Cala de Mar Resort & Spa Ixtapa, Ixtapa-Zihuatenejo, Mexico

A Romantic Hide-Away

By Lynn Walker

GET ACQUAINTED
Nestled atop a hillside of the Sierra Madre Mountains, with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll discover Cala de Mar Resort & Spa Ixtapa. The terraced landscape of this intimate resort allows every guest to luxuriate in the breathtaking views from the private plunge pool on the open-air terrace of their suite. Escape from the crowds and experience the beauty and romance of this magical destination.Steeped in the culture and traditions of Mexico, this 5-star resort takes pride in welcoming their guests into their home and introducing them to some of these traditions.

HERE’S THE SCOOP
Ranked #2 of ‘The Top 10 Resort Hotels in Mexico’ by Travel & Leisure’s World’s Best Awards, the property exudes exclusivity. With only 59 suites, guests will revel in the attention to service and detail with a dedicated assistant to pave your way. Once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave and if it weren’t for the charm of the area, there would be no need. The resort features four enticing restaurants, each showcasing tempting specials and spectacular views. Amp up the passion by having your personal assistant plan a romantic dinner for two or breakfast on your private terrace and then allow you to take it from there. Relax and unwind at the Spa at Cala de Mar which offers signature wellness treatments that incorporate local herbs, flowers and fruits used for centuries by traditional healers.

BIG DAY DETAILS
Cala de Mar is the perfect location for an intimate wedding for two, or you may want to include your closest family and friends (up to 120) to share in your special day. Allow the staff to take the stress out of planning by offering:

• Pre-wedding activities such as spa services, a sunset cruise, or a golf outing
• A wedding planner to assist with all of the planning details
• A variety of distinctive wedding venues
• Customized wedding and catering packages
• Group rates for wedding guests staying at the hotel

OUT AND ABOUT
For those who love to adventure, there’s an endless list of activities on and off the water to take advantage of. If you enjoy cooking or trying new foods, make arrangements for a private culinary experience that will give you a true taste of the area. You’ll begin with a trip to the local market with one of resort’s chefs who will lead you in selecting the freshest ingredients. Once you return to the property, you’ll prepare a traditional Mexican dish and cocktails. Other activities you won’t want to miss:

• Deep sea fishing then dining on your catch after culinary staff expertly prepare it
• Biking through the nearby nature reserve
• Observing the annual whale migration
• Horseback riding in the lush countryside and along the beach at Playa Larga

WE SIMPLY ADORE
Tying the knot at Cala de Mar Resort & Spa Ixtapa allows the bride and groom to draw on inspiration from Mexican traditions and trickle the magic into their special day. Try incorporating the following ideas into your celebration for a one-of-a kind experience:

• Mariachis playing at the end of the ceremony or during the reception
• A gift of 13 gold coins from the groom to the bride during the ceremony, symbolizing financial responsibility for the family
• Encircling the couple in a lazo (rope) following the coin ceremony to call attention to their eternal union
• Two bridal bouquets-one for the bride and, in certain Christian ceremonies, one for the Blessed Virgin as an ofrenda (offering) to obtain a blessing on the marriage

calademar.com