San Simian Lodge

A trip to Nicaragua would not be complete without visiting Laguna de Apoyo. While close to the sights and sounds of Granada, it is a world apart. The Laguna offers a slower pace, with tranquil surroundings, wildlife, and a great place to take a swim. It has always been one of my favorite spots, and I’ll often begin and end my trip there. It is convenient to Granada, and a little over an hour to the airport. Over the years, my go to accommodation on the Laguna continues to be San Simian. It is a bit away from the other accommodations on the Laguna, and as such, has tranquil surroundings, without a lot of noisy day trippers. Paradise. The landscaping of the property is awesome, with a wide variety of species. I’m a horticulturalist - count me impressed. The cabanas are situated along the hill, down from the office/restaurant. They have hammocks and/or furniture conveniently right outside. These are found throughout the property as well. Cabañas have comfortable beds/bedding and outdoor bathrooms. Hot water and nice, thick towels are provided. Bottle water/glasses provided. Ceiling fans. Good lighting (interior and exterior). WiFi is accessible throughout the property. Meals can be taken at the restaurant or Laguna-side at the bar. The menu is varied, the appetizers and main course items are well-prepared, tasty, and reasonably priced. There is a wide variety of cold beverages available. The owners are knowledgeable and friendly (as are the staff). Daniel can make travel recommendations and arrange transportation with a reliable driver. Over the years, I’ve watched the property and service evolve, always improving - no complacency. Consistency is a trademark of San Simian. Granada is a quick 30 minutes away. Visit it, and return to the Laguna - you’ll sleep better, and wake-up in paradise the next morning. Watch the sunrise. Take an early morning swim, out to the floating dock, and watch the frigate birds and kingfishers. Have the Nica breakfast. Grab a hammock. Pop a Toña. Listen/watch the howlers. Watch the sunset. Grab a float and stargaze. Do it all over again. Be sure to book several nights - you won’t regret.

Quaint and cozy with a relaxing atmosphere. The landscaping is lush, and with plenty of hammocks, you can enjoy relaxing in the shade. The spacious cabins have comfortable beds, and the open-air shower is a must-try. The free breakfast options are tasty, the coffee is excellent, and with lunch and dinner options you don't have to interrupt your day of relaxation. The bar area is welcoming and there are many drink options to enjoy. Kayaks and snorkel equipment are available to explore the lagoon and a floating platform is not far from the shore. The property is on a slope with the road at the top and paths leading down to the cabins and the lake shore. The paths are cobbled so rolling luggage is inconvenient and may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The lodge is centrally located between Granada and Masaya making it a good HQ for day trips to the surrounding areas. The owner and staff are friendly and helpful. I will definitely return to San Simian Lodge.

Back in the Laguna in March, I stayed again at San Simian and was able to check-out their recently constructed cabina - Limon. Limon sits up the hill near the road and restaurant. The modern design and bright color set is apart from the other cabinas. Additionally, it is a two- story structure with a balcony overlooking the Laguna. Limon actually consists of two separate bedrooms and two baths, interconnecting to a spiral stairway than ascends to an large open sitting area with dining table and chairs, a couple of bench seats and lounger chairs. There is a widescreen TV, internet, a wet bar, and ceiling fans. It is a nice comfortable spot to hangout and relax. It is open all the way around, providing good ventilation. One bedroom features a queen bed and the other bunk beds. Each bedroom has air conditioning and its own indoor bathroom. The rooms can be rented individually, as I did solo, or together - idea for a group or family. I also took note of recent renovations to Mango and Papaya, both reconfigured, and with Mango gaining an outdoor bathroom. Bathhouses down by the beach bar have been expanded and the bar has been renovated. The landscape continues to evolve with new plants being added. I stayed for several days on the front and end of my trip. The food and service were excellent as usual. Very tranquil.