Hotel Spotlight: Casa Encantada

If I didn't share this charming boutique hotel with you, it would really feel like I was keeping a secret that is just too good not to share.

Casa Encantada, La Antigua, Guatemala

Finding a place to stay in Antigua, or anywhere for that matter, is the definitive link that solidifies a trip for us.  Gone are my hostels days, and I have realized that where you stay can often define your experience.  I spend countless hours poring over reviews and doing internet searches before I settle on a hotel.  

When you are met with impeccable service, a cozy lobby with oversized sofa and chairs in serene blues that looks out to the courtyard, and an atmosphere that reflects the surrounding location, it can really give you a sense of place and excitement.  This is what we found at Casa Encantada.

Entering the small gate of Casa Encantada, you are greeted by a lush courtyard where a glistening lap pool and fountain comes into full view.  An oasis from the city streets, bougainvillea towers over the walkway.

One of the guest rooms is behind the lobby, with stone steps over shallow water lit up by candles in the evening, you must walk over the steps to reach the room.  This room is tucked quietly in the back of the property and both for the peace and quiet and novelty effect that it affords, it is often sold out, so request early.

The rooms are furnished with white bed linens, and often a huipil (traditional Guatemalan tunics) hangs on the wall.  Walking through the common areas you discover other traditional touches, wood beams, candelabras, stone walls, and terracotta floors.  

On the second floor, a terrace awaits, where we had breakfast overlooking the nearby volcanoes, even though it was complimentary, a full menu was supplied, this was no standard Continental breakfast fare: plantains, black beans, guacamole, eggs any style...

This small boutique hotel has only 10 guest bedrooms, which only enhances its intimate feel.  We had the luxury of staying in two separate rooms, my husband surprised me with the suite for my birthday.  The wrought iron four poster bed that greeted us and the jacuzzi tub with jets was a perfect birthday treat.

The Suite

Even more so, when waiting for us after dinner was a room strewn with rose petals, lit candles, and a bottle of champagne with two champagne flutes.  And all this just for my birthday!

Birthday Dinner at Meson Panza Verde
Images via Travelmoon