A Hidden Gem in Cabo

Photos Courtesy of ACRE Resort

A unique side of Cabo awaits at ACRE, a lush sanctuary set on 25 acres of abundant greenery tucked in the foothills of San Jose del Cabo. Unlike any other resort in the area, this quiet escape features chic treehouses, organic farms, private event spaces, and an award-winning bar and restaurant.

The grounds are full of life, yet meticulously manicured in the common areas. With architecture that blends into its surroundings, this sleek compound feels both tropical and chic simultaneously. Meander along the palm-laden paths and observe nature at its finest while birds chirp in the background and the sun glistens through the trees.

It all started when Cameron Watt and Stuart McPherson traveled from Canada to Los Cabos for a short getaway and found themselves wanting to stay forever. And stay they did, which is how ACRE turned from a dream to reality.

Drop your bags in your designated treehouse, a well-appointed safe haven with an overview of the thick greenery below and get ready to explore. No matter which treehouse you choose each includes a terrace, bathroom, closet, outdoor shower, and king-size bed with mosquito net, plus high-speed internet and a curated minibar. Every room also includes the daily ACRE Wake Up Breakfast (pastry, coffee or tea and juice) and morning yoga. Spend the afternoon walking the organic gardens and citrus groves, playing bocce ball and ping pong, or our personal favorite visiting the puppies at the animal sanctuary.

ACRE DOGS

Get to know Rachel Watt a full-time member of the ACRE team and the visionary behind ACRE Dogs – a sanctuary that houses and re-homes stray dogs and their litters. She is the perfect resource for those looking to adopt or learn about how to help save more furry friends.

Formerly a dog walker from Vancouver, Rachel arrived at ACRE ready to assist with the opening of the boutique hotel and run it as the Hotel Manager. A few months in and she was already saving puppies thanks to a friend’s introduction to a local in search of a foster for a new litter. Who knew this simple act of kindness would turn into the program it is today?

With trying to run the hotel and oversee a new batch of pups that couldn’t be left unattended, Rachel took them with her to work and in no time guests were eager to help watch over them. These days guests can lend a hand at the sanctuary to assist with the rehabilitation and socialization of animals, and of course, many travelers end up bringing home a new fur baby. With two rescues of our own, this aspect of the trip was more than tempting! Since we were not able to take on another pet we settled for walking various dogs throughout our time on property and we loved getting to know each of them individually and their unique personalities. Visiting the puppies each day was undoubtedly a highlight we won’t soon forget.

In addition to ACRE Dogs, the property hosts an animal sanctuary that’s home to lovable donkeys, mercurial miniature Pygmy goats, free-roaming peacocks and even a camel. Guests are encouraged to visit the animals at the Sanctuary located behind the Mango Orchard daily during the hours of 8 am to 5 pm.

The ACRE Academy is another program on site, although this one is designed exclusively for Acre Villa Owners. The goal is to cultivate presence through activities and education that bring back to a place of authentic creativity and a renewed sense of aliveness. Class topics include painting, sculpture, crafting and photography while Movement workshops include yoga, pilates, meditation and HIIT workouts.

CULINARY OFFERINGS

When looking for a foodie experience on property their restaurant is one not to be missed thanks to Culinary Director Arturo Rivero. With fresh ingredients, exciting flavors and a creative cocktail list you can toast to the good life, all without leaving the resort. Dishes are derived from a blend of local and global influences and served in a farm-to-table environment full of plush greenery and good vibes.

Sip and savor a nightcap or happy hour creation with their innovative beverage program, where award-winning compositions are elevated by produce grown just beyond the confines of the bar. Onsite mixologists are passionate and ready to showcase locally inspired creations right before your eyes. Join them for a mezcal tasting of their very own small-batch brand or a mixology class, the choice is yours.

During our Mezcal tasting, we learned all about their collection of four award-winning mezcals (Espadín, Cenizo, Tobalá, Tepeztate) firsthand. Each taste showcases the versatility and beauty of the agave plant. Handcrafted in Oaxaca and Durango, Mexico, every bottle of La Tierra de Acre Mezcal is an uncompromising reflection of the creator’s heritage and the land from which they came.

They exclusively work with small-batch, multi-generational family Mezcaleros in Durango and Oaxaca who focus on sustainability and the heritage of the craft above all else. Currently, they work with two amazing mezcaleros Jorge Burciaga and Honorato Cruz along with their families who have been sustainably living off of the agave plant for four generations using the same artisanal and ancestral methods that have been passed down from generation to generation. What started as a nice amenity for guests at the resort has now become a well-known brand competing with the best of the best.

Whether traveling with friends or on a couples trip, a stay at ACRE will certainly provide a new unique way of seeing Cabo. With elements of local culture intertwined with rustic luxury and a program that gives back, this property is guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime.