Guest Report
Posted: Mon May 07, 2007 1:18 pm
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.
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.