Reflecting the city’s Colonial elegance, San Rafael is a place of beauty and surprising seclusion, geared mainly to adults (although over 12s are welcome during the off-peak season). Step into its lushly planted, floral and fragrant courtyard and you’ll feel a million miles from the bustle beyond – this is where the morning repast is served. The bedrooms too provide an escape, with log fires, crystal chandeliers, paintings and (more) fresh flowers; there are just seven (all situated on the ground floor) and each has the aura of a Latin aristocratic mansion house.