Blancaneaux Lodge

This Francis Ford Coppola-owned property is luxurious to the last detail. The resort is certainly not rustic, though nestled in the lush vegetation of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, it gets the best of both nature and human ingenuity.

Just a short 1 hour and 15 minutes from Belize City, this lodge is nestled at the northern edge of the stunning Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, spanning over 106,353 acres of protected land. This lush area features diverse ecosystems, including pine forests, grasslands, wetlands, and the beautiful Macal River, alongside significant Maya archaeological sites. The property is crossed by Privassion Creek, known for its crystal-clear waters, ancient melastome shrubs, toucans, and even a small population of crocodiles. Guests can embark on adventures like exploring the limestone hills of Noj Kaax Meen Elijio Panti National Park, which is home to endangered species and rare flora. Activities at the lodge include swimming, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, with the Caracol Archaeological Reserve just an hour’s drive away.

One of the lodge's standout features is its natural swimming holes along Privassion Creek, complete with waterfalls and granite boulders. For a more refined experience, guests can enjoy the resort's freshwater infinity pool, adorned with colorful ceramic tiles and surrounded by handcrafted mahogany lounge chairs. Attentive servers are available to provide towels and refreshments from the full bar.

After a day of activities, dining options abound. The Guatemaltecqua Restaurant specializes in a blend of Belizean cuisine, influenced by Caribbean, Mexican, and Mayan traditions. The Montagna Ristorante, inspired by the Coppola family's Italian heritage, offers dishes crafted from ingredients sourced from the lodge’s own organic farm, featuring fresh produce like lettuce, carrots, and herbs alongside exotic fruits. The chef's creations, including beloved stone-oven pizzas, highlight these farm-fresh flavors.

Originally a private retreat for the Coppola family, Blancaneaux Lodge opened to the public in 1993, offering a range of luxurious cabanas. Options include riverfront cabanas, upscale cabanas with private mini infinity pools, and spacious two-bedroom villas with kitchens. The “enchanted cottage” is perfect for artists seeking inspiration, complete with a writing desk and fireplace. Each cabana features native woods, local art, private porches, hammocks, and stunning views.

At the pinnacle of luxury is Francis Ford Coppola’s Villa, which boasts an antique dining table for 14, an espresso machine, a wet bar, and even a private barbecue. This opulent space includes two large bedrooms with Japanese tubs and showcases Coppola’s personal art and antique collection. Each accommodation includes Wi-Fi and locally made bath products, while the villa offers additional luxuries such as monogrammed bathrobes and a full-time personal attendant.

The Waterfall Spa at the lodge delivers a luxurious retreat, with staff trained in ancient Thai massage techniques. Treatments incorporate a variety of salts and herbs, and the hot pool offers breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls, ensuring a serene and rejuvenating experience.