I went to Mexico looking for something and I found it on a hilltop Inn with fabulous views of the Pacific. San Pancho is a safe, friendly town with excellent food and services, cobblestone streets to explore, quaint shopping and a smiling, accommodating host at the Inn of San Pancho, home to the Gata Gorda.
The Gata Gorda with its tasteful decor, casitas flooded with sunlight, lush, manicured landscape and beckoning infinity pool managed to make this tired city girl feel renewed and at peace. Add in the Pacific Ocean at a quick 5-block walk promising stellar viewing of sunsets and I was sold.
Just a 40 minute drive from Puerto Vallarta airport, the way to this little town includes opportunities to stop at large supermarkets for supplies. And you should stock up, a fully-equipped kitchen is waiting for you and once you enter San Pancho, you’ll be hard pressed to leave. There was plenty of great food at local restaurants (average dinner about $12), in case you felt lazy.
Comfortable beds, discreet yet friendly housekeeping make your stay a luxury. Speaking of, I inquired after any spa services and my host Eileen quickly recommended her masseuse, Fabiola. A 90-minute massage cost about $38. Under the thatched palapa roof of the Inn’s Papagayo casita with Fabi’s capable hands, fragrant oils, light music and ocean breezes through a window, I was in heaven. I immediately made plans for a second message before my departure! Manicures and Pedicures are also available at the casita.
What I will remember from my stay was the serenity achieved by cooking simple meals, petting the darling “gata gorda” the fat cat in residence, spectacular sunsets, friendly locals, the waves on the beach, and this charming Inn with helpful host. I recommend the Gata Gorda to everyone!
