Cayo Levantado Resort
Have you ever received an invitation that was so unexpected, very exclusive and such an honor to be included? If you close your eyes and reflect on an event in your life similar to when this was you, what are the feelings that come alive? Does it make your heart skip a beat? Maybe you have butterflies in your stomach. Do you suddenly feel the urge to jump up and down? Maybe you let out an internal (or external) squeal!
These are the words I would use to describe how I felt when I received an exclusive invitation to visit a private, secluded island paradise. You are probably asking yourself “where is this paradise”?
Please, allow me to tell you all about it! First, I ask that you indulge me and let go of any preconceived notions about The Dominican Republic because that is where I am taking you. We are most familiar with The D. R’s (as it is more fondly known) Punta Cana, but that is not where this paradise is. In fact, this gem is several hours away from the more touristy Punta Cana.
Cayo Levantado Resort
An all inclusive luxury resort
Located just off the coast of Samana, this island paradise is a luxury resort offering an expertly curated, authentic Dominican experience. Local culture and sustainability are the inspiration of this brand new, high end luxurious property.
The little things matter
Upon arrival at the Resort’s check in, you will be warmly greeted by the staff and immediately feel cared for, like family. The bar at check in is instantly calming with tranquil colors that ground you.
Made with care
The mixologists put so much passion into every beverage they create. They aren’t just making cocktails; they’re sharing a piece of themselves through their creativity and it shows.
Awareness narrowed to just this moment.
What happened next when my private water taxi pulled away from the dock to make the short 10 minute boat ride to the Island itself was so organic and could not have been scripted more perfectly as the boat made its way closer to Cayo Levantado, more and more of the world behind me faded and it seemed as though all distractions vanished with every inch forward.
Arriving at the breathtaking Victorian style dock was just the beginning of a unique and priceless experience.
Personal and Bespoke Service
At Cayo Levantado, each room comes with a personal Ambassador during your stay. The second I stepped off the boat, my Ambassador, Eddy, offered me a moistened cloth to refresh and a freshly prepared Morir Sonando (traditional Dominican juice).
Eddy escorted me through the lobby, a stunning representation of the resort’s overall aesthetic, and up the stairs (not to worry, there is an elevator, I just like to take the long way) to my suite on the third floor. The room was strikingly beautiful with magnificent views of the Caribbean.
After I took a moment to take in the view Eddy asked me what I wanted to do next? I arrived later in the afternoon and I knew the sun would be setting soon so I asked Eddy to take me down to the beach so I could watch the sunset. To say I had a moment with this sunset, the crashing waves in the background and nobody else in sight, is an understatement. I was the only person on the beach that evening and it felt like my own personal paradise.
Welcome gift in my room
Since I ran out to catch the sunset, my Ambassador Eddy left me a lovely and much appreciated snack in my room before my dinner later that evening.
Dining
Dining Options at Cayo Levantado are not what you would expect for an all inclusive resort and that is what makes it unforgettable.
There are 5 restaurants at the resort and no two are alike. The menu, the setting and the experience is unique at each restaurant.
On my first night I had a dinner reservation at Senda. A culinary journey through Dominican cuisine and culture offering 5 courses. I began with the welcome cocktail (lemongrass & acacia honey macerated gin with sparkling wine). The first course was grilled sanchez shrimp which was delicious! For my second course I had the beetroot ravioli with local goat cheese. It was delectable. Next was the wild rice in the garden dish, followed by roasted lamb leg. Finally it was time for dessert, a special treat in itself with cookies, petit fours, macaroons, confectionery sweets and housemade mamajuana (Dominican spiced alcoholic beverage).
Meet me at the Hotel Lobby Bar Coa
The vibe is energetic and sophisticated. The thoughtfully curated menu is one to be reckoned with; however what makes Coa even more special is the mixologist behind the bar. Ivan, the head mixologist, has a level of creativity that is out of this world. I am personally a huge fan of Mezcal. There doesn’t seem to be a very long list of cocktails made with Mezcal. It’s tricky, it’s complex and isn’t for everyone. Except Ivan. I asked Ivan to make me a drink with Mezcal (partly to test him and myself). That was my only request, the rest was up to him. What I got in return was hands down the best cocktail with Mezcal I’ve ever had! It had the perfect balance of smoky, sweet and citrus. Well done Ivan, cheers!
Since this isn’t a food blog, I won’t load you up with food & drink photos, but I will tell you that every meal and every cocktail elevated my expectations for the next one and I was never disappointed, only more impressed.
Wellness Experiences
Part of what makes the Resort special is that it offers a unique and personalized wellness experience for those guests desiring to reset. You don’t need to be an experienced Yoga or meditation student to take part in a wellness approach. You don’t actually have to make this part of your stay even, it’s completely up to you. Being present each day and listening to what your needs are for that day is exactly what this secluded paradise invites.
One of the wellness offerings is at the Yubarta wellness center where you can take part in a variety of holistic treatments and activities designed to rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit. Some of the exercises include morning breathwork on the beach, sound healing therapies, and meditation.
(Morning breathwork on the beach)
My wellness approach
For one of my experiences, I chose a hydrotherapy route for an afternoon. I wanted to experience something completely different. This included a sensory shower, a steam room, sauna and heated indoor pool all inside a tranquil setting with large windows, but secluded from any foot traffic nearby. Included in the hydrotherapy was a cold plunge! I intentionally challenged myself to face my fears and do it! Let me just explain to you that I hate being cold and wet on top of cold is even worse! I hate the idea of it, I hate the word (ok, I know that is a bit dramatic)! Those of you who echo these sentiments, you get it! I had no idea what to expect. Thankfully there were some instructions for me to follow. I was the only one in the hydrotherapy area, probably best for others. I “dipped” three times. The last time forcing myself to immerse fully up to my neck. It was painful, but so invigorating, freeing and empowering! I now can say that I understand, through experience, the benefits physically and emotionally. I won’t be setting up a cold plunge tub on my patio just yet, but I am truly grateful for the experience.
(Cold plunge pool)
Sound healing experience
My other favorite wellness experience was the sound healing. The term just sounds (see what I did there?) therapeutic. Beginning in a relaxed setting outdoors with the sounds of nature in the background and ocean breeze gently blowing through the cabana, I immediately felt comfortable and ready to receive all the benefits of this ancient practice. The elite professionals leading the small group through the process instantly puts you into a trance. Then the sounds begin, a balanced flow between chimes, singing bowls, drums and kong took me even deeper into relaxation and harmony. I can’t tell you how long this experience lasted (I didn’t care to ask afterwards) because the depth of relaxation I experienced was everything I needed to gain from the experience.
What if I’m not into wellness?
This is why I fell in love with Cayo Levantado! It’s not just a wellness resort, it is a place for anyone! Families, couples (especially honeymoons or anniversaries), friends and retreats. There is plenty to do at the resort, without needing to leave the island. Local workshops, live music, beach parties, watersports, non-motorized adventures, and Conservation activities. There are even personal training sessions available to guests.
Additional Amenities onsite
2 outdoor pools, 6 bars and lounges, Spa & fitness center. While the resort is great for families, there is no kids club. All the activities are appropriate for children and encouraged for children to have hands-on experiences.
Accommodations
There are many different types of rooms at the resort to choose from. Starting with junior suites, these are very spacious, well appointed and equipped with all the luxuries decorated in the tranquil colors of the sea and Caribbean intended to welcome and ground you.
One and two bedroom private villas with plunge pool, beachfront villas (adults only), as well as private residences for multi family guests (optional chef included).
Last, but certainly not least!
I think you get the picture of just how special this resort is, but just in case you need a little more proof, every evening with your turn down service, your personal Ambassador leaves a local artisan gift in your room, complete with the tale of the artifact. This became something I looked forward to each night and I got to bring home that special piece of Samana with me.
Leaving Cayo Levantado
The memories, the experiences and the beautiful people of Samana are treasures that I will carry with me throughout life.
This is why I travel. This is why I love selling travel to you, your families, your friends. Travel broadens the mind. Travel can be life changing. Travel forces us out of our comfort zone and leads to personal growth.
My Discovery of Samana, the secluded island was “Pura alegria”!
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For any inquiries, please contact:
Nancy McCarroll
Fall: Seasonal Travel in 2021