Photo: Courtesy of Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada

With its vine-draped courtyards, hand-painted tiles, and flickering lanterns, Casa de Sierra Nevada feels like stepping into a bygone era—one where time slows and every detail is quietly exquisite. Operated by Belmond and set across a cluster of 17th- and 18th-century colonial mansions, this hotel is a masterclass in preservation and elegance. Each room and suite is unique, filled with antiques, talavera tilework, and carved wood accents, all arranged around bougainvillea-lined patios and murmuring fountains.

But it’s not just beautiful—it’s deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of San Miguel. At the Sazón cooking school, guests can learn traditional Mexican recipes in a restored convent kitchen, guided by chefs who treat cuisine as storytelling. The Tunki Rooftop is one of the city’s best-kept secrets: perched above the terracotta rooftops, it offers Andean-inspired cocktails and views of La Parroquia at dusk that are nothing short of cinematic.

Throughout the property, nooks invite you to linger—by the fire, in the leafy gardens, or beside the quiet pool shaded by old stone walls. Casa de Sierra Nevada doesn’t feel like a hotel so much as a private hideaway suspended in time. It’s ideal for romantics, aesthetes, and anyone who finds joy in the texture of old stone and the hush of history well-kept.

Where to drink

Natalia López Mota of Cava Garambullo.

Photo: Emmy Hernández

Tucked away on the outskirts of San Miguel de Allende, Cava Garambullo is a biodynamic winery founded by Natalia López Mota and Branko Pjanic. Their intimate cellar offers tastings of unfiltered, organic varietals, including a refreshing pet-nat reminiscent of strawberries and cream. The rustic setting, complete with reclaimed wood planters and vintage seating, provides a relaxed atmosphere for savoring their unique blends. ​

In the heart of downtown, Octágono stands out as the region’s sole producer of natural wine in clay vessels. Led by Marcelo Castro Vera, the tasting room at Tenerías 2 offers a range of natural wines, including a silky malbec, alongside mint-infused mezcal and housemade dips like spicy chapulín paste. The eclectic ambiance, adorned with Uzbek tapestries, complements the adventurous palate of its offerings.​

A staple in San Miguel’s spirits scene, the Casa Dragones Tasting Room offers an immersive experience into the world of premium tequila. The Obsidian Bar, with its sleek design, has hosted some of the best bars in North America, providing a sophisticated setting to sample their renowned tequilas. ​

Courtesy of Bebek

Courtesy of Bebek

Perched atop Casa Hoyos, Bekeb is the brainchild of mixologist Fabiola Padilla, a Casa Dragones brand ambassador. This rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city, including the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. Bekeb’s menu features earthy, herbal cocktails crafted from Mexican spirits like sotol, raicilla, and mezcal, often infused with herbs from Padilla’s on-site garden.

Where to Eat

Photo: Courtesy of the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende

Perched atop the luxurious Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar offers panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline, including the majestic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. The ambiance is enhanced by Mediterranean-inspired décor and a menu that fuses local ingredients with global flavors. Guests can savor artisanal cocktails crafted by skilled mixologists while enjoying live entertainment on select evenings, creating an unforgettable dining experience under the stars.

Nestled just steps from the Parroquia, La Cabra Iluminada is a serene café offering a fully plant-based menu. The courtyard, shaded by trees, provides a tranquil setting for enjoying dishes like chilaquiles topped with oyster mushrooms, avocado toast, and French toast. Their specialty drinks, including affogatos and chai lattes with optional CBD drops, pair perfectly with their renowned cinnamon rolls. The café’s commitment to dairy-free offerings and its cozy ambiance make it a standout spot in the heart of the city. ​