La Esmeralda: Exotic, Breathtaking & Private Lakeside Villa.

2012 is a very special year for the Maya, and La Esmeralda at Lake Atitlan is the perfect place to enjoy this spectacular and mystifying time in history. The ancient Mayans used to call this celestial lake, “the navel between the heavens and the earth” (ri muxux caj uleu). A thousand years later, Lake Atitlan continues to enchant and dazzle visitors, inspiring Aldous Huxley to pen its famous slogan as “the most beautiful lake in the world.”

And it’s easy to see why.

Lake Atitlan boasts some of the most breathtaking and majestic natural scenery in the world. These expansive and glittering emerald-green waters are surrounded by towering volcanoes, rocky cliffs, lush highlands, and coffee groves. Twelve towns steeped in ancient Mayan history and tradition dot the surrounding hills. And after the sun sets and night creeps onto the lake, each town twinkles in the distance underneath a canopy of stars.

La Esmeralda is a labor of love designed for the traveler who seeks to experience the raw, natural beauty this destination offers in a peaceful and luxurious sanctuary. The property was newly & completely renovated in 2011! Here are three of the most important facts that distinguish La Esmeralda and make it so special:

1. Location: South Side of the Lake (Car-Free)
La Esmeralda is on the southern and car-free side of the lake in Punta Tzanguacal, a peaceful inlet located between the two traditional and sleepy fisherman villages of Cerro de Oro and San Lucas Toliman. Accessible only by boat or footpath, the villa maintains a private and exclusive atmosphere. The south side of the lake is quiet, tranquil, and pristine with none of the pollution and noise that is abundant on the north side. And yet, Panajachel and the main towns on the north side of the lake are only a 15-minute boat ride away. We are happy to meet you on the dock in San Lucas Toliman on arrival and arrange your water-taxi ride to the house.

2. The Design & Layout
Our villa features two luxury waterfront chalets that are peacefully secluded and only accessible by boat or by footpath. Dramatically perched on a cliff with beautiful stone murals and tropical gardens, you will enjoy breathtaking views in a magical atmosphere.

Our two light-filled and beautifully appointed chalets offer spectacular views of the lake from every room. With cathedral ceilings made from exquisite cedarwood, hand-cut stone walls, and hand-painted talavera tiles, the villa showcases authentic, local materials while sustainably coexisting with the very environment that drew you to this region.

The main chalet houses up to 5 guests and includes two separate suites each with its own private entrance and bath. You will love the large outdoor terrace that wraps around the house, perfect for al fresco dining and star-gazing. In the master suite you will enjoy curling up to your own private fireplace. The second guest suite is located on the lower level, and opens up to its own private garden area with hammock. Our full gourmand kitchen with stainless steel appliances is a chef's dream, stocked with everything you need to whip up fresh, delicious meals and drinks. The kitchen opens up to a combined living & dining area with a cozy fireplace.

The junior chalet houses up to 7 guests. It boasts a master bedroom with private balcony and fireplace. A separate guest bedroom has two bunkbeds. The chalet includes a wonderful kitchenette and open living & dining area. You will enjoy taking steaming hot showers in the large & expansive bathroom located on the lower level.

There is one acre of stunning gardens to explore, with plenty of nooks where you can sit back, relax, and soak up the view. Ask Miguel to help you pick some fresh limes and mint from our organic garden for a mouthwatering Mojito. We provide hammocks and chaise lounges for your ultimate comfort and relaxation.

3. Amenities
We have taken care of every detail to make sure your stay with us is lovely and unforgettable. After a day of kayaking, swimming, hiking, and exploring, you will enjoy soothing your sore muscles with a hot shower and our plush Egyptian cotton towels. You will also appreciate a heavenly night’s rest on our deluxe mattresses with luxuriously soft high threadcount sheets. We also provide you with all sorts of gear for fun & relaxing including kayaks, snorkeling equipment, hammocks, and comfortable chaise lounges. We also provide you with the necessaries such as complimentary spring water, delicious and organic Guatemalan coffee, and a safety deposit box.

A 24-hour caretaker resides on site to assist you with all of your needs, including stocking up the kitchens with fine wines, spirits, and snacks available at an additional charge.

Keywords: villa, bungalow, chalet, casita, cottage, vacation rental, vacation home, private, tranquil