A secret rainforest paradise destination need not be limited to your Friday afternoon daydreams. Neither are jungle hideaways only for secret lairs of James Bond villains. Such places actually do exist and are open to the public. Blancaneaux Lodge in Belize stands out as a special place. Francis Ford Coppola thought so too, in the 1980s when he first visited he fell in love with the place. He subsequently purchased the abandoned resort. In 1993 Blancaneaux opened to the public and the rest is history.
Hidden away in a cozy corner of the Maya Mountains, Blancaneaux Lodge is a 20-room luxury resort hotel in Belize where waterfalls tumble into turquoise pools above the jungle canopy. Its remote mountain setting makes it a perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. The region is also home to ruins from the ancient civilization of the Maya. Exploring the sacred sites and ceremonial caves is a magical archaeological and natural experience.
Photo: Blancaneaux website
The cabañas with private decks overlook the Privassion River or waterfall. Family cabañas offer plenty of space and the Honeymoon cabañas are obviously designed to be the perfect setting for a romantic vacation. If Blancaneaux wasn’t already remote enough, the Deluxe cabañas take privacy one step further. These premier accommodations are located on the eastern end of the property and overlook the Privassion Creek.
For activities, it may come as a surprise that Blancaneaux has horse stables. You can enjoy an equestrian sightseeing tour through the lowlands of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Avid glamping enthusiasts are no strangers to horseback riding or dude ranch experiences, but the novelty is in combining it with a tropical environment.
Photo: Blancaneaux website
Getting wet is a big deal at Blancaneaux. Thousands of streams and waterfalls begin in the nearby mountain range. Natural streams and swimming holes are supplemented by the resorts beautiful pools. Stunning hidden pools and waterfalls amongst smooth granite boulders and sandy beaches are a must for the adventurous guest. The pools are great too, especially with the ‘captains’ nearby to provide fresh towels and take drink orders. Speaking of pampering, the Waterfall Spa is set on the banks of the Privassion Creek and offers a variety of treatments, wraps and massages, as well as access to a rejuvenating hot pool overlooking cascading waterfalls.
Another unique feature of Blancaneaux is the Organic Garden. The gardener and chef consult daily about what produce is available for the daily menu. The vegetables are local and definitely fresh. The growing season is year round so with careful rotation fresh tomatoes are always available for salads and pastas.
Photo: Blancaneaux website
The pictures of Blancaneaux really do the convincing when considering a visit. Find out more about Blancaneaux Lodge.
