Posada del Hidalgo is a beautiful colonial mansion. This attractive structure was built in 1890 by Don Rafael Almada, a wealthy and influential "alcalde" (mayor) who spent five years and 100,000 gold pesos on its construction. The wooden trim was made from 285 Canadian red pine beams.

Don Rafael's mansion was the largest and most beautiful in El Fuerte. It was built just below the old fort, and has four layers of brick and adobe construction. The iron work was brought from Mazatlan.

The "Casa Vieja" section has 12 beautiful rooms with thorough modern amenities in the colonial design, surrounding tropical garden and a beautiful ramada. Casa Vieja is believed to have been the original site of "El Zorro's" house [AKA Don Diego de la Vega]. The newer style rooms face the spacious and breathtaking garden, typical of the old tropical colonial houses.