In the heart of the picturesque village of Espita in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula sits Casona Los Cedros, an architectural gem that marries colonial heritage with contemporary elegance. Founded by architect Laura Lecué and her husband Alan Montfort, this boutique hotel offers a refined escape where tradition and luxury coexist in perfect harmony. Eight meticulously designed rooms provide intimate sanctuaries surrounded by lush tropical gardens, while the acclaimed restaurant Casona de los Cedros showcases Chef Jorge Ildefonso's masterful interpretation of Yucatecan cuisine. What distinguishes this remarkable property is not just its aesthetic beauty, but its profound commitment to cultural preservation, local craftsmanship, and authentic experiences that connect guests with the true spirit of the Yucatán.

Laura Lecué & Alan Montfort : Photo courtesy of Casona los Cedros

A VISIONARY JOURNEY FROM ARCHITECTURAL PASSION TO CULTURAL PRESERVATION

For Laura Lecué and Alan Montfort, Casona Los Cedros represents more than just a boutique hotel. With a deep appreciation for spaces that carry a sense of history and purpose, they embarked on this meaningful project after being captivated by Espita's timeless charm and rich cultural heritage.

Their inspiration came from seeing the potential in a property with stories to tell. "When I discovered Espita, I was immediately captivated by its timeless charm and the richness of its cultural heritage," Laura recalls. "As an architect, I saw the potential to restore and reinterpret this property not just as a hotel, but as a living dialogue between past and present."

"Cedros became a way to express that vision, an intimate, design-forward space that honors the soul of Yucatán."
— Laura Lecué, Owner and Architect

With passion and architectural vision, they dedicated themselves to creating a space where guests could experience the authentic essence of Yucatán. Their goal wasn't to simply provide accommodations, but to offer a profound connection to the region's cultural identity through thoughtful design and authentic experiences.

Over time, Casona Los Cedros has evolved into an intimate retreat where luxury is redefined not as opulence, but as authenticity, connection, and meaningful engagement with place and culture.

THE PHILOSOPHY OF YUCATECAN DESIGN WHERE COLONIAL MEETS CONTEMPORARY

The design of Casona Los Cedros emerged directly from Espita itself, its quiet elegance, colonial textures, and natural rhythms. As an architect, Laura wanted to preserve the essence of the original structure while reimagining it with contemporary simplicity.

Casona Los Cedros came to life as a shared vision between Laura and Alan. From the beginning, they imagined a place that would reflect the soul of Espitaits architecture, people, and traditions. They collaborated closely with local artisans: carpenters from the village handcrafted doors, windows, and furniture; a local family wove lighting from bejucos; and most materials were sourced or produced nearby.

"We let the materials speak: chukum walls, handcrafted woodwork, natural fibers, and stone—all used with restraint, to create a sense of calm and connection," explains Laura. "The idea was to design a space that didn't overpower the town's character, but rather framed it."

"What sets the property apart is this seamless blend of culture, cuisine, and place, crafted with soul and intention."
— Laura Lecué, Owner and Architect

This balance between preservation and innovation has become a defining characteristic of Casona Los Cedros, a retreat shaped by architectural expertise and a deep respect for cultural heritage.

EXPERIENCING THE AUTHENTIC RHYTHMS OF YUCATECAN LIVING AND CUISINE

At Casona Los Cedros, days unfold at their own unhurried pace. Chef Jorge Ildefonso adds his culinary genius to the story, turning Casona de los Cedros into the heart of the experience, where architecture, craftsmanship, and cuisine come together.

The restaurant celebrates Yucatecan culinary traditions while introducing subtle contemporary innovations. Ingredients are sourced from local producers, with many herbs coming directly from the property's gardens, ensuring freshness and authenticity in every dish.

For those venturing beyond Casona Los Cedros, Laura and Alan provide guidance to explore the small workshops around town: local woodworkers, hammock weavers, and families making traditional honey and herbal remedies. Every morning, the town hosts a market where local farmers and producers bring fresh, regional products, a wonderful way to connect with the community.

Meals are unhurried, guided by the rhythm of conversation and connection. You dine when you're ready, rest when you need to, and experience flavors that celebrate Yucatán's rich culinary heritage.

A SANCTUARY FOR MEANINGFUL CONNECTION WITH YUCATECAN CULTURE

What makes Casona Los Cedros truly special is the atmosphere cultivated within its walls, a space of calm, reflection, and connection to the stories of Yucatán's past and present.

The property attracts "a blend of international travelers and Mexican guests who are seeking a deeper reconnection—with culture, nature, and themselves," says Laura. "Many of our foreign visitors are on fast-paced itineraries through the Yucatán, moving from one iconic site to another, and their stop in Espita becomes an intentional pause—an authentic break where they can slow down, breathe, and truly feel the spirit of the place."

Creating this sanctuary wasn't without challenges. Working in a small town meant embracing a slower rhythm and finding creative ways to solve problems locally. But these very challenges strengthened the project.

"Collaborating with local artisans became one of the most rewarding aspects, and it taught us the value of patience and trust in the process."
— Laura Lecué, Owner and Architect

Looking ahead, Laura and Alan plan to continue growing organically, with additions like artist residencies, wellness experiences, and more collaborations with the local community. The goal is not to expand in size, but in depth and meaning, creating even more profound ways for guests to connect with the heart of Yucatán.