Tucked into the historic centre of Merida, in the heart of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, this hotel uses ancient techniques, period details and local craftsmanship to immerse guests in the Yucatan way of life.

High ceilings and mosaic tiles from the 19th-century building’s life as a private home have been retained and added to under the guidance of architect Roger González – who oversaw the White City colonial mansion’s transformation into an adults-only, 10-room boutique hotel.

Cigno’s interiors are rooted as much in recent history as they are in ancient heritage, with González using chukum stucco – a traditional plaster made using boiled bark and cement – to add a rough-edged atmosphere to the hotel. The Mayans used a similar technique inside their pyramids.

Elsewhere in the hotel, furniture is made by local artisans using tropical wood, and blue-tiled floors – chosen to evoke the cenotes of the region – all speak to Yucatan’s unique features.

After a day reading in Cigno’s library or floating in the upper terrace pool, guests can retire to its restaurant, Cocina, for a fresh take on traditional Yucatan cuisine. The hotel offers yoga, cooking lessons, and trips to the ancient pyramids at Chichen Itza, which are nearby.

C. 66 593, Barrio de la Ermita, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

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