A green oasis above
the rooftops of Guanajuato.

Once a much-loved family home overlooking the heart of Guanajuato. Now a welcoming guesthouse for travellers seeking a place with unique character.

Get in touch See the rooms

Cozy rooms opening into a lush patio and garden, with panoramic views of Guanajuato.

About us

Our Story.

Get to know the people, stories and values that make our place what it is.

Our PlaceA Hidden Oasis Above Guanajuato

Our beautiful house sits right on the ridge of Callejón del Espinazo, overlooking the historic city center of Guanajuato and the lively Las Embajadas market below. A peaceful oasis tucked away from the bustling streets of the old town, yet just a short walk from its vibrant heart.

The house features an open architectural concept with five individually designed private rooms, sharing a fully equipped kitchen and two bathrooms. All rooms are arranged around a charming patio that opens onto a terraced garden, offering breathtaking views of Guanajuato's historic rooftops and the surrounding Sierra de Santa Rosa.

Living in harmony with nature was at the heart of the design. The patio provides shaded communal spaces surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a relaxed atmosphere for sharing, connecting and unwinding. The house also embraces sustainable living, with solar-heated water and graywater recycling to help keep the garden green.

Getting here means climbing a steep, narrow cobblestone alley – a little adventure in itself! But guests agree: the climb is well worth it once they discover the beautiful terraced garden and the stunning panoramic views across Guanajuato.

Our HistoryA House Built with Love, Vision and Patience

The story of this house began in the 1990s, when Sibylle's father, Gerardo, purchased it as a ruin. A passionate nature lover, he dreamed of creating a family home where people could live in connection with nature rather than apart from it.

A physics lecturer with limited resources but endless creativity and determination, Gerardo spent the next 15 years slowly bringing his vision to life. He created a central patio, transformed the steep terrain into a terraced garden, built two water reservoirs to collect and reuse wastewater for irrigation, and planted countless native cacti, trees and flowers. His personal touch could be found throughout the house: a love of European antiques, inspired by his years studying in the US and Europe, blended with a deep appreciation and pride for Mexico's indigenous heritage.

Sadly, Gerardo passed away unexpectedly in 2015, before he could complete his life's work.

In 2020, his daughter Sibylle, who lives in Germany, returned to Guanajuato with her family to continue what her father had started. Together with her husband, their two young sons, and the support of many local and international friends and helpers, they embarked on an ambitious renovation. Working around the clock, they restored and extended the house, brought the beautiful terraced garden back to life and made it accessible to everyone. They also introduced a solar water heating system and an improved graywater recycling system to further reduce the house's environmental footprint.

Today, Sibylle and her family still consider this place their home. They return whenever they can and take great joy and pride in sharing it with guests from all over the world – people looking for more than just a place to stay: a home away from home, filled with history, character and a deep connection to its surroundings.

Our TeamThe People Behind the Guesthouse

Sibylle is a trained biologist who grew up in this very house. Today, she splits her time between Germany and Mexico, maintaining a close connection to the place and its history. She takes care of special projects, always looking for ways to make the house an even more welcoming and sustainable place.

Andrea is the heart and soul of the day-to-day operation. Based at the house, she is in guest communication and warmly welcomes guests, looks after their needs and makes sure everything runs smoothly.

Elena takes care of keeping the house neat, clean and welcoming, ensuring that guests can enjoy a comfortable and pleasant stay.

Our PhilosophyWhere People, Nature & Cultures Come Together

The philosophy of our place is deeply rooted in its history and in the personal values of Sibylle and her family.

We believe that encounters with people from different backgrounds and cultures enrich our lives. Having had the privilege of traveling and working around the world, we know what it means to be welcomed by strangers, offered shelter and supported by people along the way. We want to give something of that kindness back.

Our wish is to offer more than just a place to stay: a welcoming space to recharge, connect with others, make new friends, discover new perspectives and create experiences that make life a little richer.

We also believe in feeling free, grounded and connected to the natural world around us. We want to create a place where people can slow down, enjoy the outdoors and feel at home in nature. At the same time, we strive to live responsibly, minimize our ecological footprint and make thoughtful use of the resources around us.

Rooms

Above it all. New perspectives from our individually designed rooms.

Our five rooms are accessed via a spacious, light-filled central staircase, crowned by an impressive traditional Mexican brick cupola.

Ground floorBiblioteca

Elegance & Character

The most elegant room in the house, Biblioteca combines generous space and high ceilings with the timeless charm of antique furniture. A beautiful chandelier, vintage mirror, bookshelf and cupboard give the room a distinctive atmosphere.

Large double doors open onto a Juliette balcony overlooking the patio, with beautiful panoramic views across the rooftops of Guanajuato. The room features a comfortable double bed, a cozy sofa and a desk with chair – offering plenty of space to relax, read or get some work done.

  • Double bed
  • Sofa
  • Desk area
  • Dresser
  • Juliette balcony overlooking the patio
  • Panoramic views
  • International books
  • Towels
  • Wi-Fi
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1st floorPetirrojo

Room to Relax

Named after the robin, a charming bird and overwintering visitor to Guanajuato, Petirrojo is the most spacious of our five rooms. It features a comfortable king-size bed and a sofa bed, making it a great choice for couples, a small family or three friends traveling together.

The room is furnished with a wardrobe, mirror, sofa and table. Its large front-facing window fills the space with natural light and offers lovely views over the terraced garden and the rooftops of Guanajuato.

  • King bed
  • Sofa bed
  • Wardrobe
  • Table
  • Mirror
  • Panoramic views
  • Towels
  • Wi-Fi
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2nd floorCapulinero

Above the Clouds

Named after the Gray Silky-flycatcher that visits our garden, Capulinero makes you feel almost like a bird yourself – perched high above the city, close to the clouds.

Located on the top-floor, this spacious and light-filled room offers spectacular panoramic views of our terraced garden, the historic rooftops of Guanajuato and the surrounding mountains. It features a comfortable double bed and a cozy sofa, as well as a beautiful wooden desk and fast Wi-Fi – making it an ideal spot for remote work, creative inspiration or simply unwinding above it all.

  • Double bed
  • Sofa
  • Desk
  • Wardrobe
  • Panoramic views
  • Towels
  • Wi-Fi
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2nd floorColibrí

A Little Room with a Big View

Named after the hummingbird, Colibrí is a cozy and intimate room, perfect for solo travelers or couples looking for a peaceful retreat above the city.

Located on the top-floor, it offers the highest vantage point in the house. From its charming Juliette balcony, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views high above the patio, across the rooftops of Guanajuato and toward the surrounding mountains.

Despite its compact size, Colibrí has everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a desk and fast Wi-Fi – ideal for remote work, quiet moments or simply enjoying the view.

  • Double bed
  • Desk
  • Wardrobe
  • Juliette balcony
  • Panoramic views
  • Towels
  • Wi-Fi
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2nd floorPerlita

Small & Charming

Named after the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, a small and lively bird known as Perlita in Spanish, this cozy little room is a simple and comfortable retreat on the top-floor.

Compact but thoughtfully furnished with all the essentials, it is ideal for solo travelers or couples who appreciate a quiet, intimate space. Its window looks out toward the charming Callejón below, offering a glimpse of everyday life in this historic corner of Guanajuato.

  • Double bed
  • Wardrobe
  • Desk
  • Faces the callejón
  • Towels
  • Wi-Fi
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Whole houseThe Entire House

Your Own Private Oasis

Enjoy the whole house exclusively for yourselves! All five individually designed rooms, the central patio, terraced garden, fully equipped kitchen and both bathrooms are yours to enjoy.

With space for up to 13 guests across five bedrooms, the house is ideal for family reunions, group getaways or friends traveling together. Share meals in the kitchen, relax in the lush garden, enjoy the panoramic views or simply make yourself at home in your own private oasis above Guanajuato.

Whether you're traveling as a big family or a group of friends, you'll have plenty of space to come together – and room to retreat whenever you need it.

  • Up to 13 guests
  • 5 bedrooms
  • 2 full bathrooms
  • Full kitchen
  • Patio
  • Garden
  • Panoramic views
  • Towels
  • Wi-Fi
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Shared Spaces

Come Together & Feel at Home.

Find your calm — and a few new friends — in the house's Shared Spaces. From the fully equipped kitchen to the leafy patio, terraced garden and bathrooms, these spaces invite you to relax, enjoy the outdoors, share a meal and connect with fellow travelers.

The PatioA Shady Spot Above the City

The green and pleasantly shaded heart of the house, our patio is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment. Located right next to the kitchen, it features a large communal table where you can have breakfast, share a meal, enjoy a coffee or simply hang out.

One level above the terraced garden, the patio opens up toward the rooftops of Guanajuato, offering lovely views of the city while keeping you tucked away in a cool, leafy oasis.

  • Dining table & chairs
  • Surrounded by lush vegetation
  • Pleasant shade on hot days
  • Panoramic views

The GardenA Little Oasis of Nature

Our terraced garden is a peaceful green retreat, full of character and life. Find a shady spot in the hammock to read a book, roll out your yoga mat on the grass, or relax under the pergola with a drink while enjoying the panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Huge cacti, blooming bougainvilleas and mature trees planted by Gerardo decades ago create a home for native plants and wildlife. On most afternoons, hummingbirds and butterflies flutter between the branches, bringing this little oasis to life.

  • Quiet and shady hammock cove
  • Pergola
  • Huge cacti and trees
  • Hummingbirds & butterflies most afternoons
  • Panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains
  • Watered with recycled graywater & rain

The KitchenCook, Share & Enjoy

Our fully equipped kitchen is shared by all guests and designed for much more than just preparing breakfast or reheating leftovers. Whether you're staying for a few days or several weeks, you'll find everything you need to enjoy proper home cooking. Pick up fresh ingredients and local specialties at the Mercado Embajadoras just down the street and turn them into something delicious.

The kitchen also offers seating with beautiful panoramic views over Guanajuato and the surrounding mountains – a lovely spot to enjoy a meal, share a coffee or simply take in the scenery.

  • Oven, microwave, fridge, coffee maker
  • Kettle & blender
  • Plenty of utensils & crockery
  • Dining table and seating
  • Panoramic views

The BathroomsComfort with a Mexican Touch

The house has two full shared bathrooms, one on each floor. Both feature traditional Mexican pottery and colorful tiles, adding a touch of local character to your daily routine. Each bathroom is equipped with a shower and solar-heated hot water.

Fresh towels and a hairdryer are provided. A washing machine is also available for guests, making longer stays even more comfortable.

  • 2 full bathrooms
  • Solar-heated water
  • Hairdryer
  • Towels included
  • Washing machine available
Activities

An excellent base to experience Guanajuato.

Whether you're here to explore Guanajuato's rich history, learn Spanish, focus on your studies or remote work, or head outdoors for hiking and rock climbing – discover what Guanajuato has to offer and why our house makes a great base for it all.

Sightseeing & RelaxingExplore the City, Unwind in the Garden

A UNESCO World Heritage city full of color, culture and surprises, Guanajuato is made for exploring on foot. Wander through narrow cobblestone alleys lined with colorful colonial mansions, discover the fascinating network of underground streets, or soak up the atmosphere at Jardín de la Unión and the magnificent Teatro Juárez. Or make your way up to El Pípila for breathtaking panoramic views across the city's colorful rooftops and surrounding hills.

As evening falls, enjoy dinner at one of the city's beautiful plazas or join a traditional callejoneada – a lively procession through the winding alleys filled with music, local legends and laughter.

Why Garden Villa Guesthouse?

Just a 15-minute walk from Jardín de la Unión or the famous El Pípila viewpoint, our house is perfectly located for exploring Guanajuato on foot. Museums, theaters, restaurants and colorful plazas are all within easy reach.

The lively Mercado Embajadoras is just around the corner, offering fresh local produce and a taste of everyday Mexican life.

When it's time to slow down, leave the bustle behind and retreat to our lush patio and terraced garden. Enjoy a quiet moment in the hammock, practice yoga on the grass or take some time to meditate surrounded by greenery, birdsong and panoramic views across the city. Whether you're looking to recharge after a day of sightseeing or simply enjoy a slower pace, Garden Villa offers the space to relax and reconnect.

Learning Spanish & StudyingDiscover New Cultures, Expand Your Horizons

Guanajuato is a vibrant university town with several well-established Spanish language schools offering everything from small-group classes to one-on-one lessons. Many are located in charming converted colonial houses, while the city's lively student scene, cafés and plazas provide endless opportunities to practice your Spanish beyond the classroom.

The city is also home to the renowned Universidad de Guanajuato, attracting international students for study-abroad programs and exchange semesters.

Why Garden Villa Guesthouse?

Our location makes it a convenient base for both language courses and university life. Most Spanish schools and the university are just a 15–20 minute walk away. Whether you're staying for a few weeks or an entire semester, you'll have more than just a place to sleep: a comfortable room with a proper desk and fast Wi-Fi for studying, plus a peaceful garden and shady patio to unwind after class. A place where you can focus on your studies while enjoying everything Guanajuato has to offer.

Remote WorkWork, Create & Recharge

Guanajuato is an emerging destination for remote workers, offering a unique blend of authentic Mexican culture, vibrant city life and an inspiring creative atmosphere. While dedicated coworking spaces are still relatively scarce, the city offers plenty of cafés and lively spots to work from.

Why Garden Villa Guesthouse?

At Garden Villa, you don't have to search for a suitable workspace or compete for a table and a power outlet. Every room comes with its own desk and fast Wi-Fi, giving you a comfortable space to focus and work. When you need a change of scenery, take your laptop to the patio or terrace and enjoy a video call with panoramic views over the city and mountains.

And when it's time to step away from the screen, our peaceful garden, lush greenery and inspiring surroundings offer the perfect setting to recharge, let your thoughts wander and spark new ideas. A place where productivity and creativity go hand in hand with relaxation and a little inspiration.

Hiking & Rock ClimbingExplore the Outdoors

Guanajuato is surrounded by beautiful hills and volcanic landscapes, with hiking opportunities right on the city's doorstep. Climb La Bufa for impressive views over the historic center, or explore Cerro de la Sirena (2,404 m), the highest peak surrounding the city. Several trails lead to its summit, where rugged volcanic terrain, native vegetation and a spectacular panoramic view await.

For climbing enthusiasts, La Bufa is also an established sport-climbing area overlooking Guanajuato, with dozens of routes across several sectors. Its striking rock formations rise above the city and are visible from many parts of Guanajuato.

Why Garden Villa Guesthouse?

Located on the hillside above Las Embajadas, our house makes a convenient base for exploring the surrounding hills on foot. After a morning hike or an afternoon of climbing, return to a solar-heated shower, a shady garden and a relaxing hammock. The perfect combination of outdoor adventure and a peaceful retreat above the city.

Reviews

What Our Guests Say.

A glimpse into the experiences of guests who have stayed at Garden Villa Guesthouse.

4.9Communication
4.9Cleanliness & accuracy
4.7Location
>550Reviews

Real, current ratings from Airbnb & Google. Superhost, hosting since 2020.

"Such an incredible place — a beautiful room with a lovely view over the city, and just a few minutes away from the centre. Sibylle and Andrea were great communicators and helped us with all our random questions! Would 100% recommend to anyone wanting to visit Guanajuato."

— Sian, Wellington, New Zealand · Airbnb, July 2026

"Clean, comfortable, and in a superb location near the Mercado Embajadoras. The view is absolutely stunning — it's worth the walk up the callejón! The outdoor seating area is so pleasant, I can't think of a better way to enjoy my morning coffee. I definitely will be back!"

— Lesley, Albany, New York · Airbnb, March 2026

"For my studies, I stayed in Guanajuato for more than 4 months. I booked two weeks with the idea of moving elsewhere after — but this place is so beautiful and relaxed that I stayed the entire period. The kitchen has everything you need, the garden is amazing, and the view is breathtaking. Whenever I come back, I'll book here again."

— Thijs, Google review · stayed 4+ months

"You can truly feel the care, creativity, and vision that went into transforming what was once a ruin into such a unique and beautiful space. The terraced garden is absolutely magical, and the commitment to sustainability — solar-heated water, graywater recycling, rain collection — adds another layer of respect for both nature and the spirit of the home."

— Mad Bee, Local Guide · Google review
Location

In the Heart of Guanajuato, Above the Bustle.

Set on the hillside above Mercado Embajadoras, Garden Villa is just a short walk from Guanajuato’s historic center, yet feels like a world of its own. Enjoy panoramic city views from our lush patio and terraced garden, then retreat to the peace and quiet of a good night’s sleep.

Getting here

  • From the airport León-Guanajuato (BJX)~40 min by taxi
  • From the Central Bus Station~15 min by taxi
  • The taxi drops you off at the bottom of the callejón at Agua Fuerte. From there continue uphill on foot.

Important note: Access only via a narrow and a partially steep callejón. No vehicle and wheelchair access. Heavy luggage cannot be rolled, but must be carried for a large part of the way.

Getting around during your stay

  • Mercado Embajadoras (food stalls & groceries)5 min walk
  • Main plaza (Jardín de la Unión)~15 min walk
  • University of Guanajuato~20 min walk
  • El Pípila monument~15 min walk
  • La Bufa trailhead~30 min walk

Address & contact

  • Address Del Espinazo 52, Zona Centro, 36094 Guanajuato, Gto.
  • Phone +52 473 597 5128
  • Email [email protected]
Get in Touch

Two Ways to Book – Choose What Works Best for Your Stay.

Staying for up to 6 nights? Find your room and book directly through Airbnb.

Airbnb offers live availability and up-to-date pricing, making it easy to find the right room and secure your stay in just a few clicks.

Find rooms on Airbnb

Staying for 7 nights or more, planning to work remotely, or interested in booking the whole house? We'd love to hear from you.

For longer stays, remote work, whole-house bookings and individual arrangements, booking directly with us is the way to go. You can avoid Airbnb's service fees and enjoy personal communication with us from the start. Just send us a message – we'll get back to you personally, usually within 24 hours.