By Fernanda Noriega
When Mariann Garcés told me about the way the hotel came about, I knew that I was in one of those places in San Miguel that has an inspiring story. In the 1960s, Ruth Hyba, Marianne’s grandmother, came to San Miguel de Allende and decided to put down roots here. She was an independent woman and she started a small, yet beautiful hotel on Calle Aldama. The place had been an orchid garden, much of which is still preserved in the patio where you can still see many of those striking flowers in pots, just as in many San Miguel’s homes. The hotel’s motto is clearly stated on the sign, it tells guests that it has been designed to be “your home away from home.”
With 20 rooms available, guests can choose a single or double room according to their needs. Each of the rooms has vintage-style decorations and many pieces of art and furnishings from the 60’s. Mariann explains that the hotel is one of the most welcoming you can find, but also with the most accessible prices in the city center. They also offer special rates if you plan on a longer stay in San Miguel.
The breakfast room, located in the hotel courtyard, offers lunches to both guests and the general public, from 8am-10:30am. However, in December they also serve dinner for a special New Year’s Eve evening. To make a reservation, you can call 415 152 0277.
Mariann also states that they frequently receive large spiritual groups. They also host groups of artists who come to San Miguel to create their works or to visit the Sanctuary of Atotonilco. Both Mariann and her mother, who manages the hotel, are very pleased with thse visits because on many occasions the guests buy or donate pieces of art for the hotel’s art collection.
If you are looking for a place to stay where you feel at home a few steps from the Parroquia, Hotel La Mansión del Bosque is an incredible option.
