Arenosa accommodation from AU$152

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The short version of this review: Paradise at a pleasing price! Our stay at Gatun Lake Lodge was wonderful! Pierre, our host, was entertaining, accommodating, competent, and charming! And, the entire staff was very friendly and helpful. Every meal was fresh and delicious. Our cabaña was very bright, comfortable, and clean. The pool was crystal clear and at the perfect temperature. The grounds were very well kept and full of exotic plants. Many of these beautiful plants are raised to become part of those delicious meals. We hiked every day to different parts of the property that includes beautiful views of Gatun Lake from hill tops, forays into the rain forest where a soothing stream spills into the lake and various birds and sloths live just off the path. One morning, we went on a boat to feed the monkeys, and as a bonus, got to see a giant container ship on the canal. One night, we went out in a little launch with “Lide” to find caymans; what a thrill! I highly recommend both tours; just ask Pierre! For our relaxing, quiet times, we sat on the deck watching the sun rise, sun bathed and floated in the pool, and kayaked in the flower-filled marshes along the lakeshore. One word of warning, stay on the main roads from La Chorrera to get to the lodge. Either via C. Hazia Mendoza or Via Sta. Cruz. DO NOT follow the Google Map route through Nueva Emperador; especially at night! I highly-recommend Lake Gatun Lodge for anyone who loves nature, great food, and nice people!

Care about the aesthetics of where you're staying? This is a beautiful indoor/outdoor pavilion with interesting art and a fabulous outdoor space. There are lots of spaces for four adults to be together or by themselves, and our family loved the house. The location is an easy drive from the airport and is very convenient to bird-watching on Pipeline Road or the launch for many of the canal tours. Logistics for the trip were made so much easier with all the information provided by our hosts. Shopping and dining recommendations were all provided in advance, as well as contacts for other services like in-home cooking or tour guides. The house itself had everything we could think of and then some. Loved our week spent at The Birdhouse!