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.
