A sense of history invades the leafy courtyard, which is accessed via heavy brass-studded doors and a beamed entrance hall.

Terraces of checkerboard tiles surround the atrium and a stroll around these walkways reveals many enchanting surprises; a suit of armor points the way to the bar and it's almost plausible that the ancient cash register by the restaurant will rattle into action and deliver your change.

Amidst these antiquities, the hotel's travel agency brings you quickly back to the twentieth century. A wide range of tours can be booked here, with excursions to Chichen Itza, Uxmal and beyond. Car rental can also be arranged at the hotel.