Cuffie River Nature Retreat - Reader Reports & Opinion
Excellent Nature Resort With Wonderful Food
Colin Bond from U.K. visited in February 2008 and awarded 
The 2 of us (in our 60's and not terribly good at walking) had a 4 night stay at Cuffie River and it was a bit of a special treat for us in that we usualy self cater and don't pay quite so much. However it was lovely.We walked 3 miles around the estate with Desmond at a nice slow pace and he gave us loads of information about the plants and birds in a very friendly manner. Then the food was wonderful although maybe not if you don't care too much for spices. It was just home carribean cooking,no choice, but all lovely. We are not avid birdwatchers (although some of the other guests were) but loved to see the Hummingbirds and others just fly right through the rooms and down corridors. The place itself is in the middle of the forest in a extremely peaceful setting. WE both highly recommend it to anyone interested in nature and who wants to relax

A Superb Stay
Donna M. Tatnall from U.S.A. visited in October 2007 and awarded 
My husband and I just returned from a week at Cuffie River. I can't think of a way it could have been better. Regina, the managing director,is a warm and talented person who seems to enjoy nothing as much as delighting her guests. The staff is quietly attentive. The rooms are comfortable, casually lovely.
Meals are beautifully served and delicious. This is not a party place, but a quiet corner of paradise filled with birds, plants, and sunshine. Highly recommended.

Total Relaxation!
K.Armstrong from Ireland visited in June 2007 and awarded 
My husband and I stayed at Cuffie River for 3 nights mid June.
Being low season we weren't sure what to expect but the standards were excellent. Regina was there to greet us on arrival, and she made sure we were well looked after for the whole stay – she has a wonderful way with people, and really makes you feel welcome as well as enjoying a good laugh!
We had changed around our dates not long before our arrival to ensure we could book into the executive suite and were not disappointed – the room was the largest we have ever stayed in, windows all round with stunning rainforest views, a beautiful sitting area, and an absolutely huge bed!
The food was the best we had during our stay on Tobago – we opted for the all inclusive package, and although there was no choice of menu for lunch and dinner we couldn't have faulted any of the dishes – in fact not having to make a choice was part of the relaxation! We also enjoyed the company of other guests (only 6 of us in total at that time), and found the evening meal in particular to be a great social event. The little hummingbirds which buzz around during breakfast were also a highlight.
Having been out and about around the island before arriving at Cuffie we chose not to stray too far during our stay there. When we were not eating or taking a nap in our room we spent time swimming in the elevated pool and walking some of the forest trails. We did quite a bit of walking by ourselves and had no difficulty picking out some good routes without getting lost – however we particularly enjoyed our walk with Desmond, who was able to spot many birds and interesting things that we had completely missed whilst out by ourselves. He is a great guide and very enthusiastic about sharing his home surroundings.
As you can see we found Cuffie river the perfect place to stay if you need a few days of total relaxation – just what the Dr ordered!!

A Fantastic Stay!
Anthony Townsend from U.K. visited in April 2007 and awarded 
Firstly apologies it has taken so long to write a report.
I had read so much about Cuffie River and we couldn't wait. Regina and the team made us so welcome, which isn't always the case when you turn up with two kids. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. The cold freshly made drinks on our arrival were most needed. Go for the lemonade!
Our room was very spacious and comfortable – just what we needed. You will struggle to find more delicious homemade food anywhere on the island. Please don't miss this treat. We still rave about the soups. It's a great idea to have dinner together with the other guests. You don't have to, but we all got along and had lots of stories to share.
The swimming pool was a real bonus after a long day. Please do take advantage of the walk around the area with Desmond. He has such a great knowledge of the local plants and animals from showing you the common potoo and nightjars to explaining local history and cutting you some sugar cane.
Thank you Regina and your team for a special time. We look forward to coming back soon.

Cuffie River Nature Retreat
Dawn And Trevor Coote from U.K. visited in April 2007 and awarded 
We had spent 8 nights in Castara but needed to find alternative accommodation for our last 5 nights so we decided to book somewhere as a contrast and Cuffie River was just that. Being in amongst the forest greenery, the temperature was slightly cooler and there was a feeling of tranquillity.
The swimming pool was an added bonus and meant that we didn't miss the sea for too long. There is a covered area above the self-catering rooms with a table-tennis table and dartboard, although we used it for reading and watching the birds in the shade.
Sugar feeders are all around the buildings bringing hummingbirds and bananaquits in close. A mockingbird had built a nest at the entrance to reception and 3 babies flew the nest the day before we left, which was lovely to see.
A walk with Desmond took us through the grounds and he showed us several birds and explained about the trees. Luckily for me though he wasn't able to get a tarantula out of its hiding place. The Common Potoo is a sight to see, sitting completely motionless while protecting its baby on a bamboo stump.
There is a real homely feel which Regina has managed to get just right, the staff are quietly efficient and friendly. Dinner is taken with all the guests eating together on one table, which makes it feel as though you're at a friend's house and results in some good conversation.
We had booked full-board but meals are flexible according to your plans and Yvonne made a packed lunch for us to take out one day of sandwiches, bread pudding and watermelon with water and juice. All the meals were excellent and a good variety, even the breakfast had 3 courses!
We have awarded 4 stars, rather than 5, as our room was just above reception which meant that we had some noise from cars arriving early in the morning bringing staff to the hotel (not helped by the habit of tooting the car horn constantly). Apart from that, for a relaxing, chill-out holiday, this is the place – next time we'll treat ourselves to a stay in the Executive Suite.
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