Probably the oldest hotel in Guanajuato, and certainly the best known, the Posada Santa Fe is
the place to stay in town. Not only does it house a venerable collection of the works of the
local artist and historian Manuel Leal but it also has the most desirable tables for soaking
up the local atmosphere, right on the lively Jardin de la Union. Enter the magnificent lobby
and one could be in one of the finest hotels in Mexico. Lofty beamed ceilings, delicate
chandeliers, and antique chairs all fade into insignificance alongside the giant paintings
dominating the walls. The off-lobby restaurant has the same setting, as does the lounge, with
antique chairs and couches perfect for pre-dinner cocktails. The guest rooms are approached up
a winding staircase, with a colorful tile surround. The rooms themselves vary from the high
ceiling suites at the front of the hotel to simpler decor at the back. All have a certain
charm, a slightly faded grandeur, yet updated with modern facilities. The hotel has been owned
and managed by the same family for several generations, and although there are exciting plans
for future improvements, the emphasis is on retaining the historic and the traditional. Meals
served in the restaurants are as good as the setting, and the location is the best in town.
Guanajuato itself is not short of attractions and the only problem could be trying to drag
oneself away.