At a Glance
This Zen-like resort made up of tree-house style casitas dotted along the coast offers guests peaceful stays complete with endless communing with nature and expertly-run yoga classes.
Review
One of the many elements that make Aqua Wellness Resort so special is its staff. Consisting of a wide array of multi-talented ex-pats, they resemble a family (and by the end of your trip, they will feel like your family). The Director of Sustainable Systems is a Vermont-educated farmer. The Managing Partner who originally hails from British Guiana is also a Manhattan hedge fund manager. The Wellness Director having “broken up with winter years ago,” spends her winters in Nicaragua and summers in Canada. The General Manager who is developing the spa into a world-class program, was born in the Ukraine. The German architect is married to the Managing Director (ask about how they met: she was a tourist in Manhattan’s Central Park, he offered her directions, they fell in love…) The English chef biked around Asia for two years perfecting his craft.
An eco luxury property comprised of 25 tree houses, Aqua Wellness Resort sits on the protected Redonda Bay on the Pacific coast. The resort emphasizes nature, in particular the stunning ocean at its feet. The houses, built on pilings amid the tropical forest and made of sustainable local wood and stone, feature rain showers and un-chlorinated private plunge pools. Ideal for families, the tree houses can accommodate several people and even have full kitchens, dining rooms and lounge areas. The Nicaraguan furnishings are comfortable and the views of the rainforest and ocean act as the world’s most spectacular decoration. One of the directors described their mission: “We’re intentionally taking people out of their comfort zone and bringing them back to basics. We’re in nature, but in a luxurious way.”
Activities include hiking, surfing, fishing, kayaking and yoga. The 1,100-square-foot yoga platform overlooks the ocean and the instructor also offers a raw-food cooking course. The protected nature of the bay allows for snorkeling and swimming in the very warm and gentle ocean, and phosphorescent sea creatures are visible at night.
The food at Bromelia restaurant is a balanced mix of American (omelets, fajitas, pasta, and sandwiches) and Nicaraguan (ceviche, locally caught seafood, churrasco, gallo pinto and curry). All food is locally grown as the resort works closely with the farmers in the nearby town of Rivas. Also on offer is an extensive menu of smoothies – all of which include all-natural, locally grown ingredients (a great post-yoga treat).
Indagare Tip
Stay up late one night and wade into the ocean. Watch for the phosphorescence.
Who Should Stay
Families and those looking for a retreat that stresses wellness.
Who Should Not Stay
Anyone who might have problems with many stairs.
Written by Amelia Osborne Scott