When you check into La Mansion de los Suenos, you’re not just greeted by the experienced and eager staff. You’re also welcomed by a dozen faces brought to life in the colourful portraits of local painter Jose Silva which cover the walls in the lovely reception area off the first of the restored 16th century hacienda’s three blood-pressure-lowering patios or courtyards. The tranquility, art collection, history, decor and level of service at La Mansion de los Suenos come to you courtesy of Priscilla Madsen, the owner and host.

You could also call her the mansion’s saviour. Only three families (including Priscilla) have owned the hacienda since it was built in the late 1600s. Priscilla bought and began meticulously restoring the property in 1998 as a way of fulfilling her dream (or...