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Inn at San Pancho, Home of the GataGorda – reviews, photos

48 Retorno Camboya, San Pancho 63732, Mexico
Hotel amenities
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63 reviews from our community

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United States
1 review
“Serenity and more...”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 28 January 2012

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!

Room Tip: If the Casita Agave is available, you'll have your own terrace with ocean views.
See more room tips
  • Stayed December 2011, travelled solo
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
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Ask Rose R about Inn at San Pancho, Home of the GataGorda
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
Franklin Lakes, New Jersey
1 review
“One of the Best vacations to Mexico”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 9 December 2011

I recently took a trip to Mexico with a group of girlfriends. I have traveled to Mexico several times before, but have never quite experienced what I did in San Pancho. I stayed at La Gata Gorda, and from the moment we arrived, I knew we had made the right choice. The inn is situated on a secluded hill, overlooking the village of San Pancho. It is conveniently located just blocks from the main street, which leads to shops, restaurants and the beach.
This trip was wonderful right from the start, and we knew we were going to be very spoiled. Our Casita was absolutely gorgeous and no detail was overlooked. The large bed with its luxurious bedding, the beautiful décor, the fully equipped kitchen,the high ceilings with large fans and the amazing views from our veranda were just a few of the touches that gave us hints of great things to come. The grounds were just as beautiful, and were designed with the same thoughtful attention to detail: The property and gardens were carefully designed, very well maintained and blooming over with beautiful flowers and tropical plants. I would have to say my favorite part of the property, aside from the stunning views of the ocean, was the blue tiled, infinity pool. We had the choice to relax on floats and marvel at the serene views above us, or had the choice to grab a clean soft towel, and relax on lounge chairs.
Eileen Pierce, the owner of the inn, greeted us with the warmth of an old friend. She gave us advice about where to shop for groceries and which restaurants to eat at when we opted to eat out.. Eileen told us that the streets were safe, the people were helpful and friendly and that the sunsets on the beach were breathtaking. We loved walking on those cobblestone streets and thoroughly enjoyed each meal, and were amazed by the vibrant colored sunsets over the sparkling sea!
Our trip was the ideal getaway, and I will forever have the best memories. For our girls’ trip next year, we plan on coming back.

  • Stayed November 2011, travelled with friends
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
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Ask Larissa P about Inn at San Pancho, Home of the GataGorda
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
Wayne, New Jersey
1 review
“RELAX * RESTORE * RENEW”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 3 December 2011

As I sit at home now, it almost feels as if the trip didn't happen, or it seems as if it were so long ago....but it did happen and it wasn't that long ago, the problem is I want to go back again and again and again!!!!! The Inn couldn't have been more beautiful, as well as the staff, and the women I traveled with. The weather was perfect, sunny skies every day and night skies that were so clear you could see every star!!!! The ocean looked to me to have flecks of gold (yes gold) floating in it...I realized it was from the sand that was golden. I have traveled often and stayed at beautiful places around the world, I would highly recommend the Inn at San Pancho. I plan on visiting again with my family within the next year. If you are looking for a place that can give you a true experience of Mexico and yet the accommodations of a 5 star Inn, The Inn at San Pancho is the place to go!!!!

  • Stayed November 2011, travelled with friends
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes
Ask Barbara M about Inn at San Pancho, Home of the GataGorda
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
Ridgewood, NJ
1 review
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
“One of My Best Vacations Ever”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 25 November 2011
2
people found this review helpful

My five-night stay at the Inn at San Pancho was one of the best vacations I've ever had. I went with a group of girlfriends and thoroughly enjoyed the inn and its surrounding environment. Eileen Pierce, owner of the inn, made us feel comfortable from the moment we arrived. The accommodations were excellent: gorgeous decor and views, comfortable bed, spotless. The pool was delightful, the landscaping beautiful and the on-site massage a special treat. Eileen was incredibly helpful directing us to excellent restaurants. The food was fabulous; expecially memorable were delicious chicken burritos while we watched a beautiful sunset on the beach at San Pancho. I recommend horseback riding on the beach, where one can truly appreciate the grandeur of San Pancho's magnificent coastline. The nearby town of Sayulita was also great for shopping, eating and swimming in the ocean. I'm going back!

  • Stayed November 2011, travelled with friends
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes
Ask Martha M about Inn at San Pancho, Home of the GataGorda
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
Montvale N.J.
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
“Tranquility for Lorraine”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 21 November 2011
1
person found this review helpful

I can't even describe how wonderful staying at the Inn at San Pancho, Home of the GataGorda made me feel. truely relaxing, refreshing body, soul and spirit.
The casitas immaculate,comfortable and scenic.
The infinity salt water pool so refreshing , the grounds beautifully landscaped.
The 5 minute walk to the beach proved to be a true experience of the local culture and the cuisine was wonderful.
The beach and sunsets fantastic!
Back at the Inn I enjoyed THE BEST MASSAGE EVER by "Fabulous Fabiola" turning me into a marshmello.
Eileen ,(The Inn Keeper) was genuine, accomodating ,caring for every need, not to mention she's very humerous !
On the top of my list for vacations !
I can't wait to return !

  • Stayed November 2011, travelled with friends
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes
Ask lo1ve about Inn at San Pancho, Home of the GataGorda
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC

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Additional Information about Inn at San Pancho, Home of the GataGorda

48 Retorno Camboya, San Pancho 63732, Mexico
Price range (per night):* INR8,337 - 12,506

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