The Highlands - Guatemala - page 227

4 Near the Santiago Dock

Hotel Peneleu $
( 7721-8182; 5a Av 2-20, Zona 2; s/d Q30/60, without bathroom Q20/40; ) The best of four budget
options along a side street, this concrete tower offers well-maintained if modestly fur-
nished rooms. It's all about the views; fly a kite from the amazing top terrace. Genial pro-
prietor Don Alberto will gladly negotiate rates for longer stays. To find it, walk 500m up
from the dock and turn left; or take a tuk-tuk up the steep approach.

HOTEL

Hotel Villa Cuba $
( 7959-5044; www.hotelvillacuba.com ; Camino a la Finca, Zona 4; s/d Q60/120) Peacefully poised on
grounds that sweep down to the lake, this former private residence sits amid cornfields on
the road to Santiago. It's a good deal for getting away from it all: swimming is good here,
and it's only a tuk-tuk away from town. Take the first road to the left up from the dock and
continue for 2km.

HOTEL

Eating

Ventana Blue $
(mains Q30-46; 6-9:30pm Wed-Sun; ) There are just four tables at this cozy bistro at a bend
in the path between the docks. Created by lake native Santos Canel, the brief but exciting
menu features an array of Asian and Guatemalan dishes, from Thai curries to kaq-ik
(chicken and vegetables in a fiery salsa). The Diosa Blue headlines the highly original
cocktail selection.

FUSION

Café La Puerta $
( 4050-0500; 7a Av 2-20; breakfast Q25; 7am-5pm Mon-Sat; ) Relocated to San Pedro Spanish
School after being submerged under rising lake waters, the cafe remains a deeply appeal-
ing spot for abundant natural fare. Breakfast on homemade granola, grainy bread, deli-
cious raspberry jam and avocado milkshakes, all served on beautiful mosaic tile tables by
the sweetest waitresses ever to wear a huipil . Burritos, tacos and quesadillas highlight the
lunch menu.

CAFE

D'Noz $

INTERNATIONAL