Guatemala is quickly becoming a popular Central American destination. Having traveled to the country several times, I realize that on previous trips I have never experienced anything like Casa Palopó, a hidden getaway situated some 90 miles from Guatemala City that overlooks scenic Lake Atitlán.
Atitlán is a Mayan word meaning “the place where a rainbow gets its colors,” and the lake is celebrated as one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world. Casa Palopó was recently honored by Condé Nast Traveler as the No. 1 reader’s choice resort in the Caribbean and Central America — and rightly so.
“Resort” might be an overstatement, however, as Casa Palopó is more of a boutique hotel — or better yet, an elegant, private enclave with just nine unique suites. Oozing with rustic Mayan charm, the property is decorated with Guatemalan artifacts, brightly colored textiles and heavy hardwood furniture. The property is reserved for adults, with a policy of no guests under the age of 15.
The TV-free accommodations are well-appointed, and bathrooms feature hand-painted murals. Butler service comes standard, and a personal chef can be arranged. A separate villa up a steep slope comprises two bedrooms, a living room, dining room, infinity pool, whirlpool, and both indoor and outdoor fireplaces. The other seven suites in the main lodge are built around a stylish lounge that feels like an oversize living room and features striking artwork.
The property offers recreational activities including guided mountain climbing, horseback riding, poolside massages, and access to a lakeside dock for swimming and kayaking. It is also home to two helipads should guests prefer to arrive via helicopter.
The can’t-miss excursion is chartering a boat to visit some of the colonial villages where life has changed little over the centuries. A day trip costs only $120 for a 27-foot boat complete with captain and deck hand. A good place to start is San Juan la Laguna, where you can visit the workshops of local painters as well as a cooperative where women in traditional Mayan garb work on backstrap looms making some of Guatemala’s finest textiles.
Fine dining is the name of the game at 6.8 Palopó, an elegant, intimate restaurant with a relaxed dining room, glassed-in terrace and veranda. A world-class wine list is in service. Come evening, hanging iron candelabras and a collection of candles cast a soft light across the eatery and the cozy bar. During the rainy season, incredible electrical storms light up the night sky and the clouds let loose massive downpours over the lake.
