Private signature journey through Central America

Overlooking the Pacific in Panama City’s vibrant historic quarter, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo is an enticing blend of Belle Époque grandeur and contemporary luxury. Housed in a restored 1917 landmark, the hotel’s hand-painted tiles, arched hallways and wrought-iron balconies reflect its storied past, while sleek furnishings and impeccable service add sophistication. Rooms feature Parisian-inspired design with ocean or skyline views. Enjoy courtyard breakfasts, afternoons by the infinity pool and evenings at Caleta, the hotel’s signature restaurant, where French techniques meet Panamanian flavours.

Hidden among Costa Rica’s most biodiverse and pristine rainforest and marine ecosystems, sustainably operated Playa Cativo is a special place to reconnect with nature and create amazing memories. Boat is the only way to get here, but the warmth of your welcome when you arrive in this remote place is simply wonderful. Its casitas, spread out across the property, are made from reclaimed wood and are stylish and very private. When you’re not out searching for primates and dolphin super-pods, or swimming beneath jungle waterfalls, you’ll enjoy vibrant farm-to-table organic cuisine that showcases the region’s fabulous produce.

Set on a hillside with dreamy views across to Arenal volcano, Nayara Tented Camp is a superb example of how luxury and sustainability can go hand-in-hand. Each of its spacious safari-style tents offer four-poster beds, plunge pools fed by natural hot springs, and open-air showers. Wake to the sounds of howler monkeys and exotic birds before embarking on guided nature walks, spotting sloths, toucans, and colourful frogs along the way. After a day of exploration, unwind in the infinity pool, indulge in a signature volcanic mud spa treatment and enjoy gourmet farm-to-table cooking at the restaurant.

A restored artist’s hacienda within walking distance of colonial Antigua, Villa Bokeh is a sumptuous Relais & Chateaux property in the Guatemalan highlands. Set in lush gardens with sweeping views of Volcan Agua, the hotel’s spacious rooms and suites have an airy, contemporary feel accented with atmospheric black-and-white portraits and stunning local textiles. Meals at the conservatory-style restaurant showcase indigenous Guatemalan ingredients such as chipilin, a local legume, and amaranth seed. When not out exploring, try some of the hotel’s unique experiences like their tasting journey of local corn varietals, or simply relax beneath swaying palms on a pool lounger and drink in the wonderful views.

It’s hard to imagine a more quintessentially Central American setting than that of Casa Palopo. Perched above volcano-ringed Lake Atitlan amid lush flowering vegetation, it’s a magical art-filled sanctuary that very quickly seduces. Once a private home, this boutique retreat now offers a stay that feels deeply personal, with bold, hand-painted colours, indigenous textiles and the odd Botero or two hanging on the walls. Each of the individually styled rooms and suites opens to sweeping views of the lake and its trio of volcanoes, best admired from a private terrace or the infinity pool. The restaurant celebrates local flavours with elevated Guatemalan cuisine, while candlelit dinners on the veranda create a romantic mood.

Set on a restored nineteenth-century hacienda in the Yucatan jungle near Merida, Chablé Yucatan is a meeting of ancient Mayan heritage with luxurious and soulful wellness. Each of the 40 private casitas features indoor-outdoor living, a plunge pool and views of the lush tropical gardens. The award-winning spa is built around a sacred cenote, offering treatments rooted in Mayan healing traditions. At Ixi’im, dishes focus on local ingredients and it holds the world’s largest tequila collection. Days unfold with temazcal rituals, melipona honey tastings, and visits to nearby Maya ruins such as Uxmal and Kabah.