Cactus Karma

Baja California, Mexico

Additional Research, Images

The Loreto Baja, in Baja California, Mexico, is situated in its own secluded seaside cove with beach and wading pools. This resort describes itself as 'the perfect playground for both children and adults' and looking at the location and the facilities on offer it’s hard to disagree. The hotel is framed by the dramatic La Giganta Mountains which tower 4000 feet above, blue in the heat haze. Loreto is a town of contrasts. Not just the ideal choice for a beach vacation with superb diving, fishing and swimming but also a place to appreciate the wide open spaces of the desert. There's history here too: the Spanish founded their first mission in Baja California at Loreto and it was declared the first Capital of the Californias.

The resort offers a full range of accommodation furnished in the modern Mexican style. All rooms are fully air conditioned and have Casa Blanca fans to keep things really cool. Amenities include a digital safety deposit box, satellite TV, minibar and hairdryer. For vacationers wanting to spread out in style the five master suites and presidential suite come with their very own private jacuzzi and a large private terrace.

There are plenty of choices when it comes to dining. Top of the bill is the Salvaterra Restaurant where you can dine under the stars on fine Italian cuisine and the best Argentine steaks. More casual, buffet-style dining is on offer at the Guaycara restaurant, open throughout the day. Choose to eat local Mexican style food or international cuisine inside or outside - there's a terrace with superb views of the Bay of Napolo in the distance. In the resort's beautiful gardens, surrounded by landscaped pools, you'll discover the Snack Shack, where you can enjoy a range of light meals featuring Mexican flavors, or steaks and seafood - they're particularly proud of the clams - or just sip tropical drinks. For relaxing cocktail, or after-dinner drinks with serious style there's the Campanario Lobby bar with spectacular view of the mountains, desert and sea.

Relax in the open air and gaze up at the stars above, bright in the clear desert air. If you've come to Loreto to get away from it all you'll be pleased to know that you won't need to venture out of the resort with so many amenities on site. There's a tobacco shop, full laundry and dry-cleaning service, currency exchange and childcare. There’s even an in-house doctor for complete peace of mind. If you're going to need access to office facilities you can relax: the Loreto Baja is right up to date with internet access available as well as copiers and fax machines. The resort prides itself on catering to business conferences and large groups so there's a very high level of service. The bilingual staff is always willing to provide a customized service catering to individual needs and preferences.

Relaxing at the resort couldn't be easier. There are acres of gardens for peaceful strolling - in fact the grounds are extensive enough for a morning run if you're feeling especially energetic. Golfers will soon realize that they're surrounded by the superb Fonatur's 18-hole, par 72 course, designed by Schjetman Dantan - it really couldn't get any closer! A fully equipped fitness center caters for the serious-minded exercise enthusiast, but as you're vacation you'll probably want to take advantage of the resort's Aquatic Center and have a bit more fun burning calories. There's great windsurfing in the Bay of Cortez, or you can try waterskiing for a real speed kick. Take out an ocean kayak to explore the idyllic coves and beaches roundabout. The Loreto National Marine Park is on your doorstep with five islands to explore and crystal clear water, so the hotel is a great base for a diving and snorkeling. See shoals of colorful fish, several species of ray, beautiful corals and dive alongside the playful sea lions, graceful in the water. Anglers will be able to charter a fishing boat from the Aquatic Center or go to nearby Arturo Sport for a fishing tour with a professional crew.

Of course that white sandy beach is also perfect if all you want to do is sunbathe, potter around in the pools or play a little light-hearted beach volleyball.

When you're ready to venture out of the resort you'll have access to the nearby Tennis Center and horseback riding. If you'd rather explore on foot or by bike the desert wilderness and its strange cacti provide a fantastic contrast to the beaches. If you want to discover Baja's special history take a trip to the San Javier Mission set high in the mountains, visit the museum and admire the pre-missionary cave paintings.

The Loreto Baja hotel and resort is much more than just a beach resort: the desert and mountains will weave their special magic to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized after your stay here.