We hadn’t set foot in Tulum since the pandemic reshaped travel, social gatherings, and how we engage with culture. That pause felt seismic—a disruption to the once-vibrant cycle of art fairs like Miami Basel, Frieze, and Volta, where the world’s art elite gathered to uncover the latest creative expressions. Yet, as these events returned, so too did the overwhelming energy that often made it difficult to truly appreciate the art on display. With crowds jostling for space and the pressure to see everything at once, these fairs became more about the spectacle than the substance—a far cry from the meditative experience art deserves. Arriving in style in our chauffeur driven SUV provided by airssist, we were ready to see what the hotel had instore since our last visit.
Enter Casa Malca, a boutique luxury retreat nestled on the pristine shores of the Mayan Riviera. More than just a hotel, Casa Malca redefines how we engage with art, merging it seamlessly with the lush, natural beauty of Tulum’s coastline. It’s a living, breathing gallery where contemporary masterpieces coexist with architectural elegance and the tranquil allure of the Caribbean. Free from the frantic energy of traditional fairs, this new concept for experiencing art is as rejuvenating as it is inspiring. It’s a living, breathing gallery where you can immerse yourself in creative expression, free from the frantic energy of traditional fairs, surrounded instead by the tranquil allure of the Caribbean coastline.
The Vision: Art as a Lifestyle
Owned by Colombian art dealer Lio Malca, Casa Malca blurs the line between an art museum and a luxurious retreat. Since its opening, the hotel has embraced the concept of integrating art into everyday life. The result is a destination where creativity and indulgence coexist seamlessly. Malca’s vision was to create a space where guests don’t just observe art but live within it.
Every corner of Casa Malca is adorned with striking pieces, from the entrance’s dramatic velvet curtains to the surreal sculptures scattered across the lush gardens. The property’s design encourages exploration, with surprises awaiting around every corner. For instance, the red-carpeted wedding dress suspended in the lobby is both a visual spectacle and a conversation starter, while installations like Sunil Gawde’s Blind Bulbs and Jitish Kallat’s Eruda invite introspection.
Interior Design
Casa Malca’s interior design is an artistic marvel in itself, a seamless fusion of contemporary sophistication and rustic charm that reflects the essence of Tulum. Every corner of the property feels thoughtfully curated, with vibrant artworks and sculptures placed harmoniously alongside natural materials like reclaimed wood, stone, and lush greenery.
The rooms and shared spaces are bold yet inviting, blending neutral tones with pops of colour from the eclectic furnishings and decor. Statement pieces—such as suspended sofas, oversized art installations, and vintage treasures—add character to the property while encouraging guests to pause and reflect. This interplay of textures, patterns, and colours creates an immersive experience that is both luxurious and intimate, where art doesn’t just adorn the walls but becomes an integral part of the living environment.
A New Chapter: On-Site Gallery and Residencies
Today, Casa Malca has elevated its artistic offerings with the launch of an on-site gallery that hosts rotating exhibitions and artist residencies.
This initiative not only enriches the guest experience but also underscores the hotel’s commitment to supporting contemporary artists.
Guests now have the unique opportunity to engage with artists in residence, gaining insight into their creative processes and the stories behind their works.
The gallery’s curated exhibitions feature a mix of established and emerging talent, ensuring that every visit to Casa Malca feels fresh and inspiring. It’s a bold move that positions the hotel as a cultural hub, drawing in travellers who seek more than just a luxurious getaway.
Rooms That Redefine Opulence
Casa Malca’s accommodations are a testament to its philosophy of blending art, comfort, and the natural beauty of Tulum. Each room is a luxury suite, designed to immerse guests in unparalleled elegance while staying deeply connected to the surrounding environment. Our stay in the Master Suite Beachfront was nothing short of transformative. Situated mere steps from the Caribbean Sea, the suite embodies a perfect marriage of opulence and tranquillity.
Every detail of the suite has been thoughtfully curated, from the handpicked contemporary artwork selected by Lio Malca himself to the bespoke furniture that balances artistic flair with functionality. The space is anchored by floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the room with natural light and offer uninterrupted views of the turquoise waters beyond. A highlight was the private terrace, where we woke up to unforgettable sunrises painting the horizon in soft pinks and oranges and unwound with cocktails as the sun dipped below the waves. The second-floor balcony and outdoor jacuzzi hot tub further elevated the experience, allowing us to luxuriate under the stars or bask in the gentle ocean breeze in absolute privacy.
The suite's amenities are equally impressive. L'Occitane toiletries add a touch of indulgence, while the dual rainfall showers—one inside and one outdoors—make it tempting never to leave the room. Stepping into the outdoor shower, surrounded by lush greenery, was like entering a sanctuary where nature and design harmonised effortlessly. These thoughtful touches created a space that felt both intimate and luxurious, a feat many hotels struggle to achieve, especially in a setting as naturally captivating as Tulum.
This attention to detail extends throughout Casa Malca, where each room is a canvas brought to life through design, art, and an unwavering commitment to the guest experience. It’s more than just a place to stay; it’s a retreat that invites you to linger, immerse, and connect with the beauty of the Mayan Riviera.
Concept: Dining as an Art Form
Casa Malca doesn’t just showcase visual art; it extends its creative philosophy to the culinary realm. The newly introduced private dining area, Concept, is a work of art in itself. The space is adorned with intricate tapestries, vintage paintings, brass accents, and ivory statues, creating an atmosphere of opulence and intimacy. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply indulging in an exceptional meal, Concept offers a dining experience that’s as memorable as the food itself.
The culinary offerings at Casa Malca are equally impressive. The property features several dining venues, each with its own distinct character.
At Philosophy, the dining experience is a journey through international Mexican fusion, offering inventive dishes that highlight both local and global influences. One standout is their beef short rib, sourced from the USA and Durango, which is cooked for 16 hours in sous vide to achieve a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This complex dish is rich in taste and demonstrates the restaurant’s commitment to excellence. For seafood enthusiasts, Philosophy serves an array of fresh offerings from the nearby Sian Kan biosphere in Tulum. From oysters to local fish like Sushi Snapper, Seabass, and Grupa, each is marinated for 15 minutes in a secret sauce that enhances its natural essence, offering a true taste of the ocean.
Guests can indulge in diverse dining options at Head of a Mad Man, which features a kosher kitchen and a wood pizza oven, creating an intimate space for a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach. For those seeking something more extravagant, Concept provides a dinner party experience fit for the gods. The restaurant's chef, who explores global flavours every six months, brings seasonal produce and new culinary creations to the menu. Trained by the renowned chefs of Nobu, it’s clear that their influence has elevated the offerings at Ambrosia, where high-quality produce and the merging of diverse tastes shine through. Additionally, the in-house pastry chef ensures that the desserts are as exquisite as the main courses.
Head of a Madman: A Culinary and Artistic Fusion
Named after a Basquiat artwork, Head of a Madman is Casa Malca’s wood-fired grill restaurant. Here, the art isn’t confined to the walls; it extends to the plates. Signature dishes like the 16-hour sous-vide beef short rib and grilled lobster exemplify the restaurant’s focus on simplicity and flavour. The open-air design and Basquiat-inspired decor create a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a favourite among guests.
Complementing the dining experience is the Haring Bar, where Keith Haring’s iconic chalk illustrations provide a whimsical backdrop. The bar serves an array of craft cocktails, from classic margaritas to inventive creations like the mezcal-based Smoked Tropic. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the property.
A Personalised Experience
What sets Casa Malca apart from other luxury hotels is its attention to personalisation. During our stay, the staff went above and beyond to make every moment special. For a birthday celebration, they surprised us with a display of balloons, macarons, a custom cake, and a mariachi band serenade at Philosophy. These thoughtful touches demonstrate the team’s dedication to creating unforgettable memories for their guests.
Casa Malca’s personalised approach extends to its wellness offerings. The property features a full-service spa that specialises in treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The hydrotherapy circuit, which includes a steam room, sauna, and plunge pool, is a highlight, providing a serene escape from the stresses of daily life. Massage therapies, using locally sourced ingredients like Mayan clay and coconut oil, further enhance the experience.
Amenities That Pamper the Soul
Beyond the art and dining, Casa Malca offers an array of amenities designed to pamper the soul. The property boasts an array of pools, including a grotto pool surrounded by tropical foliage. Each pool area is thoughtfully designed, offering both privacy and a sense of connection to the natural environment.
For fitness enthusiasts, the hotel provides a well-equipped gym with stunning views of the gardens. Yoga classes are also available, allowing guests to start their day with a grounding practice. And for those travelling with pets, Casa Malca’s dog-friendly policy ensures that your furry companions are as pampered as you are.
Why Casa Malca Stands Out
In a world where luxury often feels impersonal, Casa Malca offers a deeply personal experience that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a place where art, nature, and hospitality come together to create something truly unique. Whether you’re wandering through the on-site gallery, savouring a meal at Head of a Madman, or simply relaxing in your art-filled suite, every moment at Casa Malca feels like a celebration of creativity and individuality.
As the art world continues to evolve, destinations like Casa Malca remind us that the most meaningful experiences aren’t confined to traditional galleries or fairs. Here, art becomes a part of your daily life, enriching your journey in ways that are both profound and unexpected. Forget the art fair circuit—Casa Malca is where the true magic happens.
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Casa Malca
KM 9.5, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Phone: +52 984 240 2546
For further information and rates, visit Casa Malca HERE
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
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