Guest Report
Posted: Thu Jan 01, 2009 5:40 pm
There is little to add to previous reviews, which have all described Castara Retreats and its delights in enthusiastic detail. We stayed in The Rainforest Apartment for one week, and although we had a good idea of what to expect, nothing can really prepare you for the unique experience of living so comfortably in what is essentially the open air, with fabulous panoramic views. We were "wowed" on arrival - and spent almost the whole week idling around the apartment and immediate environs of Castara, there being no need to seek out other experiences. It was enough for us in itself. We ate out and about sometimes, but our best meal was one we cooked for ourselves - with fresh fish bought directly from the local fishermen and baked in tinfoil with some lemon and garlic.
Before arrival, our only fear had been that the village sounds (music, cars etc.) might be intrusive, but mostly they were not. Some strange, quite loud, banging one night turned out to be local youths trying out their home-made bamboo fireworks in the approach to Christmas. Once we knew what it was, it didn't disturb us. By far the loudest sound is the crashing of the waves at night, amplified by the acoustics of the bay. It can wake you up sometimes.....but once you get used to it, it is delightful. Finally, it is probably worth repeating that if you are not comfortable with small, winged visitors and their inevitable droppings, then this is not the accommodation for you!
Porridge called daily to make sure we were OK, but was never intrusive. Tours and trips are never pushed on to you - it is up to you to ask. We found this very refreshing. Our one trip out, a guided walk in Cuffie River Nature Retreat, was pleasant but seriously overpriced, so make sure to ask about prices upfront.
This place ticked all our boxes - we chose carefully and were not disappointed.
Before arrival, our only fear had been that the village sounds (music, cars etc.) might be intrusive, but mostly they were not. Some strange, quite loud, banging one night turned out to be local youths trying out their home-made bamboo fireworks in the approach to Christmas. Once we knew what it was, it didn't disturb us. By far the loudest sound is the crashing of the waves at night, amplified by the acoustics of the bay. It can wake you up sometimes.....but once you get used to it, it is delightful. Finally, it is probably worth repeating that if you are not comfortable with small, winged visitors and their inevitable droppings, then this is not the accommodation for you!
Porridge called daily to make sure we were OK, but was never intrusive. Tours and trips are never pushed on to you - it is up to you to ask. We found this very refreshing. Our one trip out, a guided walk in Cuffie River Nature Retreat, was pleasant but seriously overpriced, so make sure to ask about prices upfront.
This place ticked all our boxes - we chose carefully and were not disappointed.