San Simian Lodge

A trip to Nicaragua would not be complete without visiting Laguna de Apoyo. While close to the sights and sounds of Granada, it is a world apart. The Laguna offers a slower pace, with tranquil surroundings, wildlife, and a great place to take a swim. It has always been one of my favorite spots, and I’ll often begin and end my trip there. It is convenient to Granada, and a little over an hour to the airport. Over the years, my go to accommodation on the Laguna continues to be San Simian. It is a bit away from the other accommodations on the Laguna, and as such, has tranquil surroundings, without a lot of noisy day trippers. Paradise. The landscaping of the property is awesome, with a wide variety of species. I’m a horticulturalist - count me impressed. The cabanas are situated along the hill, down from the office/restaurant. They have hammocks and/or furniture conveniently right outside. These are found throughout the property as well. Cabañas have comfortable beds/bedding and outdoor bathrooms. Hot water and nice, thick towels are provided. Bottle water/glasses provided. Ceiling fans. Good lighting (interior and exterior). WiFi is accessible throughout the property. Meals can be taken at the restaurant or Laguna-side at the bar. The menu is varied, the appetizers and main course items are well-prepared, tasty, and reasonably priced. There is a wide variety of cold beverages available. The owners are knowledgeable and friendly (as are the staff). Daniel can make travel recommendations and arrange transportation with a reliable driver. Over the years, I’ve watched the property and service evolve, always improving - no complacency. Consistency is a trademark of San Simian. Granada is a quick 30 minutes away. Visit it, and return to the Laguna - you’ll sleep better, and wake-up in paradise the next morning. Watch the sunrise. Take an early morning swim, out to the floating dock, and watch the frigate birds and kingfishers. Have the Nica breakfast. Grab a hammock. Pop a Toña. Listen/watch the howlers. Watch the sunset. Grab a float and stargaze. Do it all over again. Be sure to book several nights - you won’t regret.

Another quiet paradise on earth! The peaceful sweetwater Laguna di Apoyo invites for a swim, kajaks and floating aides available. The beach is pebbly and beachshoes are a good idea! The nicely decorated, typical palm-roofed cabanas with open air bathroom are clean and beds surrounded by a moscito net for the night. Only the biggest cabana (6 beds) has Aircon, all others have a fan. Very good cuisine and quite a diverse menu for all tastes. Even the wine menu, though small, offers good quality wine. Breakfast with all these wonderfully delicious different fruit are so refreshing, original in taste and only available here, fresh from the trees! The San Simian Lodge is located between the unmade road and the beach accessible by descending some 60 steps, the restaurant being at the top and there is a bar just above the beach open for lunch and drinks as well. The staff are all very friendly and Raquel and Daniel are wonderful hosts, helpful in any way, organising transport to the airport or tours around the laguna. As mentioned, if you are looking for a quiet, nice and cosy little place off the beaten tourist paths, this is it! Thanks for everything Raquel and Daniel, keep going! Best value for money in Nicaragua!

We felt spoiled here! Accommodations are wonderful..the beds were comfortable the sheets were soft, the bath towels were large. (we stayed in the two bedroom family casita with our two teenage sons). The views of Laguna de Apoyo are beautiful. It was nice to have breakfast included in the stay as well as restaurant onsite open all day for food and beverages. The resort organized a massage therapist come one afternoon which was fantastic! The grounds are full of plants and flowers and beautiful walkways, and many cute areas to relax with hammocks and lounge chairs, etc Recommendation, Do speak with the owners about any outside activities. They are extremely kind and knowledgeable. We made an evening trip to Masaya Volcano, only to find out that it was closed for several weeks due to a landslide. (would have been avoided if we had spoke to the owners first :)

Laguna de Apoyo is my favorite stop in Nicaragua and San Simian is my perfect place to experience the Laguna. I discovered LdA and San Simian 10 years ago and keep coming back. The property is well-kept and inviting. The lakeside accommodations are just steps away from the crystal clear Laguna. I always get a good night’s rest. There is often a nice breeze blowing in from the Laguna, keeping the temp a little cooler than the surrounding area. Awaken to a beautiful sunrise as the sun peeks over the rim of the crater. The food is excellent, well-prepared, and reasonably priced. Owner and staff care about making your stay enjoyable. They are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. The owner can help you make plan and arrange transfers. His driver is excellent - friendly, on time, and safe. And the long promised improvements to the road were underway while I was there. San Simian is definitely off of the beaten track. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

We stayed two nights while traveling around Nicaragua and fully enjoyed this perfectly located and managed eco-lodge! Daniel, the owner, is very helpful as is his entire staff! The food is delicious with fresh ingredients including a wide selection of yummy smoothies!! It’s the perfect place to relax! We’ll be back one day!! Andreas