Built in 1958, Casa Kimberly is a secluded, luxurious residence in the dreamy town of Puerto Vallarta.

On the western coast of Mexico, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the hotel plays homage to its namesake, the daughter of Hollywood stars Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.

Originally part of the family’s residence, it has since been transformed into an exclusive, sumptuous hotel, in part playing tribute to its Hollywood roots, with portraits of the couple adorning the walls.

Hotels with notable customers and interesting backstories can be trusted to provide a memorable experience - and this is certainly true of Casa Kimberly.

The love story, which defined the lives of both Burton and Taylor, as well as capturing the imagination of the public around the world, has been maintained by the very house which connected them.

Burton even had a unique bridge commissioned, connecting Kimberly and the adjoining Hacienda San Angel.

Modelled on the Bridge of Sighs in Venice, it soon became known as the Puente de Amor, or love bridge.

The bridge would serve as a passage to keep the couple’s love affair private from prying eyes, at a time when they received an incredible amount of attention from the press.

In many ways Kimberly really is a homage to the couple’s romance: when staying within the walls, you begin to feel the amorous nature of the period.

The resort offers grand views over the Sierra Madre Mountains in the near distance, or down over the delightfully quaint town of Puerto Vallarta below.

Every exclusive suite has access to a terrace, veranda, and Jacuzzi, where one can effortlessly spend many hours.

Plush king-size beds, sumptuous Italian linens, fine art, and furnishings all serve to make each suite unique – the rooms offer an extraordinary experience for each and every guest.

Indulgent baths with claw foot tubs are included in some rooms, while others offer rain showers backed by striking tile walls.

The blue tiled pool, as it was when Taylor and Burton called Casa Kimberly home, is adjacent to a shady respite.

A spacious tiled sun terrace invites relaxation with chaises for lounging, tables for lunching, and oversized umbrellas.

Classically Latin themed throughout, the Casa feels like a piece of history, and a privilege to engage with.

Kimberly has its own onsite spa, where you can unwind, in its relaxing, peaceful surroundings.

British celebrity chef, Rick Stein, recently visited Kimberly as part of his Road to Mexico series, and sampled the whimsical on-site restaurant Les Iguana.

The food is modern Mexican and comes complete with a real mariachi band playing long into the night.

If Kimberly is out your budget for a stay, a visit to the restaurant for an evening of exclusive food, music, and incredible views across the mesmerising town is well worth it. 

For a uniquely, luxurious experience, Kimberly is an exceptionally memorable location in Puerto Vallarta and a highlight when travelling through Mexico.

More Information

Casa Kimberly was a labour of love for designer and proprietor Janice Chatterton.

Nine guest suites, including the grand and luxurious Elizabeth Taylor Suite, her personal quarters, are each uniquely designed with a mix of modern amenities and traditional colonial style.

Most rooms boast sweeping views of the Banderas Bay below, the Sierra Madre Mountains behind, and the charming cityscape all around.

Find out more on the official website.

Adam Kahan