Entire home
Romantic Zone, best location; with daily maid and cook service included!
Photo gallery for Romantic Zone, best location; with daily maid and cook service included!





Reviews
9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
6 bedrooms 7 bathrooms Sleeps 12 557.4 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
- Malecon10 min walk
- Playa de los Muertos10 min walk
- Los Muertos Pier10 min walk
- Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco (PVR-Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Intl.)9 min drive
Rooms & beds
6 bedrooms (sleeps 12)
Bedroom 1: El Arbol
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2: Tapanco
1 King Bed
Bedroom 3: Obelisco
1 King Bed
Bedroom 4: El Pueblito
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 5: El Rio
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 6: El Rio
2 Single Beds
7 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 2
Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 3
Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 4
Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 5
Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 6
Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 7
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Romantic Zone, best location; with daily maid and cook service included!
Villa Leonarda is a riverfront property located at the heart of Puerto Vallarta in the artsy neighborhood known as Gringo Gulch, just a few blocks from the Romantic Zone and Playa Los Muertos. Local hardwoods, adobe bricks and handcrafted tiles make up the organic structure of the house where period pieces of furniture alternate with artwork signed by renowned Mexican contemporary artists.
The Villa consists of two buildings one with 3 bedrooms and the other with two bedrooms, each with ensuite bathrooms, separated by the heated swimming-pool, and a large spacious central patio surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, enhanced by the sound of the river rushing by.
It is ideal for sunbaths and pool parties during the day, and candlelit dinners and cocktail parties at night.
A very historic home from the early days of Puerto Vallarta, designed in the traditional colonial style, with all rooms opening onto a huge central courtyard with heated pool, fountains and gardens that overlook river, mountain and jungle.
Ocean views and sunsets can be enjoyed from the expansive rooftop terrace.
Three foot thick stucco walls, arches, high ceilings, trestle doors, hacienda style wooden shutters, antique wrought iron and vintage handmade tiles are the distinctive design details of this century old master piece. The villa has been completely renovated in recent years; the bedrooms have air conditioning, kitchen and baths have been updated - all while retaining the integrity of the original architecture.
The romantic bedrooms are hung with flowing mosquito netting; the decor is eclectic and chic. Antiques and unique period pieces are mixed with imported furnishings and original paintings by famous artists, all set against large palms and dramatic lighting. The ambiance at night is often described as “magical”.
The original owner, Xavier de la Torre, was a famous clothing designer close friends with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Villa Leonarda was a celebrity hangout during the 1960’s and the mystique lives on; it is still a gathering place for artists, writers, movie stars and intellectuals. Angelica Huston and brother, Danny Huston, have attended VIP cocktails hosted at the villa for the Puerto Vallarta Film Festival, following in the footsteps of their famous director father, who used to play poker with friends around the pool. Internationally acclaimed artist Alejandro Colunga and photographer Gabriel Figueroa, Jr. are also frequent guests at the villa.
Property includes:
-5 bedrooms each equipped with A/C and ensuite bath
-Huge central courtyard with heated pool, fountains and lush gardens
-Chef services available upon request
-Breathtaking views of river, mountain and jungle
-Large Rooftop sundeck with ocean views, perfect for sunset
-Impressive art collection; designer furnishings and antiques
- Charming staff with many years of experience
- Wireless internet
- Maid service daily except Sundays and holidays.
- Great central location in the heart of Old Town Puerto Vallarta, within blocks of world class dinning, shopping and popular Los Muertos Beach. Three blocks to the Malecon boardwalk and main plaza.
- Climbing Puerto Vallarta’s hills is not necessary at this villa; Leonarda is located on a flat street next to the Rio Cuale in the center of Old Town.
- Kid friendly, few stairs
-Rate includes cook service for breakfast or early lunch. Tips and cost of groceries and beverage are not included. A menu of traditional Mexican food is available for you to chose
- The perfect venue for events and weddings, please inquire as an event fee applies
* The 6th bedroom will be offered when there are over ten guests.
The Villa consists of two buildings one with 3 bedrooms and the other with two bedrooms, each with ensuite bathrooms, separated by the heated swimming-pool, and a large spacious central patio surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, enhanced by the sound of the river rushing by.
It is ideal for sunbaths and pool parties during the day, and candlelit dinners and cocktail parties at night.
A very historic home from the early days of Puerto Vallarta, designed in the traditional colonial style, with all rooms opening onto a huge central courtyard with heated pool, fountains and gardens that overlook river, mountain and jungle.
Ocean views and sunsets can be enjoyed from the expansive rooftop terrace.
Three foot thick stucco walls, arches, high ceilings, trestle doors, hacienda style wooden shutters, antique wrought iron and vintage handmade tiles are the distinctive design details of this century old master piece. The villa has been completely renovated in recent years; the bedrooms have air conditioning, kitchen and baths have been updated - all while retaining the integrity of the original architecture.
The romantic bedrooms are hung with flowing mosquito netting; the decor is eclectic and chic. Antiques and unique period pieces are mixed with imported furnishings and original paintings by famous artists, all set against large palms and dramatic lighting. The ambiance at night is often described as “magical”.
The original owner, Xavier de la Torre, was a famous clothing designer close friends with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Villa Leonarda was a celebrity hangout during the 1960’s and the mystique lives on; it is still a gathering place for artists, writers, movie stars and intellectuals. Angelica Huston and brother, Danny Huston, have attended VIP cocktails hosted at the villa for the Puerto Vallarta Film Festival, following in the footsteps of their famous director father, who used to play poker with friends around the pool. Internationally acclaimed artist Alejandro Colunga and photographer Gabriel Figueroa, Jr. are also frequent guests at the villa.
Property includes:
-5 bedrooms each equipped with A/C and ensuite bath
-Huge central courtyard with heated pool, fountains and lush gardens
-Chef services available upon request
-Breathtaking views of river, mountain and jungle
-Large Rooftop sundeck with ocean views, perfect for sunset
-Impressive art collection; designer furnishings and antiques
- Charming staff with many years of experience
- Wireless internet
- Maid service daily except Sundays and holidays.
- Great central location in the heart of Old Town Puerto Vallarta, within blocks of world class dinning, shopping and popular Los Muertos Beach. Three blocks to the Malecon boardwalk and main plaza.
- Climbing Puerto Vallarta’s hills is not necessary at this villa; Leonarda is located on a flat street next to the Rio Cuale in the center of Old Town.
- Kid friendly, few stairs
-Rate includes cook service for breakfast or early lunch. Tips and cost of groceries and beverage are not included. A menu of traditional Mexican food is available for you to chose
- The perfect venue for events and weddings, please inquire as an event fee applies
* The 6th bedroom will be offered when there are over ten guests.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
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House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 12:00 PM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Babysitting services available at an extra charge.
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
No additional accomodation/ sleeping arrangements
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Pet fee applies. Staff not responsible for pets.
Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Only outdoors, no smoking indoors.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 12
Note from host: No additional accomodation/ sleeping arrangements
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
We should mention
A car is not required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Puerto Vallarta
Located in Downtown Puerto Vallarta, a neighbourhood in Puerto Vallarta, this villa is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Cruise Ship Terminal and Nayar Vidanta Golf are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Playa de los Muertos and Bay of Banderas. Travelling with kids? Consider Los Arcos, or check out an event or a game at Act ll Entertainment Stages. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
What's nearby
- Cuale Island - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
- Malecon - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
- Playa de los Muertos - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
- Los Muertos Pier - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
- Camarones Beach - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- La Cappella - 3 min walk
- Restaurant Iguana - 1 min walk
- Tintoque - 4 min walk
- Pollo Feliz - 5 min walk
- Vallarta Factory - 2 min walk
Frequently asked questions
About the host
Hosted by Jeff Castaneda

I was born in Mexico City, says our host, but from an early age I moved here, right after my mother died. It was my uncle, Xavier de la Torre, who brought me to Vallarta to live with him.
The fame of Xavier de la Torre grew when pictures of Elizabeth appeared in Vallarta displaying their designs.
Xavier was very close to Rock Hudson, an endearing friend of Elizabeth, so it was not long before she also became part of her uncle’s group, an incredibly creative man and a celebrity in Vallarta. From fashion to interior design and from there to sculpture or cooking. Everyone knew him and he knew everyone. His home (Villa Leonarda) was a true creative mecca.
Fairy godmother
My relationship with her was very special and unique, explains Sergio. How did she become my godmother? In a very natural and innocent way. One day, my uncle showed me a picture of her and commented: Look Sergio, your godmother. I just smiled and answered: Yes, I want Elizabeth to accompany me on my First Holy Communion. He replied: Very well, the next time you see her, ask her if she wants you to be her godson. And so it was. The desire of the little boy became a reality in a mass officiated in the Parish of Guadalupe, in front of a few assistants. She asked me to call her “madrinita” which is little godmother. No one else call her that, just me, Sergio remembers.
Would you like to know more? Continue on the link below ...
https://www.villaleonarda.com/libro-amarillo/
The fame of Xavier de la Torre grew when pictures of Elizabeth appeared in Vallarta displaying their designs.
Xavier was very close to Rock Hudson, an endearing friend of Elizabeth, so it was not long before she also became part of her uncle’s group, an incredibly creative man and a celebrity in Vallarta. From fashion to interior design and from there to sculpture or cooking. Everyone knew him and he knew everyone. His home (Villa Leonarda) was a true creative mecca.
Fairy godmother
My relationship with her was very special and unique, explains Sergio. How did she become my godmother? In a very natural and innocent way. One day, my uncle showed me a picture of her and commented: Look Sergio, your godmother. I just smiled and answered: Yes, I want Elizabeth to accompany me on my First Holy Communion. He replied: Very well, the next time you see her, ask her if she wants you to be her godson. And so it was. The desire of the little boy became a reality in a mass officiated in the Parish of Guadalupe, in front of a few assistants. She asked me to call her “madrinita” which is little godmother. No one else call her that, just me, Sergio remembers.
Would you like to know more? Continue on the link below ...
https://www.villaleonarda.com/libro-amarillo/
Why they chose this property
I often wonder when Vallarta’s destiny was written, says Sergio. Could that has been when Tennessee Williams wrote The Night of the Iguana imagining a magical place in Mexico? or when John Huston decided to film the movie at the port? Or when Elizabeth decided to accompany her husband during the filming? Anyone who has been the true detonator, the history of the port changed forever.
Of course, don’t forget the unique geography of this place. It’s one of the most beautiful bays in the world. The water is temperate, the sierra – which ends at the sea – is majestic and its inhabitants are extremely friendly, Sergio describes with great pride. In the end I think that everything contributed to create the myth of Puerto Vallarta.
Located in downtown Vallarta, in the colorful and lively area known as Gringo Gulch, Villa Leonarda is a quiet oasis for a perfect vacation in a casually stylish ambiance.
Built alongside the Cuale River, home to majestic iguanas, egrets and parrots, this rental villa, ideal for a family or a group of friends, is within walking distance from the boardwalk and main beaches, terrific restaurants and quaint shops. Imbued in a star-studded history, the house consists of two buildings where period and custom-designed furniture pieces alternate with artworks signed by renowned Mexican contemporary artists.
Three dining areas and a high-ceiling living room with a fireplace complement five spacious, well appointed rooms, with their whimsically decorated bathrooms. Once a favorite hangout for Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, today Villa Leonarda offers all the comforts of world-class accommodations.
Of course, don’t forget the unique geography of this place. It’s one of the most beautiful bays in the world. The water is temperate, the sierra – which ends at the sea – is majestic and its inhabitants are extremely friendly, Sergio describes with great pride. In the end I think that everything contributed to create the myth of Puerto Vallarta.
Located in downtown Vallarta, in the colorful and lively area known as Gringo Gulch, Villa Leonarda is a quiet oasis for a perfect vacation in a casually stylish ambiance.
Built alongside the Cuale River, home to majestic iguanas, egrets and parrots, this rental villa, ideal for a family or a group of friends, is within walking distance from the boardwalk and main beaches, terrific restaurants and quaint shops. Imbued in a star-studded history, the house consists of two buildings where period and custom-designed furniture pieces alternate with artworks signed by renowned Mexican contemporary artists.
Three dining areas and a high-ceiling living room with a fireplace complement five spacious, well appointed rooms, with their whimsically decorated bathrooms. Once a favorite hangout for Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, today Villa Leonarda offers all the comforts of world-class accommodations.
What makes this property unique
Villa Leonarda is an oasis in the middle of the City. When looking from the outside you never imagine what's hidden behind its walls.
One of the great classic villas from the jet set days of the 1960s, recently updated with an urbane sophisticated style and upscale art and furnishings, Villa Leonarda evokes a glamorous age when Hollywood ruled Puerto Vallarta. Behind the stately hacienda walls, you will step into a magical world of beauty, charm and grace.
Villa Leonarda offers a unique experience that connects with the City history in a traditional Mexican architecture but renewed, fully equipped to provide a comfortable and sophisticated stay.
My uncle Xavier was of the zodiacal sign Leo, so all his friends always gave him figures of lions. That’s why he named his house “Villa Leonarda”. And although it has undergone some transformations, now it is the oldest one that exists in Vallarta. The house was abandoned some time after his death. I came from time to time, but on one of those occasions the house wouldn’t let me go. Elizabeth used to visit his house regularly. I remember returning from school and there they were all gathered talking. They could be Richard, Elizabeth, Xavier and Burt Lancaster, for example.
In addition to being an extraordinary designer; he had an outstanding talent to create friendly atmospheres, to cook and to decorate, -the reason why the meetings were always made in Villa Leonarda-. He was a splendid host. There is even a very interesting anecdote about the property. According to my uncle, one day Richard offered to buy it because, apparently, he always liked it more than the one he inhabited, to which Xavier responded in a friendly but definitive manner: Look Richard, you have fame, private plane an extraordinary career and, especially Elizabeth Taylor, but this house will never be yours.
One of the great classic villas from the jet set days of the 1960s, recently updated with an urbane sophisticated style and upscale art and furnishings, Villa Leonarda evokes a glamorous age when Hollywood ruled Puerto Vallarta. Behind the stately hacienda walls, you will step into a magical world of beauty, charm and grace.
Villa Leonarda offers a unique experience that connects with the City history in a traditional Mexican architecture but renewed, fully equipped to provide a comfortable and sophisticated stay.
My uncle Xavier was of the zodiacal sign Leo, so all his friends always gave him figures of lions. That’s why he named his house “Villa Leonarda”. And although it has undergone some transformations, now it is the oldest one that exists in Vallarta. The house was abandoned some time after his death. I came from time to time, but on one of those occasions the house wouldn’t let me go. Elizabeth used to visit his house regularly. I remember returning from school and there they were all gathered talking. They could be Richard, Elizabeth, Xavier and Burt Lancaster, for example.
In addition to being an extraordinary designer; he had an outstanding talent to create friendly atmospheres, to cook and to decorate, -the reason why the meetings were always made in Villa Leonarda-. He was a splendid host. There is even a very interesting anecdote about the property. According to my uncle, one day Richard offered to buy it because, apparently, he always liked it more than the one he inhabited, to which Xavier responded in a friendly but definitive manner: Look Richard, you have fame, private plane an extraordinary career and, especially Elizabeth Taylor, but this house will never be yours.
Languages:
English, Spanish
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