Laguna Lodge, Santa Cruz La Laguna, Lago de Atitlan, Guatemala - Explore & Book

"The deep waters of Atitlán rest in a giant super crater formed when a mega-volcano blew its top some 85,000 years ago. Surrounded by 3 conical volcanoes, with colourful villages dotted along its shore, this 1,565m-high lake is sacred to the local Maya, who believe the world was born from its primordial depths. Pegged to a sheer cliff face in a hidden corner of Atitlán and only accessible by water is Laguna Lodge, a stone and thatch construction that sits in marked contrast with the backpacker guesthouses normally found around the lake. Created by eco-tourism pioneers Mayah (a Kiwi) and Jeffro (an Australian), its appeal lies in its blend of impeccable environmental credentials and modern luxuries, including a spa, a gourmet restaurant, 7 spacious lake-facing rooms and a 2-bedroom villa. It’s perfect for romancing couples, who will enjoy lazing in the outdoor pool at the water’s edge and dining on candlelit terraces. Nature lovers and twitchers will be in their element, too, as the private reserve on which the lodge sits is home to rare belted flycatchers, blue-throated motmots and other colourful birds. Highs Surrounded by the sounds of nature - lapping water, tweeting birds - with otherworldly views of the lake and its guardian volcanoes from the rooms, restaurant and poolOver 100 acres of protected flora- and fauna-filled forest to explore, with a guide if you want, plus kayaks to paddle around Well-crafted, flavoursome and organic vegetarian cuisine, with a daily changing set menu - even hardened carnivores will be impressedPampering treatments in the intimate Hummingbird Spa (hot-stone massages, Maya foot scrubs), plus a garden Jacuzzi - the perfect antidote to hikes around the reserveEvening drinks under the stars, and breakfasts in the company of busy hummingbirds as fishermen canoe back and forth Lows Service is wonderfully friendly, but it can sometimes be a little slow as all food and drink is freshly made Some paths in the reserve are steep and slippery. Tread carefully, and make sure you take a map to make sense of the markers The sunbathing area on the jetty lacks privacy as it doubles as a public dock" - Claire Boobbyer