Hacienda El Aguacate

Regenerative Architecture in Querétaro

Hacienda El Aguacate is the personal vision of architecture studio GOMA. The project has transformed a 19th-century mill ruin into a radical contemporary home within a 30-hectare ravine in Querétaro. Interior design by Patricia Hirschfeld complements the raw stone with refined touches, including a striking gold-leaf dining room.

Built as a private retreat for the architects themselves (and featured in Architectural Digest), the hacienda operates with a deep respect for its history and landscape, a process of careful restoration rather than total renovation. The hacienda features two pools, including a 25-meter ridgetop pool and another set within the original foundations.

This former 19th-century mill was reimagined by its owners, architects GOMA, as a personal project exploring minimal intervention. Their design philosophy preserved the historic stone structures, acting only where the land was already impacted. The result is a profound dialogue between the ruin’s memory and a contemporary, low-impact design that feels both ancient and entirely new.

Inside, Patricia Hirschfeld’s design continues that conversation. Spaces are defined by original stone walls and timber-beamed ceilings, while recycled wood was used to create additional sleeping lofts. Modern comforts are integrated seamlessly, and the centerpiece is a dining room clad in gold leaf—a surprising and playful touch of glamour, set against the hacienda’s rustic soul.

The 30-hectare estate is a private, restored ecosystem in a remote ravine. Two distinct aquatic experiences are on offer: an intimate pool and jacuzzi nestled in the romantic ruins, and a 25-meter lap pool built on an upper ridge with 360-degree views of the semi-desert landscape. Private trails wind through the property, past reforested ash and willow trees and a reactivated alfalfa field.

What we love

Instead of erasing the past, the design embraces the beauty of decay, creating a romantic tension between the raw ruin and the refined interiors. The two pools offer brilliantly different moods: one is a secret, historic hideaway, while the other is a bold, panoramic statement piece.

Layout

This vacation home for rent in Querétaro sleeps up to 18 guests. The home is organized across two natural terraces.

Upper level: Kitchen, dining room, living room (with full bathroom), TV room, plus four bedrooms (one king, two kings each with two additional singles on mezzanines, one bunk with two singles). Each bedroom has a full bathroom.

Lower level: Two bedrooms, one with two bunks (four singles), one king. Both have full bathrooms. The lower terrace holds the original foundations, where a courtyard pool and hot tub are cleverly integrated among the ancient walls.

Experiences

Guests can enjoy a game of paddle on the private court or play on the five-a-side soccer field. The property’s restored river system offers opportunities for fishing, while extensive private trails are perfect for walking and discovering the unique, regenerated landscape of the ravine.

Good to know

Hacienda El Aguacate is located in a remote ravine, and a 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended. The property is spread across multiple levels connected by outdoor paths and stairs, which may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.

Amenities and services

Two swimming pools, a small chapel that can be used for any type of ceremony or even yoga, hot tub, private paddle court, soccer field, wifi, fully equipped kitchen, indoor fireplace, private trails, river fishing, cleaning staff

Around

Set in the municipality of Ezequiel Montes, the hacienda is a perfect base for exploring the unique landscape and culture of Querétaro. The region is famous for being Mexico’s second-largest wine-producing area, with numerous vineyards offering tours and tastings. The magnificent Peña de Bernal, one of the world's tallest monoliths, is a short drive away for hiking and exploring the designated Pueblo Mágico (magical town) at its base. The historic city of Querétaro, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers rich colonial architecture and vibrant markets.