Casa de Piedra Solferino

A Return to the Ancient Art of Mayan Stone Masonry

When a New York City design firm and some local craftsmen in Quintana Roo collaborated to build a "House of Stone," they stopped short of nothing to make their masterpiece worthy of its moniker.

First, consider the façade, made of reclaimed Vista Maya stone that dates back to the pre-Columbian era. It’s made even more distinct with the surrounding jungle that frames it. Or the bleached concrete staircase with its elegant, inlaid ribbon of stone that tumbles down and twists around the home’s perimeters in beautiful ways. The artistry culminates in several open stone showers.

The minimalist interiors showcase local craftsmen and artisan talent: a woven lampshade here, an Acapulco chair there, hammocks made of natural materials hanging in the living room.

Spaces for peace and opportunities to connect with nature approach you at every turn, as the home lies within the Yum Balam Flora y Fauna Nature Reserve, on two acres with gardens and a 4 by 12-meter swimming pool. Casa De Piedra Solferino offers plenty of space and tranquility for you to recenter and connect with nature. Meet your friends under the grass zacate roofs and stay awhile.

This villa in Quintana Roo consists of two structures, together featuring three bedrooms and five bathrooms. In the main stone house, you’ll find the spacious Vista Maya Suite, with a five-meter-high ceiling, king-size bed, and a loft area that can be used for yoga, exercise, or extra sleeping space. It also has a spacious bathroom with an open shower.

A zacate roof crowns the Palapa Suite, which has a queen-size bed, and bathroom with an open shower. There is a small seating area with two chairs and a table, perfect for writing in your journal or on a postcard to a friend. Slide past the glass door and you’ll be on the rooftop terrace, overlooking the pool and garden.

The second standalone structure is Casita Jardin, framed by blooming plants and trees. It has a full-size bed, suspended day bed, a table and a bathroom with an outdoor shower. The simple kitchen extends outward onto a large space covered by the palapa.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Basic wifi, hot water, essentials, towels, bed sheets, soap, toilet paper, ceiling fan, washer in the building, table or desk with space for a laptop, private chef is available throughout your stay upon request and for an extra fee.

AROUND

Just outside of the secluded property is a world of nature, featuring excursions to El Corchal Cork Forest, bird watching (on your own or guided), and nature walks and hikes.

The property is close to the road leading to Chiquila (15 km from Solferino), from where a short ferry ride takes you to beautiful Isla Holbox. Further inland and within a two-hour drive, you can explore the Yucatan peninsula's unique treasures, including Mayan ruins, historic Valladolid, and a multitude of cenotes.