Playa del Carmen, Mexico — Nestled between the jungle and silence, one of Juan Gabriel’s most intimate creative retreats is set for a new chapter. Xolumado, the private residence the legendary artist built in the Riviera Maya, will be converted into a luxury boutique hotel starting in 2026, following years of legal disputes that kept its doors closed.
A Sanctuary of Art and Nature
Designed by the singer-songwriter himself, Xolumado served as a personal sanctuary blending nature, spirituality, and art. The property hosted family, friends, and collaborators amid hidden gardens, sculptures of deities, and architectural details fusing Mayan, Hindu, and Michoacán influences.
After Juan Gabriel’s death in 2016, the estate entered legal limbo. A brief attempt to operate it as a hotel in 2019 was halted due to conflicts among heirs and associates. Now, with legal issues resolved, the property is poised for a revival that honors the essence instilled by the “Divo de Juárez.”
A New Chapter for Xolumado
The renovation will update its 41 villas, including the nine original cabins—one of which was the artist’s private bedroom. The rebranding emphasizes intimate luxury, wellness, art, and nature.
The name “Xolumado” was coined by Juan Gabriel in tribute to his friends José Luis Martínez and María Dolores, founders of Grupo Lomas Travel, who are also involved in the revitalization. Nearby lies another unrealized project of the artist: an entertainment venue called “Noa Noa,” which remains a nostalgic landmark for fans.
Sources close to the development confirmed the remodeling was postponed to 2026 due to ongoing investments but affirmed the commitment to preserving Juan Gabriel’s legacy while offering a unique hospitality experience in the Riviera Maya.
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