Set on a verdant hillside, Pacaya Lodge and Spa overlooks a picturesque crater lake from an unspoiled slice of Nicaraguan nature. Its lofty perch offers glorious views across a dense jungle canopy that slopes toward iconic Laguna de Apoyo, with the colonial town of Granada visible in the distance. However, city life feels a world away at the upscale boutique retreat that transports you to a peaceful haven that's tucked into lush natural surrounds.
A cool tropical welcome drink greets you upon arrival at the main lodge. However, you'll likely be tempted to explore the walking paths that wind through the tree-shaded resort. Stroll the grounds, taking in native plants and flowers to the sounds of exotic birds and howler monkeys. Ease down a gentle incline to a wide sun terrace with magnificent views of a shimmering infinity pool. Down below, the thermal waters of the crater lake invite you for a swim.
Start your day on a yoga deck with inspiring views, stretching away your tension with a certified yoga instructor. When it's time to take relaxation to the next level, there's a luxury spa. Employing botanicals and herbs from an on-site garden, the spa offers locally inspired treatments. Melt under a pair of healing hands with a coconut-oil massage. Let the rejuvenating properties of the tropics sink into your skin with some soothing papaya therapy. If you'd like to steam away your stress, there's a traditional sweat lodge.
Nestled among shade-giving trees, low, timber-rich buildings dot the peaceful getaway. Each of the guestrooms in the main lodge has a private balcony with sublime views of the lake. Settle into a hammock and relax, caressed by a cool mountain breeze. Two-story eco-casitas offer the same views, with a bedroom and bathroom on each floor. All accommodations mix traditional Nicaraguan touches with contemporary design elements. Modern décors of muted browns, soft cream hues and white accents are offset by works from local artisans. Hand-crafted furniture shares space with hand-carved sculptures. Splashes of color are found in vibrant bed covers and whimsical wall art. Enjoy an ultra-modern bathroom with a walk-in glass-and-tile shower, along with locally made luxury bath amenities.
Dining is enjoyed amid the splendor of nature at an open-air eatery. Restaurante Guardabarranco puts unique spins on Nicaraguan classics with a menu that's sourced from local producers and its own organic garden. Take in views of Laguna de Apoyo and distant volcanoes over a típico breakfast with gallo pinto, sweet plantains and pico de gallo with your made-to-order eggs. Start lunch with a shared Güegüense platter of yuca, pork creole, chorizo and guacamole. For dinner, savor Churrasco, grilled skirt steak with Chimichurri sauce. In the evening, retire to Bar Macuá. Sample its namesake cocktail, the Macuá, Nicaragua's national drink of white rum and fruit juices.
Much of the resort's power is drawn from on-site solar collectors. While modern and efficient air conditioners cut down on energy use, buildings are designed to reduce their need with layouts that are optimized for cooling air flow. Pacaya also prides itself on uplifting community programs. Addressing the issue of low high-school graduation rates in the region, the resort has invested in a high school that focuses on agriculture and tourism skills. They're also part of a program that aids local farmers with training and financing for sustainable agricultural. Additionally, Pacaya participates in NicaWorks, an initiative to aid micro-entrepreneurs.
Unique local culture lies just outside the reserve, in nearby villages that specialize in art, handicrafts and other artisan works. Browse the market in the hamlet of Catarina for one-of-a-kind handmade items. For culture on a larger scale, the popular colonial town of Granada is a 30-minute drive away. Walk its cobblestone streets to enjoy bustling outdoor markets, museums with pre-Colombian artifacts and colorful, historical buildings.
Nature escapes lie in every direction. A drive of just over an hour delivers you to El Chocoyero National Reserve, a pristine retreat with stunning waterfalls and soaring cliffs that are home to thousands of parakeets. You can visit Masaya Volcano with a 30-minute drive. Peer over its rim to see glowing lava bubbling in its crater, putting on a glorious fiery display at night. Take a 40-minute drive to Mombacho Volcano. Though the ascent is for experienced hikers, near the summit you'll find easy and accessible trails that meander through a cloud forest.
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