Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort Invites Guests to Discover a Side of Mexico Rarely Experienced by Travellers This Mexican Independence Weekend
This Mexican Independence Weekend (September 12–15, 2026), Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort will celebrate the depth of Mexico's heritage by welcoming acclaimed chefs and local practitioners for a series of exclusive experiences that immerse guests in the traditions, flavours and stories that have shaped the country for generations. Set across 48 acres (19 hectares) of coastal forest on a private peninsula overlooking the Pacific, the adults-only resort is an intentionally intimate retreat with only 15 ocean-view tented bungalows, where each stay invites a deeper connection to nature, culture and community.
Throughout the weekend, Chef Mario Borja, chef-owner of Puerto Vallarta's acclaimed Cha' and NUMŌH, Chef Oscar Torres of Michelin-starred Animalón and regional artisans join the Naviva team to bring Mexico's culinary traditions to life through a series of shared experiences. From learning about the craftsmanship behind raicilla and gathering around the table for la sobremesa to exploring the healing botanicals native to the region, each experience offers guests a deeper appreciation for the people and traditions that continue to shape Mexico today.
"The most memorable moments of travel are often the ones you don't plan for," said Eduardo Sampere, General Manager of Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort. "A story shared over dinner, meeting someone who has dedicated their life to a craft, discovering a tradition you've never encountered before. This weekend is designed around those kinds of encounters and the opportunity to experience Mexico through the people who know it best."
Like every stay at Naviva, Mexican Independence Weekend unfolds as part of the resort's all-encompassing experience. Every gathering is included, allowing guests to move effortlessly from one moment to the next, following curiosity as shared meals, conversations and discoveries shape the rhythm of the weekend.
El Origen and La Sobremesa — Saturday, September 12
- The weekend begins with El Origen, an intimate introduction to raicilla, one of western Mexico’s most treasured agave spirits. Gathered around Naviva’s own distillation oven, guests join a local maestro raicillero as agave hearts slowly roast over fire, discovering the craftsmanship behind the storied spirit that have been passed down for generations.
- That evening, chefs Mario Borja and Oscar Torres, will host an intimate collaborative dinner inspired by one of Mexico's most cherished traditions - La Sobremesa. More than the end of a meal, la sobremesa is the time when conversation lingers, stories are shared and the focus shifts from the food itself to the people gathered around the table. Reflecting the spirit of this enduring ritual, the evening invites guests to slow down and savor the moment while further connecting with others.
Entre Gallos, Botánica De Naviva and Cocina Libre – Sunday, September 13
- The following morning, Chef Mario Borja hosts Entre Gallos, a countryside-inspired breakfast rooted in the traditions of rural Mexico. Set just outside of Naviva’s premium restaurant Cocina Copal near the garden grotto, guests discover the flavors and unhurried rhythm of a countryside morning while surrounded by Naviva's lush tropical landscape.
- Later that afternoon, Botánica de Naviva explores the scents, symbolism and botanical healing traditions native to Mexico. Guided by Naviva's resident botanist guests will create blends personalized to their preferences and intentions.
- As the sun sets, Chef Borja brings the philosophy behind his acclaimed restaurant NUMŌH to Naviva with Cocina Libre. Rooted in a free approach to cuisine, the menu evolves with the season’s ingredients, celebrating creative freedom, spontaneity and the joy of gathering around the table.
Raíces – Monday, September 14
- On Monday evening, Chef Oscar Torres of Michelin-starred Animalón presents Raíces, an intimate dining experience rooted in Mexico's rich culinary heritage. Guided by seasonality and craftsmanship, each course reveals the stories behind the ingredients while offering a contemporary perspective on the traditions that continue to inspire his cooking.
Feria Mexicana – Tuesday, September 15
- The weekend concludes on the eve of Independence Day with Feria Mexicana, Naviva's own interpretation of a traditional Mexican feria. Regional dishes prepared by the Naviva culinary team, handcrafted cocktails, live music and nostalgic moments inspired by beloved Mexican traditions create an evening of vibrant celebration, inviting guests to experience the warmth and generosity at the heart of Mexico's Independence Day festivities.
Throughout the weekend, connection becomes the thread that ties each experience together, connection around the table, to knowledge preserved across generations and to the people who continue to shape Mexico’s culinary culture today. By gathering alongside chefs and artisans and, guests leave with more than memories of a celebration — they leave with a deeper understanding of the flavors, rituals and traditions that reveal a side of Mexico rarely experienced by travellers.
For reservations or more information on Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, please call +52 329 291 6100 or book online.
