Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge

This boutique property southwest of Santo Domingo, formerly a family estate, has style normally associated with urban hotels. Accommodations are in 12 casitas (and one hillside suite), all decorated with panache, and a private suite (suitable for up to three people) with its own solarium terrace and infinity pool, both with knock-out sea views; 16 more hillside rooms are under construction, and they will have sea views. Most repeat guests know to take the hotel's meal plan, its restaurant being one of the only options in the area—and certainly the best—for haute Dominican cuisine. The Tanama Spa is tranquil, including a Taíno steam bath, and offers riverside massages. As there are few activities in this rural area, other than ecotours, owner Polibio Schiffino installed a zip line (open to all); fishing excursions can also be arranged.

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