We can still remember the moment we saw it: a property at the end of the beach road at the gateway to the biosphere reserve. Back then Tulum was a row of charming but unassuming beach cabañas tucked into the jungle – and, of course, that crystal clear sea and white sand beach. The house that enchanted us was built in the 1970’s by Austrian engineer Carlos Schober, who specifically designed it to work in synthesis with the surrounding natural environment. The ingenuity of his original design has allowed us to operate sustainably to this day. Palapas and a mature coconut grove planted more than 50 years ago still shade our structure from the heat of the afternoon sun, while intentionally curved walls circulate nature’s own aircon, and natural, pure underwater streams are gravity fed into our sinks and showers. That magic doesn’t come around twice in a lifetime, so we have held it close. We’ve followed in Schober’s path, lovingly restoring this once private estate to what we proudly call “Olas” today. We truly enjoy welcoming guests and offering an authentic experience of this magical slice of paradise.

Olas is an intimate boutique hotel, a guesthouse and home, that celebrates the connection between people and nature. Every moment at Olas, from the first sip of Chiapas coffee in the morning to the last sunset of the day, is a celebration of the Tulum we know and love. When we arrived in Tulum 12 years ago we met the rhythms of the Caribbean Sea, the movement of the Si’an Ka’an reserve and the legacy of a beach house built in line with the land. Today, our property is an homage to that Tulum – a place of natural splendour with like-minded people, vibrant food, and a sustainable commitment to this part of the world.

We are located 14k from Tulum Pueblo center on the southern most part of Tulum Beach right before the Archway entrance to the Sian Kaan biosphere which is a 1.3 million acre UNESCO World Heritage Site that is renowned for its natural beauty. Taking in the coastal wetlands and shimmering lagoons, embark on a kayak trip or sunset birdwatching tour. Opt for an adventure visiting one of the local cenotes or Mayan ruins while exploring one of the most spectacular and ecologically diverse places on Earth.