Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ous karst formations outside Guilin, China. The property sits inside Reserva Privada
Távida. A favorite of Panama's politicos, the lodge has housed former presidents and the
owner has no shortage of stories to tell.
Guests have their pick of rooms in the main lodge, nearby cabins or two exclusive cab-
ins set by a stunning waterfall. The spacious cabins are coolly modern, with large win-
dows, colonial-inspired furnishings and private terraces. The thatched waterfall cabins,
some 10 minutes away by 4WD, luxuriate in privacy. With views and walks right out the
door, the site has an alfresco dining area and hammock terrace where you'll want to laze
the hours away. There is a delicious swimming hole under Cascada de Távida, so bring
your suit. These cabins have fully equipped kitchens in addition to cable TV and hot-wa-
ter showers, which you will find in the main cabins too.
At the restaurant you will find quality dining, with a selection of Chilean wines and
produce fresh from local organic gardens. A holistic spa offers everything from mani-
cures and facials to mud baths with mountain views and herbal oil massages. You can get
here via the paved road to Chiguiri Arriba, 29km to the northeast of Penonomé.
Activities
Guided hiking tours (from US$20 per person) from Posada Cerro La Vieja range from
easy nature walks to arduous treks, taking in river, waterfall and forest scenes. Area wild-
life includes three-toed sloths, night monkeys, deer and armadillos. Four species of tou-
can and many species of hummingbird also live here, and can occasionally be seen from
the comfort of the creek-fed swimming pool.
Getting There & Away
To get here from central Penonomé, take the well-marked turnoff for Churuquita Grande,
several hundred meters northwest of the Hotel Dos Continentes. Proceed past Churuquita
Grande and follow the signs to Chiguiri Arriba and the Posada Cerro La Vieja.
Alternately, go to Penonomé's area bus terminal and take a 'Chiguiri Arriba' bus
(US$2.20, 80 minutes) or
chiva
(pickup truck with bench seating in the back). Buses de-
part at 6am, 10am, 11am and 12:30pm, 2pm, 4:30pm and 6pm.
WORTH A TRIP
