B'alam Ya

Panajachel is one of the most popular towns along Lake Atitlán. The town is set along the northern shores of the lake in a beautiful location that overlooks volcanoes, mountains, and the clear blue water of Lake Atitlán. The town itself is hip and has a good assortment of shops, restaurants, and bars. Outside Panajachel travelers can enjoy kayaking, hiking, zip lining, and swimming.

B’alam Ya is absolutely beautiful. This small hotel has just four individual villas set along a secluded part of the lake. The accommodations are gorgeous and comfortable, and the views are to-die-for. What more could you want?

The villas are spacious and artistic. All are designed carefully and built with local materials. Rich original artwork and local hardwoods lend warmth to the interior. Wooden floors, vaulted ceilings, and huge windows are a mainstay in every villa.

The villas vary in the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, but all have master bedrooms with a comfy king- or queen-size bed—from some beds you can enjoy unobstructed views of the lake. Spacious adjoining bathrooms have both a Jacuzzi tub and separate shower. The tub is a heavenly place to relax after a day spent exploring the nearby area. One villa even enjoys exclusive access to a hot tub, where you can soak and sip champagne under the stars.

There are expansive terraces where guests can lounge outdoors—needless to say, the views from here are incredible. The indoor living rooms are set with comfortable couches and a fireplace that invite you to sit, chat, or enjoy a drink. All villas have a fully-equipped kitchen that allows you to cook whatever you’re craving; alternative, you can have a private chef prepare meals for you within the comfort of your home. There are also outdoor dining areas that are perfect for barbecuing on warm nights.

Guests are encouraged to enjoy the hotel’s complimentary kayaks and canoes. The hotel has numerous places to swim, snorkel, and lounge outdoors. Guests can take a siesta in a secluded hammock, watch the sunset from a private dock, or search for birds in the tropical gardens. Yoga can be practiced in a lakeside palapa and massages can be enjoyed on your own terrace.