Hacienda Chekul is full of surprises. Architecturally impressive, it looks like a mesh of luxurious Lego cubes. It sits in solitude within the intensely beautiful, UNESCO-protected Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, ringed by jungle and neighbouring a huge white-sand beach, and yet is decidedly luxurious. It’s only 20 kilometres from Tulum’s restaurants and Mayan ruins, but feels like another world.

Found off Route 15 – an ultra-scenic dirt road along the spindly, 50-kilometre Boca Paila Peninsula to Punta Allen, a lonely, lobster-fishing village – Chekul’s six-acre estate includes hammock-lined gardens and that heavenly beach: backed by swaying coconut palms, dotted with daybeds and all yours. Alongside one of the many patios, there’s even an infinity pool on its rooftop. Soaking here, listening to tropical birds and enjoying the tranquillity and views over Campechen Lagoon, you’ll feel as though you’re in paradise.

Amid colourful, wood-lined interiors are lounges, a large dining table and the fitted, fantastic kitchen. Don’t worry about cooking, though: a private chef will prepare meals on-demand. Housekeepers and a butler also attend to you; the latter can arrange fishing charters, Tulum trips, swims in cenotes or boat tours to see Sian Ka’an’s crocodiles and monkeys.

All four ensuite bedrooms are air-conditioned – sustainably using solar and wind power – and come with mosquito screens, ceiling fans and Sky TV. Three boast king-size beds, plus an exotic outdoor shower in one case, with the fourth containing two double beds.