The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in Granada, Nicaragua

Lapped by the freshwater waves of Lake Nicaragua, Jicaro Island is one of around 360 tiny islands off Granada that make up Las Isletas. A tranquil, tropical getaway where the gourmet meals are organic and the wooden casitas have been built from sustainable timbers, it was named one of National Geographic‘s “Unique Lodges of the World.” You’ll get stunning views of Mombacho volcano from the infinity pool. Perfect your downward dog on the yoga deck or explore the islands by kayak.

Like the set for a Vogue fashion shoot, Tribal Hotel is in a colonial house decked out with modern art, tribal rugs from far off lands and quirky antiques. New York restaurateurs Jean-Marc Houmard and Yvan Cussigh designed this space on a quiet street away from the center as their own private retreat, with a boho-chic vibe and an emphasis on comfort. Whitewashed, art-bedecked rooms have balconies overlooking the palm-filled courtyard where four-poster loungers offer a place to laze after a plunge in the pool.

Located in a converted colonial house with terracotta roof tiles, soaring ceilings and dark wood furnishings, this popular boutique hotel is just a few blocks from the main drag. Inside, there’s a small but refreshing pool and good wifi, plus they serve up hearty Nica breakfasts. Staff are friendly and can arrange tours to Las Isletas, the Mombacho volcano and Laguna de Apoyo. Con Corazon means “with heart,” and staying at this social enterprise offers a feel-good factor, as profits support local education initiatives to get kids through school.

El Respiro is a sustainably run hilltop retreat, located 1,150ft (350m) above sea level in lush forest inhabited by howler monkeys and hummingbirds. It’s only 15 minutes from Granada, but feels a world away from the heat of the city. The two-storey lodge captures magnificent views of Granada and Las Isletas below and the majestic Mombacho volcano above. With a farm-to-table ethos, the European owners serve gourmet meals made from their own organic produce, while the pool offers a refreshing diversion.

This charming colonial mansion is conveniently located on La Calzada, the main strip of restaurants and bars that runs down to the lake. Baroque furnishings, checkerboard tiles and lush courtyards make up the hotel interior, which is named after the famous Nicaraguan poet Rubén Darío. Opt for a courtyard room to retreat from the street sounds. The plunge pool in a manicured garden offers a relaxing mid-afternoon splash.

Decorated with vibrant paintings by renowned Nicaraguan artists, there’s an elegance to this beautifully converted colonial mansion that sets it apart from the rest. Located on the central plaza, it is close to all the major attractions, bars and restaurants. Inside, the coveted suites at the front have balconies with unbeatable views across the square to the iconic mustard-yellow cathedral. High ceilings and airy corridors offer respite from the sweltering street, and the swimming pool in a leafy courtyard is long enough for lengths.

With its thatched-roof cabins and bright murals of macaws in the rooms, there’s a distinct jungle vibe at this remote ecolodge in Masatepe. While it is about an hour from Granada, the main draw here is the spectacular panorama that takes in the Masaya volcano and large crater lake below, best enjoyed from the infinity pool. Activities include an evening tour to see the bubbling lava lake and a day trip to the craft market in Masaya.

A gated vacation apartment complex set around a large pool, the Plaza Marbella is aimed at families and couples who want bright, modern space where they can feel at home. Watch TV in your own lounge and explore Granada at your leisure. Fully furnished apartments come with king-sized beds and equipped kitchens, so you can prepare your own meals. The pool area is perfect for lazing away the hottest parts of the day, kicking back with a book or hanging out in the evenings.

This magnificent colonial mansion harks back to the golden age of Granada; it has a pink marble staircase designed by the Italian architect Mario Favilli and a gorgeous blue-tiled central swimming pool that was the first in the city. Rooms are elegant and cozy with dark wood floors, large comfy beds and a coffeemaker stocked with locally sourced, top-quality Nicaraguan beans. The best rooms have balconies that overlook the Iglesia La Merced, which stands opposite. Climb the bell tower for the perfect sunset photo spot.