Villa Leonarda Famous Artsy Vintage Hollywood

Description from the owner

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. Convenient location of easy access at level street without having to climb up stairs on the street.

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-ceilinged 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.

THE VILLA IS AVAILABLE AT FOUR- OR FIVE-BEDROOMS RATES

Built in the traditional Mexican Colonial style, with whitewashed adobe and red brick walls, formidable hardwood beams and red tile roofs, this riverfront property is a haven of tranquility. Once you close the massive wood door, a sensuous calm surrounds you. Still, among the luscious greenery of the patio you may hear the church bells in the distance or the river rushing by.

Villa Leonarda is the recreation by present owner Sergio Toledano of a favorite hangout for Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, John Huston, Rock Hudson, Burt Lancaster, Peter O’Toole and other movie legends, friends of clothes designer and host par excellence Xavier de la Torre. A sophisticated and well-read man born in the DF, Xavier had discovered this jewel on the Pacific coast a few years before the filming of Night of the Iguana. When he bought Villa Leonarda in the 1950s, it was one of the oldest standing buildings in Vallarta, with the original structures going back to the late 1800s. Seduced by its whitewashed adobe walls, hardwood beams and red tile roofs, Xavier refurbished the property and installed colorful tile floors, built the bathrooms and worked his magic throughout the two buildings divided by the large patio and pool area.

Sergio Toledano, his nephew, has maintained the atmosphere that charmed the celebrities whom he knew so well. He remembers director John Huston spending the afternoons in the villa playing poker, and recalls asking Liz—who was probably wearing one of uncle Xavier’s creations—if she and Richard would be his godparents for Holy Communion. In fact when the paparazzi chasing Liz and Richard spread the rumor that the glamorous couple had adopted Sergio, Puerto Vallarta was catapulted to fame and on the road to become the world-class destination it is today.

Time has gone by but the magic of the place still exerts its power, and today Villa Leonarda welcomes the traveler who wishes to experience the beauty of Puerto Vallarta surrounded by the fascination of these old walls and the warmth of the Mexican people that has captured the imagination of many.Read more

Additional Location Information

Set along the coast of the Mexican Pacific and framed by the Sierra Madre Occidental, Puerto Vallarta is found in BahĂ­a de Banderas, one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Rich in biodiversity, this destination preserves the best of our traditions in the charming atmosphere of a typical Mexican town.
Vila Leonarda enjoys a privileged location on one of the most picturesque streets in the downtown area, in the legendary Gringo Gulch quarter and a few steps away from the main square, the crowned church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and some of the best restaurants, galleries, boutiques and jewelers.
Convenient location of easy access at level street without having to climb up stairs on the street.
Crossing the threshold of Villa Leonarda, at one end of the patio the river Cuale and its island offer a delightful landscape of lush vegetation against the backdrop of the mountains. Here, the sound of the water flowing and the song of birds will make of your stay an unforgettable experience.

Location Type Downtown, River, Village

Additional notes from owner

THE VILLA IS AVAILABLE AT FOUR- OR FIVE-BEDROOMS RATES.
RATES Listed are 5Bedroom rates.

4 BR RATE apply for the described dates avobe, and as follows:
LOW SEASON = US$500 nighty rate
HI SEASONS = US$700 nighty rate
HOLIDAYS = US$950 nighty rate

What Past Guests Are Saying

Overall Rating

• Sharon
  North Vancouver, B.C.

  Christmas Oasis

  Left on 03/21/2013 for a stay in December 2012
  
  

  We had wonderful family Xmas in our own private Villa in the middle of much activities. Getting up when we wanted, having breakfast made for us by a efficient friendly staff in a home like setting added to our relaxing holiday. Sitting around the pool, visiting with friends who were also down completed a great week. Very small children might have problems with the stairs would be my only caution. Couples would enjoy it but need to be comfortable with stairs for two of the rooms.

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  Would you recommend this vacation rental to a friend? Yes

  Recommended for: Romantic, Families

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• Barbara
  Minneapolis, Minnesota

  Historic Beauty, Convenient Location, Modern amenities

  Left on 03/18/2013 for a stay in February 2013
  
  

  When we booked Villa Leonarda for our three-generation family beach vacation, we hoped it would be a comfortable base of relaxation during our exploration of Puerto Vallarta. It was so much more! From the first step inside the unpretentious door we were overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the place with its lush plantings and tasteful décor. It is a beautiful combination of modern amenities, lovely art, and attention to history. The location is exactly what we required. An easy walk to the beach for the times you prefer the ocean to the villa's heated pool, and walking distance to anyplace in town including fabulous restaurants featuring any type of food you have a yen for.
  
  Sergio and Leslie were the perfect hosts, and staff members Delia and Josefina took great care of the villa (and of us) making us all feel right at home. Delia's cooking is absolutely delicious. It was a special contribution to the family birthdays which we celebrated with a party while at Villa Leonarda. Leslie's assistance was also invaluable in planning for the party. We would all definitely recommend the villa as the perfect location for any type of celebration.
  
  Everyone returned home relaxed and rejuvenated. We were able to enjoy each others' company in ways that would not have been possible at a resort or a hotel. Villa Leonarda afforded each of us plenty of private space both personally and as a family group. This vacation left us with many happy, warm memories that we will cherish always. Thank you, Sergio and Leslie!
  

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  Would you recommend this vacation rental to a friend? Yes

  Recommended for: Travelers, Romantic, Luxury, Families

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• reofoto
  Mexico City, Mexico

  Increible lugar y locaciĂłn

  Left on 07/31/2012 for a stay in July 2012
  
  

  Fuimos a Casa Leonarda en Puerto Vallarta un grupo de tres parejas con niños, desde nuestra llegada recibimos una muy grata sorpresa, la casa es de las mas antiguas y bellas del viejo pueblo, junto al río y a escasas dos cuadras del malecón, en una pequeña calle empedrada con todo el sabor de pueblo, un vez adentro las sorpresas no terminaron, se encuentra junto a un rio, la naturaleza formano parte del espacio, habitaciones muy amplias y originales, llenas de luz, objetos de arte y cada una con baños super amplio y original, toda la experiencia fue excelente, nos sentimos como en nuestra propia casa y con muchas ventajas, las habitaciones están bastante independientes, lo que permite que cada huesped disfrute de momentos de independencia si así lo desea, el área de alberca es muy agradable y los noños se sintieron tan agusto que no querían salir a la playa!
  Salir a pasear en las tardes no puede ser mas cómodo, dejamos el auto y casi no lo necesitamos porque las compras, helados, restaurantes, paseos y hasta el malecón están a 5 minutos caminando. Lo propietarios son muy amables y serviciales, muy atentos a las necesidades del huesped, y por si fuera poco, la historia del lugar es sensacional, por esta casa pasaron las estrellas de cine de Hollywood cuando Puerto Vallarta se convirtió en el centro de vacaciones de personalidades como Lyz Taylor, Richard Burton o John Houston, definitivamente regresaremos a Casa Leonarda a la primera oportunidad que tengamos de ir a Vallarta en el futuro.

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  Would you recommend this vacation rental to a friend? Yes

  Recommended for: Friends, Families w children

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• LosSuenosDT
  SF

  Fantastico!

  Left on 03/06/2012 for a stay in February 2012
  
  

  My wife and I have stayed at Villa Leonarda several times since getting married there in 2004. It is truly a magical place - from the moment you pass through the antique wooden doors and enter onto the terrace you know you're somewhere very special. You can almost feel the history of Vallarta as you make your way to the circle table and enjoy time (and tequila) with friends
  
  The setting is rustic, unique and very private – perched along the Rio Cuale, you’re mere steps from the center of Vallarta and everything the town has to offer – restaurants, shopping, the Malecon, the beach, hiking, etc. That is, if you actually want to leave the villa. A full day (or several) can easily be spent inside the villa reading, relaxing, swimming, eating and drinking with friends and family. If you do venture out for a day of exploring in the beautiful city and neighborhoods, know that nothing will have changed when you arrive back at 414 Guerrero.
  
  The kitchen is more than adequate if you plan to cook for yourself – we have made many meals without a problem. There is also a large dining table and sitting area inside the original adobe part of the villa but we always find ourselves at the circle table.
  
  Most of the villa is open to the elements, which means you may experience a little bit of nature close up. There are iguanas, geckos, squirrels, and birds in the trees and you may even see a bat fly around at night looking for a meal. The chirping geckos that climb along the walls are apart of what makes staying here so special.
  
  The beds are clean and comfortable; the rooms are cleaned daily as is the entire villa. We have never had anything but wonderful experiences. We’ve stayed with friends, family, and just the two of us and it’s been amazing every time! Sergio and Leslie have spent much time and love in making the villa incredibly special. There are many original paintings, sculptures, and unique artistic touches throughout the villa.
  
  If your typical vacation stay is at a posh hotel or you like cookie-cutter all-inclusive hotels then this may not be for you. But then again, Villa Leonarda offers a very comfortable stay while surrounded by old Mexican architecture and art. So if you enjoy being centrally located but miles away you need to spend some magical time at Villa Leonarda.
  
  Highlights of Villa Leonarda:
  Waking up in the canopy bed with the birds chirping and knowing you’re at the villa
  The lush trees, plants, and flowers throughout the grounds
  art, antiques, statues, and more art!
  Breakfast prepared at the circle table by Cecilia
  Lounging poolside on the large terrace looking at the sculpture wall
  The love Sergio and Leslie pour into their home
  Sunsets on the upper terrace are amazing
  The 360 views of the city and mountain from the upper terrace
  Sergio and Leslie Toledano!

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  Would you recommend this vacation rental to a friend? Yes

  Recommended for: Friends, Groups, Families w children

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• apearsey
  187049

  What an amazing place - a true find...

  Left on 02/05/2012 for a stay in January 2012
  
  

  We have just returned from a two week vacation in PV - a truly magical vacation that at this unique and truly magnificent villa. Tucked away in the corner of one of Vallarta’s cobble streets the villa is a true oasis - after a long journey (two flights with an overnight stop in the us) we arrived tired and worn - when we arrived at the villa we were greeted by Cecelia who showed us to the courtyard - a expansive oasis that instantly lifted our spirits and gave just a small taste of the experience that awaited us...
  
  The villa is certainly unique - on one evening we held a BBQ for friends that we have in the area and they were equally amazed by the sheer luxury and Mexican and are now looking to book the villa to host an upcoming celebration.
  
  For us the villa had everything we needed, location (central with no major hills to ascend!) heated swimming pool (8 month old grand-daughter) and extremely friendly and professional staff who looked after us superbly.
  
  We do not tend to holiday in the same location twice - however should we ever revisit PV we will certainly look to book this unique and charming villa that has created so many great memories for us all.

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  Would you recommend this vacation rental to a friend? Yes

  Recommended for: Groups, Families w children

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• talkinbway
  45953

  Paradise Found!

  Left on 01/30/2012 for a stay in March 2010
  
  

  The very first time I entered the large wooden doors of this 1880 Mexican villa it took my breath away. Walking the few steps down through the iron gates one is standing on a huge terrace overlooking the river Cuale. The terrace separates 2 two-story magnificent old-style brick buildings. The terrace also has a dining area, lounge chairs and a heated pool. If old-world charm is what you are seeking, but with all the amenities one would expect from a gracious staff. The house is filled with antiques and artwork everywhere you turn.
  
  On arrival we were met by staff and given the keys. Music was playing and pitchers of margharitas and snacks awaited us.
  
  Each morning we would gather around the "round" table in the main building where the housekeeper would cook breakfast. Although you are in the heart of the city, all you hear are the birds in the trees and the flow of the river. In the early evenings we'd have cocktails at the "round" table and listen to mariachi music.
  
  The location can't be beat; no need to ever take a taxi as you're within a few minutes easy walk to the beach and there are many, many fine restaurants nearby. At night we lit up the villa's outdoor area which took on a magical appearance. If the walls could talk you'd hear the voices of many Hollywood luminaries from the past as this villa is rich with history. Locals proclaim Villa Leonarda as the heart and soul of Puerto Vallarta, and I agree.
  
  I've rented this villa a few times and have never been disappointed. When you divide the number in your group (there were 8 of us) into the weekly rate, it's quite affordable. When you arrive for the first time your first impression might be "it's just a house on a cobble stone street" but beyond those wooden doors is another world!

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  Would you recommend this vacation rental to a friend? Yes

  Recommended for: Friends, Groups

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• VeraWeber
  188108

  An oasis of beauty and peace in the heart of Old Puerto Vallarta

  Left on 10/31/2011 for a stay in November 2010
  
  

  If Villa Leonarda did not exist, it would have to be invented! This dream of a place is definitely a destination of its own. Floating in between old days and modern times, Villa Leonarda makes you plunge into the long lost luxury of escaping everyday life.
  
  Tucked away in the corner of a cobblestone street in the very heart of Old Puerto Vallarta, the big wooden door of Villa Leonarda opens up to a world of serenity, art and joy. Furbished, decorated and kept with undeniable taste, this old style Puerto Vallarta home has long ago won my heart and touched my very soul. A home away from home, a home where I yearn to belong.
  
  But what would be home without the warming welcome and presence of the hosts Sergio and Leslie, what would be Villa Leonarda without the helpful attendance of the charming staff!
  
  In two weeks, like every single year since 1998, I will return home to Villa Leonarda and feel like I have never left this place, feel like this is where I have always wanted to be!

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  Would you recommend this vacation rental to a friend? Yes

  Recommended for: Friends, Groups, Families w children

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  Response from Sergio Toledano - 11/09/2011

  

  Sergio Toledano

  Owner

  
  Dear Vera,
  Receiving your review made us very happy.
  You are never far from home when you are in Puerto Vallarta because Villa Leonarda is your home where you will always find affection, we are delighted to have you here every year and we feel so proud to be your choice for rest and relaxation after your hard work protecting animals and the environment all over the world through the Foundation Franz Weber, which has been an example for the planet for a long time.
  Thank you for sharing your experience in Villa Leonarda.