I've recently returned from a vacation in San Pancho, Nyarit, MX. I stayed at the Inn of the GataGorda. The property is spectacular, Clean, spacious, manicured grounds. The casita was the size bigger than some New York apartments. With living room, kitchen, dining area, and wonderful bedroom and bath. Our hosts, Eileen and Tori, were gracious, helpful, and very knowledgeable of San Pancho. The Inn of the GataGorda is far enough north of Puerta Vallarta to be removed from all the bustle, but close enough to visit the great shops and galleries that Puerta Vallarta has to offer. I will be returning to The Inn of the GataGorda this year and for many years to come.
Susan
New York

At the Inn of the Gata Gorda, in the village of San Pancho (San Francisco), Nayarit Province, my mate and I took a blissful two-day break from our time-share exchange at the gulag Grand Mayan/Mayan Princess in Nuevo Vallarta.
Perched on a hill in the middle of town (yes, the real Mexico is still here; definitely not Puerto Vallarta-ville), Gata Gorda's three spacious apartments and owners' quarters are beautifully designed and well appointed. Here's a gracious and calm homebase for the weary or frazzled: the terraced gardens are lovingly tended, a hilltop pool opens up to sky, palms, and flocks of birds; color drapes the senses and bolsters the spirit. Get it?
Amid the grit, the grind, and the got-to-get-there of your Mexican holiday, here's a place to stop time and feel okay about doing absolutely nothing. The units are very clean, and the beds very comfortable. The village is fine for a walk-about at any time; the beach is easy and neighborly, the surf not very gentle (but hey it's the ocean). Also, the bird-watching is fantastic. Flocks of orange-crested parakeets (I think), russet-crowned motmot, green parrots and large white (herons?) as well as others I could not identify are a real thrill to watch (bring your binoculars and fast film). Shoppers, take heart. The variety of small retailers is just fine; check our the artisans' cooperative, as well as the petite jewelry gallery on the main street. Also, a family of Huichol sells meticulously beaded creations at the little zocolo at the beach.
Gata Gorda co-owners Eileen Peirce and Tory Street are very kind and knowlegeable. You get the feeling there isn't anything they can't help you out with. They have a very special place waiting for you, so go... and you'll understand why it's rated No. 1 in the area.
If you see Miss Whiskey, their hugely fat cat/gata, give her our love....
Pelecanus
Third Tree on the Left

If your idea of a grand holiday is a relaxing stay at a beautiful, comfortable and welcoming inn in a small coastal town with great restaurants, this is the spot for you. San Pancho is a friendly, quiet town north of Puerto Vallarta. The beach is an easy stroll through town from GataGorda past charming shops (try the non-profit next to the library) and some really good eateries. Although swimming is difficult due to rough water, there were surfers and the beach is gorgeous, especially at sunset. Your swimming needs are nicely met at the inn's salt water pool-no chlorine! Our week was spent at beautifully decorated Villa V high above town with a large, breezy veranda complete with beach view. The apartment was clean, airy and set on a perfectly landscaped hillside amid cascades of beautiful blossoms. We rented a car and took a few side trips, but another time I would be happy to do without as everything is in easy walking distance. The inn offers a pick-up service from the airport which includes a stop at the grocery store and a tour of the town. Innkeepers Tory and Eileen were delightfully hospitable, helpful and make you feel right at home. Go and have a relaxing stay.

We have been back for less than twenty four hours and are missing the wonderful experience of staying at the Inn at Gata Gorda and the community of San Pancho. The reviews and description of the property are accurate and give you a wonderful sense and overall feel of the property. It is located a few blocks from town which is an easy walk but it is located on a hillside so you have a few hills and a few steps to manage. The people of the village are as friendly as you would ever hope to meet -

While staying at the Inn at Gata Gorda for a week, we did day trips to many of the other small coastal towns, and my husband and I were always delighted to return to the oasis on the hill to catch the sunset and mix up a batch of margaritas. - Be sure and try the San Pancho Cafe on the main street in town. The upstairs ambiance of dining under the giant palapa is magical and the food prepared by Chef Ruiz is out of this world. Get there before the NY Times discovers him so you can a assured of a table! - enjoy the Inn at Gata Gorda and the town of San Pancho, it is magical.

Jean & Steve
Vashon Island, WA