12 December, 2017
This dreamy
beach resort lies on the Caribbean coast of Colombia,
nestled in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountains with water
stretching as far as the eye can see. Just a 15-minute drive from
the entrance to Tayrona National Park, this secluded hotel is the
perfect place to unwind. Locals refer to the area as the “heart of
the world” – and it’s not hard to see why. The beaches are empty
and clean, rivers run from the mountains down to the sand and over
600 bird species have been spotted in the area.
The rooms consist of individual eco-chic bungalows with outdoor
bathrooms. Simple, clean and comfortable, each bungalow has been
built using indigenous methods and materials, completed by a
beautiful palm roof. Local, natural interiors keep the rooms cool
in the midday sun, so there is no need for air conditioning.
Traditional arepas, a type of maize or corn pancake, are served
with platters of fresh fruit and coffee or tea. Tropical juices are
also a speciality here. Prepared daily, flavours include passion
fruit, guava, lulo, mango and starfruit.
The menu changes daily depending on what fish the restaurant
receives from the local fishermen. This sea-to-table approach
ensures an innovative and exciting eating experience every meal.
Whilst the menu centres around Colombian, Latin and Asian flavours
many dishes contain influences from all over the world. On arrival
at the hotel, guests should inform the reception of any allergies
or dislikes they have, but other than that, it is a surprise each
day.
Yes. Get stuck in to cocktails, beer, wine and smoothies – or
bring your own bottle to drink under the stars.
Yoga classes run twice daily, and are included in the price of
your stay. There is also a small spa offering massages, herbal
baths and a selection of natural body scrubs. The hotel has a
private section of beach with umbrellas and sun loungers;
alternatively rent a kayak or paddle board and explore the
crystalline waters. Every evening a bonfire on the beach makes for
the perfect place to huddle and enjoy the shooting stars.
The sea along this coastline is quite rough, so the hotel
advises against swimming, instead recommending that you simply dip
in to cool off. There isn’t a pool at the hotel and as it is an
eco-resort, there are no hot showers or air-conditioning in the
rooms, but fans are provided to maintain a comfortable
temperature.
There is not that much within walking distance, apart from
beautiful views of the sea and mountains, but the hotel offers
transport for local excursions like trekking in the national park
and visiting the Lost City.
