Our Favorite Vacation Rentals, A Series • The Cave Room in Puerto Vallarta
Nestled high in the treetops of Puerto Vallarta's Romantic Zone, The Cave at Marcela Resort and Spa is a true hidden gem. We stumbled upon this breathtaking retreat on Airbnb, but you can also book it directly through the property. With a unique blend of luxury and nature, The Cave offers an experience like no other.
As you approach this incredible room, you'll find yourself walking past waterfalls cascading into a serene koi pond. The soothing sound of rushing water accompanies you as you enter the open-air man-made cave with multiple living trees rising through its center. This cave isn't your typical subterranean dwelling; it's an open-concept living, dining, and sleeping space with a kitchenette, a commercial-grade kitchen on a separate level, and a private hot tub on a rooftop terrace that overlooks Old Town Puerto Vallarta.
One of the standout features of The Cave is the small bedside waterfall that you can control, turning it on or off at your leisure. Why would you ever want to turn it off, though? The gentle flow adds a calming touch to your stay, making relaxation effortless.
We visited this paradise in January, and the natural breeze that wafts through the open-air space was perfect. However, for those warmer days, there's an AC unit by the bed that ensures your comfort. The Cave also includes a full-size washer and dryer and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the hot tub on your private rooftop terrace is nothing short of perfection. The memory of us lying in the super comfortable king bed, catching up on the latest episode of Ozark, with fireworks lighting up the sky right in front of our bedroom opening, is etched in our hearts as one of our all-time favorite moments.
Marcela Resort and Spa isn't just about The Cave. The boutique resort offers a series of connecting pools, a spa, and a fantastic restaurant. While all the food we tried was exceptional, the smoked tuna ceviche was a standout.
For those who enjoy golf, there's even a PGA-designed putting green on-site, though we must admit we didn't take advantage of it during our stay. The resort's amenities are top-notch, ensuring that you're never short of things to do and enjoy.
One thing to keep in mind is that this elevated paradise involves some climbing, especially if you decide to walk into town. But trust us when we say the breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences are well worth the steps.