Lush, Lush

Lush, Lush

Lush, Lush

CAYO LEVANTADO

Those who have had the chance to visit Samaná Peninsula claim that all tropical fantasies come true at Cayo Levantado, a tiny, private island in Samaná Bay. Cayo Levantado, with its pale sands washed by turquoise water and hills covered in emerald palm groves is often called a “Bacardi Island” thanks to being the location for numerous TV commercials. The island has three beaches; two of them located on the south side for the exclusive use of guests at the only hotel located on the island, the five-star Gran Bahia Principe. These breathtaking and surprisingly quiet beaches are dotted with sun loungers and white cabanas, and washed by gently rolling waves. On the north coast of the island is the public beach, Playa Grande, where freshly grilled fish and Caribbean-style clapboard shacks can be found brimful with souvenirs.

LAS TERRENAS

Accessed via mountain roads, Las Terrenas occupies a tiny corner of country’s northeastern coast. Over the years, Las Terrenas has transformed itself from a small, dilapidated fishing village into the address of choice for sophisticated visitors from all over the world. Just over two decades ago, an influx of European nationals arrived as tourists, but unable to resist its charm, failed to leave their newly discovered paradise. Their refined taste for interior design and gourmet food has left its mark all over the city. In Las Terrenas you will readily come across Italian delis and French bakeries, as well a Turkish sauna and art galleries of eclectic décor. But even though so many have arrived, the city has succeeded in remaining tucked away retaining its quiet city beach adorned with palm trees, coral reefs, and charming, pastel-painted fishing boats. And if your hunger for exploration yearns for more, a 30-minute drive west of the main town beach will get you to the aptly named Playa Bonita. For and even more serene experience, Playa Cosón takes the lead; situated among leaning coconut trees, it is a priceless venue for peaceful relaxation.

EL SALTO DEL LIMÓN

In the heart of the Samaná Peninsula is El Salto del Limón, a spectacular 150-foot waterfall camouflaged by surprisingly rough landscape, and encircled by peaks covered in dense greenery. After less than a 30 minute horseback ride from the small town of El Limón you can enjoy an invigorating dip in Limón’s refreshing, crystalline waters. It is hard to disagree with Christopher Columbus ,who called Samaná Peninsula the fairest land on the face of the Earth.