When restoration began, the Hacienda San Jose was little more than a shell. Turning this to their advantage, the architects had more freedom to create the most luxurious and intimate of the three sister hotels. San Jose is exceptionally pretty, with colorful gardens in the central courtyard and pretty pastel blue facades. Around the perimeter of the buildings are lawns and orchards, with many of the rooms opening to secluded gardens and plunge pools.

Inside, the suites are furnished in a simple but stylish manner that brings out the beauty of the natural materials - warm wooden beds, smooth ceramic basins and cool tile floors. Each room is equipped with cable TV, air-conditioning, servibar and direct dial telephone. Small touches are pleasing; fresh flowers and fruit on arrival, pretty bathroom accessories and very soft towels.

The fifteen suites and rooms are arranged in groups, following the lines of the original constructions. Thus the main building now houses three rooms, including the Cuarto del Patron. A further three suites were created from the lofty machine house, and three more were originally the steward's house. The remaining two suites were once the old coach house. Four new rooms called Mayan Villas were constructed in the style of a traditional Mayan house.

Each group of rooms has its own character, and the division also makes the Hacienda ideal for small groups. Families or friends choosing two or three rooms together with often be delighted by extended communal areas screened from the other sections of the hotel.