The twin-volcano island of Ometepe may appear compact when viewed from the mainland. However, once you set foot on its shores you'll immediately realize that it's a diverse destination with spots, spread over considerable distances, that can give you decidedly different adventures. Those looking for a more-tranquil escape will be rewarded with a trip to Mérida. About an hour's drive from the two points where boats disembark, the small village on the bank of Lake Nicaragua is a sleepy town to say the least. Just a few small restaurants and shops mark the blink-and-you-miss-it hamlet. Perched above Mérida's center you'll find Hotel Congos Resort.
Set at the foot of the Maderas Volcano, the sprawling retreat offers one of the more upscale getaway experiences in the area. Stone paths crisscross the richly wooded grounds, cooled by shade trees and home to a variety of small native creatures and colorful tropical birds. With just a handful of spacious cabins tucked into the hillsides, you're guaranteed a degree of privacy and exclusivity not easily found elsewhere on the island. .
The vibrant red walls of the main structure peek out from palm trees that sway in the tropical breeze. Ascend a commanding set of stone-accented steps to the main lodge to check in. Under a vaulted ceiling, the airy reception area serves as the resort's restaurant and guest gathering space. It's fronted by a wide veranda with tables that offer views of the canopy of green that spreads across the anterior of the complex. Backed by a small service bar, the main building is also where Congos serves diverse cuisine. A chalkboard menu lists a wide variety of dishes, from chicken specialities that echo a more international leaning, to traditional Nicaragua favorites like the classic tipico breakfast. After your meal, you'll be tempted to ease into one of the rocking chairs on the patio just outside, or head up to the next level to sink into a hammock to while away some time in true Nicaraguan style.
Carved into the lush, sloping landscape you'll find your cabin. Newly constructed, the bungalows burst from the surrounding gardens in brilliant hues of bright yellow and fiery red. Inside, you'll find a contrasting scheme of cool white and wood tones with modern touches. The air-conditioned accommodations fill with natural light from windows on opposing walls, letting in rays from both sunrises and Ometepe's famed sunsets.
Outside, wide porches lie under high wood-panelled overhangs that are supported by hand-hewn wood beams. Brick and decorative stone accents round out the top-notch craftsmanship. Ease into a wooden rocking chair and loll away some time to the soothing soundtrack of nature. You can stay in a semi-detached suite, or opt for a singular cabin. There's also a larger three-bedroom option that comes with a complete kitchen and a separate seating area -- great for families or those travelling in larger groups. .
While you'll want to get out and explore all the island has to offer, you'll be hard-pressed to find a reason to leave the grounds. A shimmering pool sits against a backdrop of greenery with the splendid view of the lake in the distance. After splashing around, settle at a wrought-iron cafe table, or pull up a stool at the poolside bar and enjoy a tropical drink. When it's time to take the relaxation to the next level, a healing heat treatment awaits. Congos has its own wood-lined sauna with ample space to lie back and steam away your stress.
A big bonus for basing your visit to Ometepe in Merida is close proximity to the San Ramon Waterfall. You can traverse the trail up to the cascade on foot or horseback, winding through a full-bloom path of unspoiled nature to the 60-meter-tall wonder. Those looking for a longer and more strenuous hike can head up the trail to the Maderas Volcano, an all-day ascension that offers splendid views of the island and Lake Nicaragua. From Congos, a short stroll down to the shore can put you on a kayak trip around the lake and up the Istián River, a waterway that cuts through the center of the island with great opportunities for spotting exotic birds and other wildlife. Or, perhaps paddle over to Monkey Island, actually twin islets that are home to a frolicking brood of spider monkeys.
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