Guatemala | Stunning Lake Views from the Imaginative Casa Palopo

On the southwest side of Lake Atitlan, about 15 minutes south of the backpacker enclave and central hub of Panajachel, sits the boutique hotel Casa Palopo. Just up from the main dirt road, the hotel is built into the side of the steep hill that rises up from the lake. The entire property has been designed to take in the unobstructed lake views and focus on the three volcanoes that rise up over the lake.

The brightly covered main house on the outside and in is decorated in paintings from local artists, oversized furniture and local textiles. Stretched out across the front of the building is a patio that looks out over the beautiful lake where guests can dine or lounge. My sister's favorite part of the main house is the large Fernando Botero painting hanging in the bar area.

Above the main house are two additional houses that serve as the main guestrooms. The upper house where we stayed included a separate living area and kitchen and a jaw-dropping infinity pool. From most vantage points you couldn't tell where the pool stopped and the lake began. The guest room was upscale with beautiful furniture, a patio looking out to the lake and an oversized bathroom with, once again, perfectly framed windows to enjoy the views and volcanoes.

The onsite restaurant was actually good! It focused on locally-inspired dishes and fresh ingredients. While significantly more expensive than any restaurants in Panajachel or other lake towns it was reasonable for the location, view and convenience. The restaurant was open throughout the day for meals and drinks. The bar menu was awesome - all the fruits were fresh squeezed. The only problem was how easy it was to order one after another...

The hotel staff was as wonderful as the hotel. The desk attendant was particularly helpful with planning trips and make arrangements. The hotel has a list of activities including private boat tours, volcano hikes, tours of the town and spa treatments that they can book on your behalf which takes the work out of all arrangements.

I adored Casa Palopo. It was beautiful, very affordable compared to similar hotels in other countries and the staff made us feel right at home. I hope to return and hope others have the chance to pay Casa Palopo a visit!