"A unique property with missed opportunities
Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe has a distinctive design, a beautiful setting, and a polite, welcoming staff. Unfortunately, it feels older and less maintained than I expected from the Banyan Tree name and its rates.
The architecture is memorable, but its enclosed spaces often feel more like a fortress than a place that embraces the Valle’s views. A restaurant terrace overlooking the landscape could have been a highlight. The two rooftops also have potential, yet a few chairs and cold white spotlights leave them without a clear purpose or inviting atmosphere.
The finishes do not match the ambition of the design. Window and door frames look dated and inexpensive, while the room’s lighting controls feel like they belong in the 1990s. Vegetation is taking over the room terrace, and the Cognac Room’s lighting makes a space that should feel cozy seem cold.
Despite having two pools, the pool areas offer little shade or seating and seem comfortable for only four to six guests at a time. The poolside food trucks are a nice idea, but they were closed during our visit; we had to call to have them opened.
We had a great time overall, which makes these missed opportunities all the more noticeable. The hotel has the ingredients to be exceptional, but it needs more care and attention to how guests use its spaces. At this price, it falls short of the five-star experience I expected."
