As the quintessential boutique hotel, Hotel Santuario Diegueño defines itself by its unique synthesis of modern amenities and local tradition. Located in Tecate, Baja California, Hotel Santuario Diegueño was created, designed, and inspired by the region’s rich cultural heritage. Tecate, formerly known to the Kumeyaay people as Zecate (meaning "valley"), was a safe harbor for the semi-nomadic indigenous people. Spanish missionaries arrived from the Southern Baja Peninsula in the late 18th century and after they established the San Diego Mission they eventually made their way east. The missionaries affectionately referred to the native Kumeyaay peoples as Diegueños, or natives to the San Diego Mission’s dominion. Thus, Hotel Santuario Diegueño is the recreation and reimagining of the sanctuary the Kumeyaay people have celebrated for centuries combined with all the amenities of a modern hotel.

Hotel Santuario Diegueño embodies the region’s spirit in a myriad of ways. With a neo-vernacular style, the hotel incorporates local materials in its design. Tecate is known for its clay and stone that is ubiquitous in the area. The roof is comprised of tile solicited from local craftsmen. The large stones found in the walls that separate the different levels of the complex were pulled piece by piece from the grounds during the construction of the hotel. The large ornate wooden doors found at the entrance to the hotel and restaurant were also locally sourced. Furthermore, the entire hotel is adorned with hand selected Mexican folk art with more than 75% made especially for the hotel.

Owner and visionary Jose Manuel Jasso recruited local talent to provide the hotel’s culinary statement. Tijuana Culinary Institute graduate Eulogio Rivas works with the renowned Chef Martin San Roman to provide patrons with cutting edge dishes inspired by local tradition. The fine dining ambience at Asao, the hotel’s jewel of a restaurant, is truly a delight. Patrons enjoy sumptuous meals and watch the sunsets’ splash of orange and red hues falling on the sacred 5,000 foot Monte Cuchumá sitting on the horizon. Asao (meaning "to eat" in Kumeyaay) fully embodies Jasso’s theme: embracing the conveniences of modernity without sacrificing the characteristics of the region. The restaurant aims to infuse creativity, freshness, and boldness, all with a Mexican touch. Asao features an extensive wine list featuring wines from Adobe Guadalupe, Emeve, Baron Balch'é, Relieve, Casa Magoni, Torres Alegre, Viña Liceaga, and LA Cetto; and Tecate wineries Bichi, Casa Veramendi and Don Juan.

The hotel caters to almost any occasion, whether it is the overnight business trip, a romantic weekend getaway, or a large group event. The hotel’s staff will provide personal and stately services. The hotel offers 26 rooms with three different options. Each room boasts private balconies and magnificent views. The event center is an ideal option for executive business meetings, conferences, or small conventions. Furthermore, the aesthetic design provides a picturesque setting for social celebrations such as weddings and anniversaries.

Hotel Santuario Diegueño is a fantastic infusion of modernity and regional identity. Located only minutes away from the Tecate border crossing, the hotel is great option if you are looking to explore the Tecate community or if you are seeking the northern gateway to the Valle de Guadalupe wine country.