Quietly nestled in the shadow of the breathtaking Volcán Barú National Park and built on one of the country’s oldest coffee plantations and processing mills, the sprawling 16-acre Los Establos Boutique Resort, part of Elite Island Resorts, offers an unprecedented glimpse into Panamanian paradise. Located in the small mountain town of Boquete, a stay at this resort is an opportune time to relax and indulge in the country’s untamed beauty with an adults-only, all-inclusive getaway. Here’s everything you need to know about Los Establos.
Resort Basics
To help visitors make the most of their experience at the resort, Los Establos lives up to what it means to be all-inclusive. Stay active with unlimited play on the pickleball court, access to the fitness center and a variety of group classes. If a day of soaking up the sun is on the itinerary, the resort’s Oasis Pool, which features a waterfall into a jetted whirlpool, is the perfect place to breathe in the fresh Panamanian air. Most adventure tours, activities and accommodations (taxes, tips and service charges) are included as well, in addition to daily breakfast, lunch and dinner at the in-house dining spot, Irina’s Restaurant.
Off the resort’s property, the quaint town of Boquete is only a quick taxi ride away. With over 20 restaurants serving everything from Peruvian and Italian to American and Lebanese cuisine, there are plenty of tasty dishes to try. Visitors should also check out Boquete Brewing Company, which offers local beer from the Chiriqui High Land, and the numerous shops and stores lining the downtown streets, perfect for grabbing a souvenir or two.
Room Options
Due to Los Establos’ adults-only nature, most rooms are intimate, suitable for up to two guests. The Deluxe is one option, including a queen-size bed and private patio, or upgrade to the Coffee Cottage for a sitting area, private patio and small kitchenette with views of the surrounding coffee plantation. The Suite is located on the second floor and offers a glass-enclosed sitting area overlooking Volcán Barú, while the expansive Premium Suite also features a living room and private furnished terrace. The Deluxe Coffee Cottage is ideal for groups of four and is the largest accommodation on the property. The room includes two queen beds and a private patio overlooking the grounds.
Tours and Activities
As part of the all-inclusive package, a variety of adventure tours and activities are available to guests. Check out some of the options.
Tour at Don Pepe Coffee Estate – Considering that the property is on a coffee plantation, it’s only right that visitors have the opportunity to explore the grounds. Travelers will learn about the entire coffee-making process, from harvesting the bean to varying cultivation techniques that create the different flavors and brews. Finish off the tour with a coffee sampling, even the highly coveted Geisha brew. Fun fact: due to the altitude and rich volcanic soil used to grow the bean, the Geisha brew, sometimes referred to as the “champagne of coffee,” is one of the most expensive types of beans in the world, when done authentically.
Lost Waterfalls Tour – Located only 20 minutes from town, a lush jungle harboring breathtaking sights awaits. Three cascading waterfalls are nestled along the 2.1-mile trail, and guests should be sure to pack swimsuits as they can swim in two of the pools.
Hanging Bridges – An excursion certainly not for the faint of heart, the 2.7-mile route features six suspension bridges above the treetops, the perfect spot to take in the panoramic views of Panama. Adrenaline junkies looking to kick it up a notch should consider ziplining through the gorgeous views instead. If visitors have any extra energy to expend afterwards, on the other side of the bridge course, there are six hiking trails they can explore with hidden rivers and waterfalls.
Other available activities include touring the Cangilones River and white-water rafting. While sunrise or traditional hikes and 4x4 tours of Volcán Barú are not included in the package with Los Establos, it may be a worthy splurge for some travelers and one to consider before arrival.
About the Author
comments