Casa de Maquinas: Hacienda Sac Chich

Architect Salvador Reyes Rios Rescues the Beauty in a 19th-Century Industrial Complex

Restored by Yucatan architect Salvador Reyes Rios, this 19th-century hacienda complex showcases the stunning beauty of what was once a textiles factory using traditional techniques and materials and a modern sensibility to achieve results that are both historically authentic and original in vision.  

Located in the small village of Sac Chich in the Yucatan, the home is adjacent to two acres of what were once ancient henequen drying fields used for industrial production of sisal. Surrounded by lush, tropical gardens, the original ten-foot masonry walls enclose the complex comprised of three rectangular limestone buildings, a water tower, and an 85-foot chimney. Built in 1850, the evidence of its previous utilitarian life remains along with its original colonial splendor. With soaring 26-foot ceilings, massive beams, and graceful arches and porticos, the industrial past is paired with a subtle contemporary update.

Read more about the Sea Shell Grotto in our Stories here.

Situated between the two side buildings is the open-air living room with loggia and dining pavilion surrounded by lily and fish-filled reflecting pools. From the loggia, an enclosed spiral staircase leads to a rooftop lounge and star-viewing platform. 

One of the other two buildings houses a living room, two bedrooms, and two baths, and a loft bedroom along with a colonial kitchen, while the opposite building features a dramatic central hallway and entrance to three additional bedrooms and three baths with a large master suite overlooking the gardens.

Through a beautifully handcrafted mosaic seashell tunnel from the inner courtyard, the large pool is a refreshing refuge from the heat as are the steel and bamboo pergola and water gardens with lounge areas for rest and shade. 

There's also a hidden bocce court beyond the gardens. Filled with exotic rare palms, bamboo, ginger, tropical plants, and fruit trees, the landscape is a dramatic and exotic setting that will take you back in time.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Ask about the experiences available at this and its sister property, from a traditional Mayan shaman cleansing ceremony to a mezcal tasting, Yucatec cooking class, or salsa lessons. Enjoy yoga, pilates or meditation in the gardens and exterior spaces, and private tours of downtown Merida, ancient ruins, or otherworldly cenotes.

SAC CHICH

Located in the Mayan village of Sac Chich just a half-hour from the city of Merida, you are just outside of the town of Acanceh, and just under an hour from the famous Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, Izamal and the port town of Progresso on the gulf of Mexico. 

Situated along the convent route, there are several historic convents not to be missed including Tecoh, Muni, Mani, and Ticul as well as the Mayan Site of Mayapan. The Loltun Caves and Uxmal are an hour away and you're within a short drive to the many amazing cenotes or secret caves where you can swim in crystal clear water. Cancun is a 3-hour drive.

LOCATION 

Merida, Mexico. Nearest Airport: Manuel Cresencio Rejon (Merida) International Airport. (40 mins)

BEST TIME TO VISIT:  October through May