Belize's Blancaneux Lodge
Blancaneux Lodge
An Apocalypse Now style jungle paradise, this is what Francis Ford Coppola found when he ventured into the lush scenery of Belize in search of the future site in which to grow the premier accommodations that would bear his name. Secluded in the verdant surroundings of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, the formerly abandoned lodge by the name of Blancaneaux, now stands as one of the countries finest luxury retreats. Accessible only by a two and a half hour drive along the bumpy Pine Ridge Road, or better yet, by private plane, the lodge rests on 80 acres and offers a delightful array of thatched villas and cabanas. Some boast open air living areas, and all provide divine Central American furniture and hand woven textiles, hand picked by Coppala and his wife.
Blacaneux’s restaurant, Montagna, offers a delectable variety of gourmet dishes, including homemade pizza’s and specialties of Belize and Coppala label wine. Swim in the serene river, hike the lush greenery of the nature reserve or tour the impressive Maya ruins nearby…all before retreating to the spa for a relaxing Thai massage.
