Disconnecting to reconnect

Hotel Bardo, Tulum, is more than a wellness resort. In fact, “If you arrive at dusk to Bardo, you’re not sure if you’re arriving to a ceremony or to a hotel,” says Alberto Penny Ayala, the hotel’s owner and creative mastermind, referring to the 150 hand-lit candles and wafting clouds of earthy incense that mark the transition from day to night each evening in the lush gardens.   

But while the display does as much to deter mosquitos as it does to establish mystical ambience, the blurred line between hotel and ritual extends well beyond the twilight hour here.  

The resort’s name begins to reveal its story: In Tibetan Buddhism, bardo is an in-between state that involves reflection, facing fears, and transition. “We tropicalized this way of Tibetan thinking into Mexican culture,” says Alberto, referencing the property’s Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) motifs, such as altars and skulls, as well as its Mayan healing rituals. 

Some of the guests’ most significant transformations, however, occur in the hotel’s temazcal, or “steam house,” which incorporates volcanic stones, traditional medicinal plants, and the guidance of a shaman. “Sometimes people come out crying—in a good way—because they have touched something that maybe they forgot they had,” he says. “It’s pretty beautiful.” Guests can also try a rejuvenating bath of rose petals, sound healing, ice baths and Mayan-inspired therapeutic treatments at the hotel’s Spa 13.   

With 29 secluded villas offering plenty of privacy, the adults-only resort has become a favorite among couples. Elegantly furnished with earthy tones and organic materials, and accented with handmade artisanal pieces, each villa blends outside with in, with full-length sliding doors and semi-exterior showers. “You never have to leave the room if you don’t want to,” says Alberto, with each private sanctuary also having its own pool and outdoor garden. 

For all the attention to detail (and the hotel’s consistently high rating), Alberto reveals a fascinating fact: Although he manages all creative aspects of the hotel, from design to architecture, he has no formal background in any of them. Instead, he relies on his passion for hospitality and looks for the same in potential employees. “I don’t look at resumes; I look for the most passionate people,” he says. “I don’t even see myself as a hotelier; I see myself as a creator. I like to make beautiful things, and that’s what I’m passionate about.” 

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What guests say

“My stay was amazing. I love Bardo’s vision to support people with disconnecting and being present. There were constant reminders to do that, and I left so encouraged!” 
Rachel, 2-night trip 


“Exceptional stay! From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a seamless check-in process. The room was immaculate, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure our comfort throughout our stay.” 
Shantel, 2-night family trip 


“This hotel is EVERYTHING. From the moment I got there until the moment I left, I was well taken care of. This place is a hidden gem off the beaten path. The beauty of this place is unparalleled.” 
Jon, 7-night trip