Before the summer heat waves hit – and you’re spending all your time at a crowded pool – plan some family travel that will give you a chance to get a little time to yourself.
All of these hotels are in remarkable destinations, with plenty for Dad and the kids to do while Mom heads to the spa, the Jacuzzi, the yoga studio, or a quiet museum.
1. El Silencio Lodge and Spa — Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica
This lodge is in the rural town of Bajos del Toro, which is located between Juan Castro Blanco National Park and Poás Volcano National Park.
Because of its remote location, you’ll rely on the services provided by the lodge during your stay. At the lodge’s Ventanas Restaurant you’ll get to eat farm-to-table cuisine, much of which is grown on the grounds of the lodge.
El Silencio provides interesting ways to experience the calming effects of the serene landscape. You can sign up for yoga classes during your stay. Make time to visit the conical room that is designed to facilitate relaxation, with a floor-to-ceiling window and a tall ceiling. Come here for a massage, and to experience some of the lodge’s mystical vibes.
2. Gaia Hotel & Reserve — Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Gaia Hotel & Reserve is in the middle of the rainforest, on its own private reserve. This hotel is only for adults and teens, so send the little ones on their own vacation with a fun aunt or grandparent!
While you’re here you can take hikes to immerse yourself in the intense colors of the rainforest. Keep your binoculars handy in case you spot a family of monkeys or tropical birds.
There are three terraces throughout the hotel, and each has its own swimming pool. While you’re here you’ll be surrounded by musical birdcalls.
You can visit the spa for skin treatments made with volcanic clay, honey, ginger, and organic cocoa. In addition to massages and facials, you can also visit the spa for a fragrant cup of tea.
At La Luna restaurant you can take cooking classes and learn how to make a few gourmet dishes. La Luna also offers a luxurious wine-pairing menu – perfect for an easy date night.
3. Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Tambopota — Puerto Maldonado, Peru
Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica has luxurious lodges in the Tambopata Reserve that feel far removed from camping.
On the grounds of the lodge you can climb into canopy of the Peruvian Amazon and walk across a series of suspension bridges. There’s also a tree house that is 90 feet (27.4 m) above the ground, and from this lofty perch here you can keep a look out for exotic birds.
Hike to Tambopata Reserve’s famous salt lick, where huge numbers of macaw parrots gather on the face of a clay slope. Take boat rides on the Sandoval Lake and look for turtles, caimans, and endangered giant otters.
4. Belmond Hotel Río Sagrado — Sacred Valley, Peru
The Urubamba River runs past this resort’s property. Belmond Hotel maintains a varied garden near the bank of the river. Arrange for one of the gardeners to give you an informative tour so you can learn about native plants.
There’s an outdoor pool where you can sip pisco sours (Peru’s national drink) and bask in the sunshine of the Sacred Valley. You should also sample the hotel’s good selection of wines.
Miyu Wilka Spa was built from wood and stone, and the sloping glass window provides a floor-to-ceiling view of the grounds. Here you can get a massage or a hot stones treatment, as well as wraps, body scrubs, and facials. The spa also has a Jacuzzi and a sauna, and offers yoga classes.
5. Sol Y Luna Lodge and Spa — Sacred Valley, Peru
Sol Y Luna Lodge and Spa has accommodations spread out over a sunny corner of the Sacred Valley. Landscaping here emphasizes bright profusions of flowers. On the grounds of the hotel you can ride Peruvian horses, see traditional textiles, and visit a ceramics workshop.
In the Yacu Wasí spa you’ll find stained glass and a sunny, colorful atmosphere. You can find spa treatments that include a massage, a trip to the sauna, a dip in the Jacuzzi, and a glass of wine. While you’re here you can activate your circulation with activities like Tai Chi and yoga.
Sol Y Luna’s dining room serves some lovely highlights of Peruvian cuisine. The dining room cultivates an old-world vibe, with colonial furniture and a cozy fireplace.
6. Casa Palopó — Santa Catarina Polopó, Panama
Casa Palopó is near a Maya village called Santa Catarina Palopó. It’s on the edge of Lake Atitlán, which is Guatemala’s deepest and most picturesque lake. You’ll have the best view of the lake from the hotel’s infinity pool, which is situated on the side of a green slope.
Santa Catalina Palopó is home to the Kaqchikel Maya. The Kaqchikel are best known for their weaving. Visit the village market place and browse their incredible wares.
When you’re ready for a massage, visit the hotel’s beautiful Balinese-style spa.
7. Las Clementinas — Panama City, Panama
Come to Las Clementinas for a stay that will immerse you in Panama’s colonial history. This hotel is in the middle of the UNESCO heritage site called Casco Viejo – the historic district of Panama City. From this hotel’s rooftop bar you’ll have a lovely view of the surrounding buildings.
Las Clementinas was built in the 1930s. Hand-painted tiles replicate the original design, and the furniture was especially chosen to reflect the history of the building. This hotel used to serve as an apartment building, and its suites are quite spacious compared to most hotels.
Casco Viejo is an incredible place to walk around. You’ll see incredible examples of colonial churches, as well as some original Spanish fortifications.