Blancaneaux Lodge by Francis Ford Coppola

We have just returned form 4 nights in Blancaneaux after a 7 week South and Central America trip and we stayed in 18 different hotels - three of them part of the Coppola chain - and Blancaneaux is by far the best out of the three. We had a hard time getting there due to protests at the border and arrived very late but the staff were all out in the dark with cold towels and drinks to meet us, including Bernie the GM. They were so welcoming and could not do enough to help us. The luggage was taken straight to the room and was there by the time we reached it. We had THE nicest villa - Room 12 - at the very end of the path in the trees and with its own plunge pool. Breakfast was delivered every day bang on time and it was so lovely to sit outside amongst the birds and trees by the pool to eat breakfast before we went out. There are lots of things to do here and we took full advantage of the location. We visited Barton Creek Cave with George's Adventure Tours and he was fab at guiding us into the caves in his canoe. We did the ATM caves which is a good day trip and Blancaneaux packed us a really beautiful lunch with fresh fruit, salsa and chips, fab tuna and chicken salad wraps plus their own granola bars for energy and water etc. We did sunset horse riding through the pine forest and rainforest as there are stables on the premises with 22 horses for all ages and abilities. Mark took us on a beautiful jungle hike of 14.5kms to the waterfalls and he carried yet another lovely lunch packed by the lodge to incentivise us to reach the waterfall as it was hot, steep and quite challenging at times. The waiting staff in the restaurant knew our names on the first sitting and greeted us accordingly every tine we saw them which goes a long way in my book as it was full at the time we visited and they always knew us which is great hospitality. So friendly, professional, food was very good and the FCC wines are varied too. Bernie was always about checking up that everyone and everything was OK which I like as there's nothing worse than an absent Manager who does not know how his ship is running. On our last night they had prepared a private table out by the fire pit with flowers and depurations with the fire on for us to enjoy the menu.. a really lovely touch. A generally wonderful experience and a great few days to relax by the pool or tube down the river with lots to keep you busy if you prefer. Thanks to everyone in the team at Blancaneaux lodge, it really was fantastic.

I did not believe the positve reviews until I eXperienced the amazing service and attention to details. The place os peaceful and magical. When we arrived, we were greeted in amazing fashion. After a long drive from the airport, we had some amazing fresh seafood and vegetables. The quarters were amazing. We had the basic river cabana. We then went horseback riding tbroigh the jungle. The sunset ride was exceptional. Dinner was amazing in flavor and value. Morning in room dining was excellent. Excursions by the lodge are top notch and well worth the cost. You get the best of everythjng--the best guides and vehicles and experiences. I think it is best to consukt with staff and arrange the best experiences for your tastes. We visited Barton Cave and Cahal Pech. The highlight for us was the romantic dinner. I believe it would be hard to top anywhere in the world. Best part of Blancaneaux is the hjgh level of service and pampering. You experience all types of little extras throughout---extra homemade candy here a hot water bottle in the bed there--multiple room cleanings and treats. Anyways, the top reviews are well deserved. Blancaneaux is amazing!