Other than sleeping, we’re betting that Pablo did a little more in this former den of debauchery. Today though, it’s a brand-new luxury boutique hotel in Tulum. No kingpin vibes included. This is a first look at Casa Malca.
Really, Pablo Escobar Did Sleep Here
When a drug lord is looking for his next hideaway, certain factors are considered before landing a spot. Firstly, while not a necessity, comes the consideration of luxury (and Escobar made sure his drug deals were carried out in style in his new mansion). Then there’s privacy: when you’re in the field of shady business and have enemies dedicated to your demise, the more secluded the property, the better. Escobar’s former home sits between the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve’s jungle and a private white-sand shoreline. In other words, Casa Malca is the perfect place to disappear.
After Escobar died in 1993, the mansion was abandoned and became government property. Nearly two decades later, art dealer Lio Malca turned the hideout into a luxurious boutique hotel, adorned with his most precious art collectibles. Some artworks include pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, and Kaws. In 2015, Malca opened the artsy boutique hotel to the public.
Accommodation
The rooms and suites at Casa Malca have the vibe of your cool artist friend’s elegant loft space. Equally spacious and cozy is hard to do, but Casa Malca makes it happen.
We think Escobar would approve of plush velvet headboards that climb to the top of the ceilings, jewel-toned carpets and curtains, and antique furniture pieces. Five suite options factor in the view and number of guests, with 70+ rooms in total. All rooms have king-sized beds; some offer a balcony, a private terrace, double-height ceilings, and rain showers.
Dining
All dining options are locally sourced. So, whether you opt for contemporary international food at Philosophy, contemporary Asian at Ambrosia, or grilled treats at Head of a Madman, you’re guaranteed a taste of Mexico too. Philosophy carries on the rustic romanticism of the suites into the indoor and outdoor dining areas with chandeliers and dim lighting, while Ambrosia exhibits Malca’s quirky side. The restaurant is full of colors, with furniture upholstered in Keith Haring designs. Head of a Madman, named after a Basquiat, is where you go for all grill and firewood-related meals. You’ll want to wash down your meal with a nightcap — consider the Haring Bar, covered in original Haring Tokyo Pop Shop wallpaper and a room dedicated to velvet and chandeliers.
Activities & Wellness
The Calma Spa at Casa Malca is in an unconventional spot—the mansion’s rooftop. But Malca may be onto something, because rooftop access also means stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. You can choose from their hydrotherapy, ritual, and massage options, some of which include the Antioxidant Chocolate Body Wrap and the Four Hands Signature massage, performed by two masseuses simultaneously. Other spa highlights include locally made hammocks by the pool, an underground grotto, and a private beach.
FAQs
Q: What are the opening hours of Calma Spa at Casa Malca?
A: The spa is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Q: What are the food offerings at Head of a Madman?
A: The restaurant offers grilled seafood, meats, and veggies along with a Pizzas da Vinci menu with wood-fired pizza options.
Q: Does Casa Malca offer day passes for the beach club?
A: There is a separate entrance for day guests to purchase day passes for the private beach.
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