Hotel Casa del Sotano

Built in the late 18th century as a private residence, Casa del Sotano’s deep ochre facade with chipotle-red trim, wrought-iron, lantern lights, and rustic timber signage exudes timeless Oaxacan charm. Interiors also feel like a colonial time capsule as solid stone walls mingle with hand-painted concave ceilings and chandeliers. The hotel envelops a terraced courtyard with a stone pond and fountains set among lush greenery -- all framed with vine-wrapped wrought-iron balustrade. It’s an enchanting colonial-meets-rustic scene that guests truly relish. Exterior corridors (providing access to rooms) feature high, hand-embellished ceilings and alcoves containing old religious artifacts that only add to the scene. Upstairs, the rooftop offers up a tranquil perch with cafe tables and chairs surrounded by fuchsia bougainvillea in terra-cotta pots. From here, guests can take in breathtaking views across the city in every direction. Other than the passing road traffic, the hotel is removed from tourist bustle and all rooms are set back off the road which means peace and quiet are the norm. 

Casa del Sotano resides on a wide thoroughfare in close proximity to many city sights. A six-minute walk takes guests to famed Santo Domingo, which is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and traffic-free streets perfect for meandering. It’s a four-minute walk to San Felipe Neri church, eight minutes to Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude, and seven minutes to the Museum of Contemporary Art. The Zocalo (the city’s main square), is 10 minutes’ walk, and a multitude of museums, galleries, restaurants, and bars are within easy walking distance as well. Markets -- Benito Juarez, Mercado de Artesanias (artisans), and Mercado 20 de Noviembre (food) -- are all within close proximity of one another, 10 to 12 minutes’ walk away. While the property is walkable from sites, it is located up a slight hill, a detail that could effect those with mobility issues. Oaxaca International Airport is a 25-minute drive away.

Unfolding over three levels (accessed by stairs), guest rooms are available in Single, Double, and King categories, which vary in layout, but are largely modest in size. A rustic colonial feel plays out across all categories, and while rooms are simply decorated, they possess Old World Oaxacan charm. Exposed timber-beam ceilings, terra-cotta-tiled floors, and solid sandstone walls are common elements. Dark timber furniture (work desks, armoires, and headboards) complements the warm, neutral color palettes blending soft yellow walls with subdued Mexican bedspreads and earthy tones, like burnt orange and rust. Done up in hand-painted tiles and rich Mexican hues, bathrooms are pretty but rather cramped to the extent that many feature teeny vanities outside the bathroom. And while the sinks are lovely, with ceramic basins, they’re tiny and a tad awkward. French doors open onto Juliet balconies, which on lower levels observe the picturesque courtyards, and on higher levels towards the rear, take in spectacular views of Oaxaca City to the mountains. Rooms are thoughtfully set away from the road, so street noise isn’t an issue, and light sleepers should be happy here.  All rooms are equipped with cable flat-screen TVs, telephones, hairdryers, ceiling fans, safes, free bottled water, and a basic selection of free individual toiletries. 

While the Hotel Casa del Sotano doesn't offer the most robust list of features (a pool is notably missing), it does have a few nice on-site amenities, especially given its small scale. The breakfast restaurant here showcases scenic mountain views and authentic local dishes. A little cafe/ lounge bar is also located on the premises. (It was closed during our visit but past guests seem to enjoy the homemade bites on offer.) There’s also a rather sprawling rooftop terrace with dining tables and chairs available for guest use -- and 360 degree views of the city that are quite spectacular. Wi-Fi is officially offered in public spaces, but does extend to some rooms, although it’s not guaranteed. Be aware that staff speak little to no English, which can be a little challenging for non Spanish-speaking guests.