It was a slight bitch to get there, an early morning flight, connection, customs. But, when I arrived at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula,  84 degree temps and a welcome margarita put the kabosh on irritation. At first glance, I was in love. The property hugs the coastline of Cabo and has an open air format (no large buildings to enter or exit) that rewards guests with constant friction with sun, sea and near-perfect weather. I  collapsed into the welcome embrace of a lounge chair delighted that the only music to be heard was the crash of waves upon the shore. It only got better from there. I spent hours by the pool, enjoying crudo and the cocktails from the in-pool bar. Though kids are welcome at Pedregal, my feeling was that it is an adult sanctuary. Tranquility would be an understatement.

My room was massive and airy with high ceilings and a private plunge pool. Bonus points for the stand alone soaking tub. I love a standout amenity, especially one that offers a special sense of place. Each day, guacomacole and chips paired with a duo of Corona beers materialized at 4 pm. At night, Mexican candy was left by the bed, often with a fragrant piece of local rosemary.

Food, it’s a deal breaker. El Farallon is a restaurant literally built into the natural rock formations and suspended over the Sea of Cortez. I took advantage of this stunning setting with a guided tasting at the new champagne lounge. To enhance the flavor of the champagne, various Hawaiian salts and cheese were paired with the bubbly. Then, it was on to dinner. While watching the sun set, we feasted upon perfectly grilled mariscos paired with surprisingly delightful Mexican wines.