Hotel San Juan, Ometepe Island

Nestled on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, Hotel San Juan Ometepe is a tropical escape that captures the raw, mystical essence of an island formed by two volcanoes. Located on a sprawling family estate, the hotel offers an unparalleled vantage point where the silhouettes of the Concepción and Maderas volcanoes dominate the skyline. It is a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by the gentle lapping of lake waves and the rustle of monkeys in the citrus groves. Hotel San Juan strikes a perfect balance between adventure and serenity, providing a soulful gateway to one of the world’s most unique freshwater islands.

Rooms & Accommodation

The accommodations at Hotel San Juan are designed to harmonize with the island’s natural beauty, offering a range of private retreats that cater to both comfort and rustic charm.

  • Deluxe Lakefront Cabins: These are the crown jewels of the property, positioned just steps from the water. Built with local materials and large windows, they allow guests to wake up to panoramic views of the lake and the mist-covered volcanoes.

  • Private Rooms & Idyllic Cabins: Scattered throughout the lush gardens, these rooms offer a sense of seclusion and tranquility. With cooling tiled floors, comfortable bedding, and shaded porches, they serve as the perfect sanctuary after a day of island exploration

 

Dining

Dining at Hotel San Juan is a lakefront affair that celebrates the bounty of Ometepe. The open-air restaurant specializes in “Island Soul Food,” utilizing organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate and local farmers. Guests can enjoy a mix of international favorites and traditional Nicaraguan dishes, such as fresh-caught lake fish, sweet plantains, and homemade tortillas. As the sun sets between the volcanic peaks, the restaurant becomes an atmospheric spot to enjoy a cold Toña beer or a tropical fruit smoothie, all while soaking in the cool lake breeze.

 

 Facilities

The hotel’s facilities are designed to embrace the outdoors and the expansive estate it sits upon.

  • Private Lake Access: Unlike many other spots on the island, the hotel offers direct access to a pristine stretch of Lake Nicaragua, perfect for a refreshing morning swim or a sunset stroll along the shore.

  • Expansive Gardens: The property is a botanical haven, filled with fruit trees, tropical flowers, and hammocks strung between palms, inviting guests to slow down and embrace the “island time” philosophy.

  • Social Spaces: Comfortable lounge areas and communal terraces provide spots for travelers to share stories against the backdrop of the towering Concepción Volcano.

 

Activities

Ometepe is a playground for nature lovers, and Hotel San Juan is the perfect base for land and water adventures.

  • Volcano Hiking: Challenge yourself with a guided trek up the steep, active slopes of Concepción or the lush, cloud-forest trails of Maderas.

  • Horseback Riding & Biking: Explore the estate’s hidden trails and the island’s rural backroads on horseback or by mountain bike, passing through local villages and ancient petroglyph sites.

  • Water Adventures: Kayak through the nearby Istián River to spot caimans and exotic birds, or simply enjoy a day of sunbathing on the volcanic sand beaches.

 

Sustainability & Community

Hotel San Juan is deeply committed to preserving the delicate ecosystem of Ometepe, which is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The hotel operates with a “leave no trace” mindset, focusing on organic farming practices and waste reduction to protect the island’s soil and water. As a family-run business, they are a vital part of the Altagracia community, providing local employment and supporting regional conservation initiatives. By staying here, guests contribute to a sustainable model of tourism that respects the island’s ancestral heritage and ensures its volcanic landscapes remain wild and pristine.