A Romantic Equestrian Escape to Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize
What could be more romantic than a sunset horseback ride? What about riding to a secret waterfall, hidden deep within a tropical paradise? You can do both at Blancaneaux Lodge, located deep in the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve close to the border with Guatemala and a variety of Maya ruins in the Central American country of Belize.
by Darley Newman
This is the perfect escape for those looking to recharge and add a little romance to their vacation. Popular with honeymooners, filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, who visited the remote jungle setting in the 1980’s, created this boutique, luxury resort. Strolling the grounds, you may feel like you’re on a movie set. It's jungle perfect with colorful flowers adorning the well-kept stables and shaded walkways and birds that seem to fly by on cue.
Riding the trails at Blancaneaux Lodge. Photo credit Francis Ford Coppola Resorts.
I felt the exotic vibe as I saddled up to film at Blancaneaux Lodge for Equitrekking. We did several rides, taking us through pine forests, rainforests and to a stunning waterfall. All of this was complimented by the lush surroundings at the lodge.
After you’ve enjoyed a locally sourced meal with fruits and vegetables grown in Blancaneaux’s own organic garden, meander over to the stables to explore the area. I recommend the ride to Big Rock Falls. This approximately two-and-a-half hour excursion is relaxed enough even for your non-riding spouse or companion.
Definitely try a mojito at the Jaguar Bar. Photo credit Francis Ford Coppola Resorts.
Passing through forested trails, home to a variety of rare flora and fauna, you’ll journey to a secluded waterfall located in a more lush section of the forest. If you’re lucky, which I was on my trip, you’ll have the falls all to yourself. It’s here, after a short hike down, that you’ll want to have worn your bathing suit.
Jumping into the cool waters by this impressive waterfall is exhilarating. For those seeking an added thrill, your guide may show you a spot where you can enjoy an electrifying leap off the rocks to plunge into the deep pool below. If you’ve ever had visions of swimming under a waterfall to enjoy your own version of a natural massage, this is the place to do it.
Back at the lodge, indulge in a signature cocktail at the eclectic Jaguar Bar or cozy up in your private cabaña. These thatched-roof retreats, tastefully decorated with antiques from Guatemala and colorful hand-made tiles, boast indulgent amenities like personal mineral-salted plunge pools and expansive decks. Best of all, as you fall asleep to the sounds of the Privassion River, which powers the resort’s own hydroelectric plant, you can feel good about staying at an eco-friendly, sustainable resort.
Even the pool area feels exotic at Blancaneaux Lodge. Photo credit Francis Ford Coppola Resorts.
Learn more about great places to saddle up in the Equitrekking Vacation Guide, an online guidebook dedicated to global equestrian vacations. Check out our other resources for parents and kids learning to ride or working on brushing up their skills, including the new Horse Camps Guide and Top20Ranches.com.
