Garza Blanca Resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

For a winter getaway, it’s hard to beat Puerto Vallarta and the newish Garza Blanca Preserve Oceanfront Resort & Spa (www.garzablancaresort.com) is one of the best lodges in town. It’s located on prime real estate at the edge of Banderas Bay, about a ten-minute taxi ride from the downtown action.

Meredith (my daughter) and I found a deal on Groupon and flew off to enjoy this posh resort for three days of non-stop pampering.

The resort caters to a variety of clients… We met honeymooners, families with young children and several groups of ladies celebrating bachelorettes, girlfriend getaways and of course, mother/daughter bonding! There are two pools with plenty of space for all and while the beach isn’t huge, it’s private and just about perfect. Meredith and I decided the lounges next to the warmer infinity pool (by the beach bar) suited us just fine.

We booked the all-inclusive rate (about $150 more per night per room) and were very happy with the offerings. Margaritas and snacks from Aquazul Beach Bar, conveniently located between the infinity pool and the beach, were whipped up with fresh ingredients and delivered quickly.

Breakfast is served at Blanca Garza restaurant and while the service seemed slow at first, we quickly realized that the emphasis was on relaxation. Slow down and enjoy, ladies… This restaurant also serves dinner with a nice selection of seafood and other specialties.

We’re still talking about the Michelin quality dinner we had at the resort’s Bocados STK. The mountaintop eatery was designed with meat-eaters in mind, with an emphasis on high-grade steaks – all marinated and dried for at least 21 days in a special fridge. The menu also features fresh fish including soft shell crab and several varieties of salmon. 

   

Our room was spacious, with a spa-quality bathroom featuring a separate shower, tub and double sinks. When the sun sets, there's no better place to be than on the balcony to soak up picturesque views of Banderas Bay from the comfortable hammock on our balcony.

We didn't visit the spa, but reports from other guests were positive. Next time...

Would we go back to Garza Blanca? Of course. In fact, we’re hoping to return with our whole family next Christmas.