Cuixmala: The Legend
“Cuixmala's philosophy has not changed except that we are now open for rental,” says Marcaccini, perhaps wondering whether her father would be turning in his grave at the idea of strangers posting selfies from his beloved estate, or whether he’d be vaguely amused by the fanfare. “We try to give guests the feeling they are on a big ranch or estate rather than in a hotel or a resort.”"You can basically do whatever you like, except swimming in the crocodile lagoon, that's strictly off limits"
Casa Cuixmala at night. Photo: Courtesy of Cuixmala resort
James Goldsmith, corporate raider and pioneering eco-warrior. Photo: Courtesy of Cuixmala
Casa Cuixmala, an opulent mix of Mexican, European and Moorish design, was Goldsmith’s own home. As well as incredible ocean views and a dramatic staircase to an infinity pool on the beach, it has 11 luxury suites – four within the main house and seven in adjoining bungalows that can be rented individually.There are a further three fully staffed private villas available to rent and then the casitas – one-and two-bedroom suites which once housed Goldsmith’s pilots, doctors and other members of his travelling staff. The casitas share a resort pool, clubhouse with a restaurant, bar and billiards room.“Sir James was extremely well connected,” explains Hudson. ‘He knew all the heads of state, prime ministers and business leaders. And they would all come to stay with him here.” Flying into Cuixmala along with his revolving cast of wives and mistresses were high profile friends including Richard Nixon, Henry Kissinger and Ronald Reagan, who came both to brainstorm and relax."Goldsmith was well known for his complex domestic arrangements: three marriages, eight children and countless affairs"
Alix Marcaccini with her husband Goffredo and child at Cuixmala. Photo: Courtesy of Cuixmala
A true piece of jungle paradise, Cuixmala was until recently a relatively unpublicised secret, attracting just friends of the family and elite, in-the-know travellers. People who’ve visited over the years include Madonna, Mick Jagger, Gwyneth Paltrow, Seal and Heidi Klum, but in the days before social media it felt more like stumbling across an other-worldly hideaway than a holiday destination.Today for practical reasons – namely it is enormously expensive to run the place and also farm-to-table works better if there is actually someone at the table – they aim for higher occupancy, and attract a wider audience of glittering nomads, while managing to retain the elusive charm.The calendar highlight has always been Alix’s New Year’s Eve party – an event that perfectly epitomises the laidback but luxurious spirit of Cuixmala. The all-night event takes place on the beach in front of Casa Cuixmala and includes dinner around the pool, live music, fireworks, a bonfire and dancing until the sun comes up. And everyone is invited.During the holiday season, she invites her friends from all over the world who mix with celebrities (Gael Garcia Bernal is a regular) and ordinary paying guests who are lucky enough to secure a room. “There is a very festive house party kind of vibe going on during that time,” confesses Hudson. “The whole thing is spectacular and Alix is the perfect hostess.” Plus no one feels the need to brag that they were there. Her father would have been proud."People who've visited over the years include Madonna, Mick Jagger, Gwyneth Paltrow, Seal and Heidi Klum"