Ron and Family were at Villa Estrella just last week. As soon as they got home, they blessed us with these wonderful words, which we just had to share with all of you, warts and all.

My wife and I spent two incredible weeks in this hidden Nayarit gem which is one of a number of properties in a gated community; an approximate 2-hour drive from Puerto Vallarta. Undoubtedly, this Villa Estrealla, designed by its owner, Ulrich and surrounded by ocean, has the best location. We fell asleep and awakened to the sound of waves and formations of pelicans flying overhead.

Rosa, the cook/maid, prepared delicious meals for us and worked with our dietary preferences (we love hot and spicy!). Ismael, the administrator responded to all our needs, including our early morning fishing trip with the ‘Reubens’ where we landed 20 barracuda, 2 mackerel and 4 white snappers, which Rosa used to make excellent ceviche and fish dinners. The beach is gorgeous but requires some planning. One needs to cross over the estuary at low tide. A tide chart was available and with minimal effort we managed to cross over on most days. It is a pristine, 12 mile long beach with more birds than humans on it. We were fortunate to see the release of baby sea turtles from the nearby sanctuary. We spent hours frolicking in the warm ocean and boogie boarding on the surf (I haven’t had so much fun in years). The main pool is not heated but was comfortable enough for our daily long swims and to attend a small aqua fitness class offered by one the residents. The smaller pool in front of the villa can be heated, and is great for night time dips under the stars.

I would be remiss not to mention that with the warm climate and water come the no see ums, pesky creatures, which did not bother me or my wife but seemed to get the upper hand with one of our guests. Nothing that a bit of bug spray can’t handle. Cellular access is spotty and internet is slow and available only at the gatehouse. We found this to be an asset and not a liability.

The meal plan is great. No worries about making reservations and going for meals. TheSunday lunch at nearby Platanitos served grilled fish, which was as good as I have ever tasted. The restaurant is a bit of a dive but it is worth going there at least once to get a feel for local life. We loved our stay at Villa Estrella and look forward to returning in the near future.