauty of the surroundings, subtly awakening a sense of being part of nature’s cycle. The hacienda, with its preserved colonial buildings and 18th-century chapel murals, radiated historical splendor. Meanwhile, the iconic pool surrounded by lush greenery and the sacred Mayan tree, which comes alive at night with incredible lighting, offered a unique and unforgettable view.

“This experience is so beautiful. The whole atmosphere is very relaxing; it’s incredible.” – Eduardo Cabrera, Itinerario Turístico | Grupo Radio Fórmula.

Every time guests arrived at their rooms, something special awaited to amaze them: personalized amenities tailored to their stay and a carefully selected Welcome Bag filled with local treasures.

“The people at YUC’ATÅL know how to do things, stimulating all our senses.” – Sandra Notario.

YUC’ATÅLOVE (YucatánLove): Cena del Maíz – Chef Roberto Solís’ Menu

As the evening unfolded, guests gathered in anticipation at the Jardín Palmeras, a lush garden that created the perfect ambiance for a culinary journey through one of Yucatán’s most cherished ingredients: maize. This dinner aimed to not only satisfy appetites but also to celebrate the cultural significance of maize, a staple deeply rooted in Yucatecan heritage. The menu, crafted by the renowned Chef Roberto Solís, invited attendees to explore bold and contemporary interpretations of traditional flavors. Known as a pioneer of new Yucatecan cuisine, Solís masterfully reimagined the region’s iconic ingredient, presenting it in ways that surprised and delighted everyone present.

“This trip taught us so much, and one of the most important lessons is that magic also happens at the tables.”  – Melissa Lara from The Wedding Book

DAY 2

YUC’ATÅL FLOW: Meditation + Sound Bath

The second day began with a buffet breakfast at the hacienda, surrounded by the serene atmosphere of its colonial architecture and lush vegetation. The morning continued with a guided meditation and sound bath led by Amalendu Deva. Under the YUC’ATÅL FLOW pillar, this session sought balance between body and mind, providing a moment of calm and deep connection with Yucatán’s natural surroundings.

“Today we had a beautiful sound healing meditation, followed by mimosas to toast love.” – Sandra Notario.

YUC’ATÅLOVE (YucatánLove): Flower Workshop

After the meditation, the flower workshop took place in the beautiful gardens of the hacienda, led by Más que Ayer and Minimal 4.0. This activity, under the YUC’ATÅLOVE (YucatánLove) pillar, allowed participants to explore their creativity by designing personalized floral arrangements using native Yucatecan flowers. The atmosphere was filled with vibrant colors and fresh scents, creating a space where nature and celebration blended harmoniously. 

“This activity now involves working together to create floral arrangements with YUC’ATÅLOVE and Minimal 4.0, who decorate events.” – Stephanie Carmon, MID CityBeat

“The purpose of this happening is to understand the behind-the-scenes of essential wedding services like floral design.” – Melissa Lara from The Wedding Book. 

“We had a floral workshop, freedom to the imagination! We could choose the type of vase and the flowers. I felt like a happy bee, I loved this experience.” – Sandra Notario

YUC’ATÅL MIND: Lunch at Kanché

The next destination was Kanché, a hidden bar behind the famous Kinich restaurant in Izamal, known for its relaxed and bohemian atmosphere. This award-winning space, recognized as the Best Restaurant Design by Architectural Digest México and crafted by architects Vagantes, offers a unique culinary experience, perfect for enjoying artisanal drinks and cocktails prepared with local ingredients. Lunch celebrated Yucatán’s culinary richness in a setting that beautifully combined tradition with contemporary elements.

“The menu surprised us: bar food, but always integrating the techniques, flavors and traditional dishes of Yucatán.” – Melissa Lara from The Wedding Book. 

YUC’ATÅL Dinner

The YUC’ATÅL Dinner was more than a meal; it was a full celebration of the brand’s pillars, set beneath the remarkable Tree of Dreams at Hacienda San José Cholul. This ancient tree, with its intertwined roots and soft lantern lighting, has been the silent witness to countless unforgettable events, adding a layer of enchantment to the evening. Under its expansive canopy, guests experienced a dinner that awakened all the senses. Altaporta, with over 32 years of experience, meticulously designed the meal, combining local flavors with cutting-edge culinary techniques, while Minimal 4.0 transformed the space into an amazing setting with décor inspired by the natural elements of the region.

Luis Ángel Canul y Guerra concluded the dinner with a heartfelt speech that deeply connected with the attendees. He started by expressing sincere gratitude to all the media present, acknowledging their support. He then introduced the YUC’ATÅL brand, sharing its vision and mission to redefine the way Yucatán is experienced. Luis also took a moment to thank each member of the team, highlighting their contributions to the project. Following this, he presented the official launch video, which visually captured the essence of the brand. He ended his speech by extending special thanks to Altaporta for curating the exceptional dinner. The atmosphere was enhanced not only by Secosur‘s music but also by their immersive lighting, culminating in a visual projection that celebrated the bond between culture and nature, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

DAY 3

YUC’ATÅL MIND: Cultural Tour of Izamal

The third day focused on the YUC’ATÅL MIND pillar with a tour of the Magical Town of Izamal, known as the “Ciudad Amarilla.” Guests explored its colonial streets, churches, and Mayan ruins, immersing themselves in the historical heart of Yucatán, where culture and tradition intertwine magically.

Visit to Kinich

The visit to Kinich, an iconic restaurant in Izamal, offered guests an authentic immersion into traditional Yucatecan cuisine. Nestled within the colonial architecture of this Magical Town, the restaurant provided a unique setting with its open-air dining areas surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a tranquil ambiance that beautifully celebrates Yucatán’s culture and history. As guests settled into this serene environment, they indulged in a delightful spread of food entries, including panuchos filled with cochinita pibil, chaya empanadas with queso de bola, and papadzules, each dish representing a distinct flavor of the region. For the main course, they were treated to venado almendrado, a true Yucatecan delicacy that impressed even the most discerning palates. To finish, a selection of traditional desserts, such as dulce de papaya and flan de queso de bola, provided a sweet conclusion to this rich culinary journey.

“Kinich is a Yucatecan wonder!” – Ximena Castañeda, Bodas & Co

“Kinich Izamal has been honoring Yucatecan cuisine for 31 years.” – Sandra Notario.

Visit to Coqui Coqui

The sensory experience continued at Coqui Coqui, where guests enjoyed a perfume tasting inspired by the flora of Yucatán.

“The place is beautiful and incredibly inspiring”, reflecting YUC’ATÅL’s connection to nature and local culture.” – Melissa Lara from The Wedding Book.

Visit to the Convent of San Antonio de Padua

The next stop was the Convent of San Antonio de Padua, a historic landmark in the heart of Izamal. Built on the remains of a former Mayan pyramid, the convent is renowned for its vast atrium, which is the largest in the Americas and second only to St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican. The Convent hosted a special mass by Pope John Paul II in 1993, commemorated by a statue of the pope in the atrium.

Guests explored the open courtyard, capturing content and taking photos, while also entering the church to admire its stunning baroque altar and unique architecture. Inside, many were captivated by the Black Christ, a revered figure that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in the region, adding an element of awe to the experience.

Visit to Taller Maya

The visit to Taller Maya allowed guests to engage closely with local craftsmanship, guided by both master artisans and craftswomen. Participants worked with henequen, papier-mâché, and clay, using pre-prepared models as a base to create their own pieces, following detailed instructions from the artisans. Set against the backdrop of a Mayan pyramid, this hands-on experience offered an authentic glimpse into Yucatán’s creativity and cultural heritage, showcasing the traditional skills preserved by the local community.

“Serenidad” Lunch at Taller Maya

Lunch at the Taller Maya courtyard was a celebration of traditional Yucatecan flavors, served by Kinich. This moment allowed attendees to enjoy a culinary experience that captured the essence of YUC’ATÅL MIND.

“Amazing lunch with a pre-Hispanic view!” – Stephanie Carmon, MID CityBeat.

YUC’ATÅLOVE (YucatánLove): Closing Dinner “Delicado” at San Antonio Millet

The Closing Dinner ‘Delicado’ at Hacienda San Antonio Millet was not just the end of an unforgettable event but also the emotional climax of the retreat. In this majestic 17th-century hacienda, guests experienced an evening filled with elegance and sophistication. Minimal 4.0 transformed the venue with décor that artfully combined ancient and contemporary elements. The centerpiece was a stunning mirrored table, which reflected the smiles of the guests as glasses clinked in celebration, while soft candlelight added a captivating glow to the ambiance.

“Thank you YUC’ATÅLOVE for this incredible and memorable experience!” – Eduardo Cabrera, Itinerario Turístico | Grupo Radio Fórmula.

Hacienda San Antonio Millet presented an amazing menu, each dish masterfully crafted to reflect the essence of Yucatán, leaving attendees with the promise of returning to the peninsula. The night was accompanied by the live music of Gina Osorno, whose talent and voice enveloped the space with emotion, adding a touch of nostalgia and celebration to the experience. As the evening drew to a close, Luis Ángel Canul y Guerra expressed heartfelt gratitude to the guests, warmly inviting them to return for future experiences. He also celebrated the bonds of friendship formed throughout the retreat, making it a memorable and transformative moment for everyone present.

DAY 4

Farewell in Yucatán

The final day of the retreat marked the end of an unforgettable journey through Yucatán’s essence. As guests prepared to depart, they gathered one by one for their checkout, exchanging smiles and heartfelt farewells. Conversations were filled with laughter and shared anecdotes, a testament to the bonds formed during the experience. In the cool morning air, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and tea accompanied each guest, offering warmth and comfort before their journey home. Promises of returning to this enchanting place lingered, as the memories of YUC’ATÅL remained vivid, a reminder of the journey that had unfolded over the past days.

SPECIAL THANKS

A heartfelt thank you to Carlos for the lunch at Pueblo Pibil, where each dish connected us to the roots of Yucatecan cuisine. To Christian for the warm hospitality at Hacienda San José Cholul, which offered a memorable night under the stars. To Fernando and Antonio from Más que ayer and Minimal for creating an exceptional floral and decorative setting. To Miriam and Victor for the lunches at Kinich y Kanché, a true journey through authentic flavors. To Jorge and Altaporta for an immersive culinary experience, and to Dianela and Martin from Secosur for the magical lighting of the evening. To Alma for the exquisite wine selection from La Castellana. To Fabrizio for capturing each moment with his visual art, and to Matías for the sensory experience at Coqui Coqui. To Carola Diez, Taller Maya and Fundación Haciendas del Mundo Maya for sharing Yucatán’s cultural and artisanal heritage, and to Marissa Calderón for the enchanting atmosphere at Hacienda San Antonio Millet, which provided a perfect conclusion to the event.

THANK YOU TO OUR GUESTS

We appreciate the visit of each media representative and invited press member, and we look forward to your return to continue sharing unique experiences.

Samia Hayatt from Quién
Mariel Otero from Nupcias and México Desconocido
Melissa Lara from The Wedding Book
Mónica Herrera from Reforma Travel
Israel Vázquez from Marie Claire
Ximena Castañeda from Bodas & Co
Sandra Notario from Sandra Notario Weddings
Eduardo Cabrera from Itinerario Turístico | Grupo Radio Fórmula
Cristóbal Sandoval from Milenio Chic
Stephanie Carmon from MID CityBeat