Mexican history spans four periods from Amerindian (before 1521) when the Aztec and Maya empires held sway, through the bloody exploits of the Spanish conquistadores and on to Independence and then Democracy (as a republic, since 1921). A brief period from 1910-1921 was marked by social turmoil and populist governments and a number of plantations were seized. The Hacienda (then called Hacienda de Santa Cruz) was spared only after the German owner flew a German flag and dared anyone to intrude on pain of death.

MAHAKUA-Hacienda de San Antonio (great community) was opened as an Amanresort in October 2000. The elegantly restored, 19th Century casa grande was originally built by German planter Arnoldo Vogel and his Mexican wife, Clotilde Quevedo de Vogel. The resort is set in manicured grounds and looks onto a spectacular active volcano. A large working aqueduct provides year-round water for the formal gardens inspired by Spain's famed Alhambra Palace where, along with fig and cypress trees are garden plants like the blue agave, from which tequila is made.

The Hacienda occupies a generous 470 acres within a 5,000 acre working ranch that includes an organic farm and coffee plantation. The Hacienda is tucked away in the high country of Western Mexico, about 200km south of Guadalajara. Between MAHAKUA-Hacienda de San Antonio and Colima, the state capital, lie several traditional villages.

All the suites are located in a two-storey wing with its own private courtyard. A broad, winding volcanic-stone staircase connects the two floors and their 25 suites - some with balconies and views, others on the ground floor with direct access to the gardens. Each suite has its own name - the three Grand Suites are called Volcán, Sol and Quetzal - and its own theme. Some of the rooms are designed around the tapestries of the region or its charreada while others incorporate pre-Columbian legends and Spanish discoveries.

Suites: Suites are 540-640sq feet with large adjoining bathrooms, high, vaulted ceilings and fireplaces. Each suite has either a terrace or balcony with varying views of the estate or French doors opening onto the gardens.

Grand Suites: The three Grand Suites (Volcán, Sol and Quetzal) come with a large and comfortable living room and the Sol and Quetzal have an adjoining balcony. These suites offer about 1,350sq feet of space with interiors reflecting the lifestyle of a gracious mansion.