Exploring the land of lakes and volcanoes

THIS LESSER-TRAVELLED Central American gem is shaking off its second fiddle past. No longer the understudy to Costa Rica or Belize, the country is ready to share its diverse natural wonders – unspoiled sandy beaches and lush rainforests, naturally, which live in harmony alongside ancient volcanic landscapes and peaceful lagoons.

Adventure is Nicaragua’s middle name: volcano surfing and ziplining are what the cool explorers are doing now; physically exhilarating, yes, but it also serves up luxurious getaway vibes with coastal retreats that are considered among the best in the region. Charming colonial cities are famous for their architecture, superior coffee (good morning!), chocolate (how sweet!) and artisanal crafts share Nicaraguan culture and tradition.

Satana, Rancho, Nicaragua

Rancho Santana, Nicaragua

Getaway experiences, such as those at Rancho Santana – affectionately known as “The Ranch” – allow one to get to know Nicaraguans on a deeper level. The expansive, eco-friendly resort and residential enclave sprawls across 2,700 acres of Nicaragua’s pristine Emerald Coast. Miles of green where raindrops cascades from the rainforest canopy while hummingbirds and butterflies dance around you are a living in-the-moment affair. In the heart of the jungle, the calls of monkeys and the melodies of birds fill the atmosphere with nature’s song.

The Spa, Rancho Santana

The Spa, Rancho Santana

The Ranch features a variety of lodging options, from spacious rooms and suites at The Inn to condo-style residences and homes with ocean views. This seaside escape is both an adventurer’s enclave and a wellness sanctuary. It features five distinct beaches and three swimming pools, along with a sea turtle sanctuary. The Spa in El Bosque is a 6,000-square- foot treetop retreat; yoga is practiced at the ocean-view pavilion. Chefs showcase fresh ingredients from a wealth of sources: the property’s 50-acre farm, its seven- acre garden and by also supporting local suppliers.

It’s here you can feel the thrill of surfing Central America’s top waves, horseback riding on the beach, sandboarding on coastal dunes, hiking, birdwatching and participating in nature tours – all without leaving Rancho Santana. Under the radar? No longer. It seems we’ve let the secret of Nicaragua out.