I was reading on a search engine that starts with the letter, G' that the Hacienda Chenche de las Torres was or is a dude ranch. Ah no. It's not a dude ranch but a straight up legit European castle in thr Yucatán. It's about 1 hour 19 minutes away from downtown Merida and is a perfect weekend getaway for a picnic. Tip 1: Bring a blanket and picnic basket. The Hacienda has wide open spaces and there very few visitors. Tip 2: There are multiple bathroom facilities but if you like your own supplies, bring what you need Tip 3: Plan on spending the day here. It's a 2 hour 30 minute round trip. It makes no sense to stay for an hour. Here la the story. The property was founded during the 1800s was owned by Alvaro Peon de Regil and a Joaquina Peon Castellanos. They were the count and countess of Miraflores. The property was left abandoned by the Manzanilla family in the1950s. The current owner has worked with anthropologist Michel Kopla to restore the property The original man house was modified to resemble a European castle from medieval times. There are towers, gardens, fountains, but no moats or dragons. There are some familial crests on the towers and I have captured the chests in one of the many photos. Walking the grounds, feeling the breeze, you would never think that you were in the Yucatán or even México. It's strikingly beautiful and enchanting. Wait wait wait. Before you go inside, there'll be a nondescript fellow who will ask you if you want to walk the grounds. It's like 50 Pesos, he's not overly friendly but he's more of guardian / caretaker than a guide. Once you've paid your entrance fee, check on the chapel to the left before making your way to the front doors Tip 3: You cannot go inside so don't bother asking. Even though you can't go inside, there are no rules about peering or gawking like I did through the windows and doors. Check out the bedroom accesible through the walk around the back. There are stone lions and one iguana. Make sure not to trip over the iguana as he doesn't move for anyone. I walked down some steps into another courtyard and reflected about the people who previously walked there. I imagined servants or even royalty stepping where I was retracing their steps. The flora and fauna are all photogenic and I captured some in my images. In summary, the Hacienda Chenche is a must visit day trip and I wouldn't be surprised if it held private parties from time to time. It's a stunning, exquisite location that is charming, regal and mysterious. I can't wait to go back with my French baguette sandwiches and a nice bottle of wine in my picnic basket. read more

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