Tucked away in the lush greenery of Santa Cruz, Casa Valdres is a haven of tranquility and comfort on the shores of Lake Atitlán. This stunning three-level retreat is ideal for large families or intimate yoga and mindfulness getaways, offering a seamless blend of luxury, nature, and breathtaking scenery.
A Multi-Level Paradise with Stunning Views
Casa Valdres is designed to provide guests with an unforgettable experience at every level. The blooming gardens surrounding the villa create a vibrant, serene atmosphere, where colorful flowers and exotic plants flourish. The spacious pool area invites visitors to unwind in the embrace of nature, with the calming sounds of the forest enhancing the sense of peace and relaxation.
Inside, Casa Valdres offers a luxurious homestay experience, featuring a large, fully equipped kitchen perfect for cooking meals together. The dining table provides ample space for gatherings, while the cozy living room, centered around a fireplace, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The bedrooms, each offering panoramic views of the surrounding nature, provide a restful retreat. Two spacious balconies allow guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery at any time of day.
Ascending to the third-floor balcony unveils a view like no other—a panoramic spectacle overlooking Lake Atitlán, framed by the imposing silhouettes of two volcanoes. This breathtaking vantage point is perfect for savoring morning coffee, practicing yoga at sunrise, or simply soaking in the unparalleled beauty of the Guatemalan highlands. The jungle-like surroundings of Santa Cruz further immerse visitors in an authentic and rejuvenating nature experience.
Elevating Your Stay: Sustainable Tourism Adventures
Beyond the comfort of Casa Valdres, Santa Cruz and its surroundings offer a wealth of sustainable tourism experiences that enhance any visit. These curated adventures provide immersive insights into local culture, conservation, and natural wonders, creating meaningful connections with the land and its people.
Quetzal Birdwatching Adventure with Isaias
For nature enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers, embarking on a guided journey with Isaias, a professional local ornithologist, is an unparalleled experience. The adventure begins in the misty cloud forests of the Santiago volcano, where guests trek through ancient trees and vibrant foliage in search of the elusive quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird. With its dazzling emerald and crimson plumage, spotting a quetzal in the wild is a truly magical moment. Isaias’ expertise ensures an enriching experience, offering insights into the bird’s cultural significance and conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. (Read the full story)
Exploring the Colorful Villages of Lake Atitlán: San Juan & Santiago with Rosa
Lake Atitlán is surrounded by picturesque villages, each with its own unique charm and cultural heritage. Guided by Rosa Tzina, a local expert fluent in English, Spanish, and Tz’utujil, visitors can embark on a journey through San Juan and Santiago—two villages rich in history and tradition. In San Juan, guests meet local artisans, learning the intricate art of Mayan weaving and the significance of the vibrant textiles worn by Indigenous women. A visit to a Mayan bee farm offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of native stingless bees and their sacred role in Mayan culture. Meanwhile, in Santiago, travelers explore the bustling market, visit the revered temple of Maximón, and gain insight into the spiritual and communal life of the local Tz’utujil people. (Read the full story.)
The Santa Cruz Mural Tour & Culinary Delight
A visit to Santa Cruz is incomplete without experiencing its vibrant artistic scene and community-driven initiatives. The Santa Cruz Mural Tour, organized in collaboration with Amigos de Santa Cruz, takes guests through the heart of the town, where colorful murals narrate stories of resilience, tradition, and environmental awareness. These striking artworks serve as a testament to the village’s commitment to cultural preservation and social change.
Midway through the tour, guests are treated to an unforgettable dining experience at a renowned local restaurant nestled in the town’s center. This culinary gem not only offers exquisite traditional Guatemalan dishes but also supports a non-profit educational initiative aimed at empowering the youth of Santa Cruz through vocational training and sustainable tourism programs. (Read the full story.)
An Unforgettable Stay
Casa Valdres is more than just a place to stay—it is a gateway to experiencing the soul of Lake Atitlán. From its lush gardens and breathtaking views to its luxurious homestay experience inside the casa, every aspect of this retreat is designed to inspire, rejuvenate, and connect travelers to the rich culture and natural beauty of Guatemala. Whether you are seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Casa Valdres offers the perfect base for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Lake Atitlán.
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