Located in Nicaraguan nature reserve Laguna de Apoyo overlooking the city of Granada, the recently opened Pacaya Lodge & Spa has been crafted by Atlanta-based Cooper Carry in collaboration with local architect Patricia Somarriba. The eco-resort’s 26 luxury villas overlooking the lake incorporate indigenous architecture using local craftspeople and materials, as well as locally made furniture and art.
A traditional Nicaraguan courtyard welcomes guests, leading to an open-air reception, bar, and restaurant. Materials such as tile, wood, and stucco abound, accenting the setting that immerses visitors in surrounding tropical habitat. The resort also features meeting spaces, and a private spa.
The 26 open-air cottages are linked through meandering paths, placed in relation to the site’s unique topography, that lead to a zero gravity pool. Each guestroom boasts panoramic views over the jungle canopy.
Pacaya Lodge & Spa is the vision of Atlanta developer David Allman, founder and chairman of Regent Partners. A nearby high school—Opportunity International Nicaragua’s Emprendedora—was conceived in conjunction with the project, an opportunity for rural students to gain an education in hospitality management and service. Portions of the property’s profits are reinvested into the school, and Cooper Carry provided its services pro bono.
