Ambergris Caye, Belize
El Secreto Belize
Contemporary & Secluded Tropical Escape of 13 Villas
A hotel that has really upped the stakes in Ambergris Caye, El Secreto is a mix of high-tech design, natural decor and personalised privacy.
Located 11 miles north of San Pedro (or 30 minutes drive) this intimate 13-villa resort borders a nicely secluded beach, and is accessible only by boat via the hotel’s pier for added exclusivity and that feeling of true escape.
The tropical decor is a shrewd mix of contemporary and traditional in the form of its thatched, naturally-styled villas that blend into its Caribbean context yet possess some very high tech amenities and fittings on the inside such as state of the art LED lighting system, iPod dock, coffee maker and king size bed. It’s no wonder this hotel is a member of Design Hotels and awarded Best Newcomer 2014 by Conde Nast Johansens.
With four categories of villa to choose from, friendly service, a full spa, delectable international cuisine with twists of the Belizean, plus a large menu of water sports activities, this is a wonderful hotel for couples looking for a tropical escape that’s bang up to date.
Highlights
Diving, snorkeling and fishing at the nearby Barrier Reef and Blue Sink hole
Water sports
Tours to Altun Ha, local ruins
13 villas
Spa
Restaurant
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine El Secreto Belize with
Mountain Pine Ridge
Located within the tranquil expanse of Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge, Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge was originally a logging home. Spanning 7,200 acres of lush forest and rolling hills, this reserve has become a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
The Garden Cottages offer a perfect escape, crafted with locally sourced mahogany furniture, luxury linens and spa-inspired amenities, including handmade soaps. Each suite features a cozy wood-burning fireplace, inviting you to unwind as the crackling fire casts a warm glow in the evenings. With stunning views and expansive sitting areas, these rooms serve as a peaceful sanctuary to retreat to after a day of exploration. You can also choose to stay at the Fire Tower. Inspired by traditional fire lookout towers, this four-story retreat rises above the forest canopy, granting uninterrupted 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Meanwhile the villas are perfect for couples or families, offering extended living spaces as well as a private heated plunge pool.
The property offers an array of activities tailored to all types of adventurers. With knowledgeable guides, embark on bird-watching excursions, guided nature walks or even yoga sessions that connect you to the tranquil surroundings. Hike through winding trails, observing native wildlife in their natural habitat or enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear natural pools beneath cascading waterfalls. The surrounding forest reserve is teeming with life and every trail promises a new discovery.
For those with a passion for culinary discovery, the dining experience at Hidden Valley is not to be missed. Hidden Valley takes pride in a ‘Nature Based Conscious Cuisine/No Barcode’ philosophy, an approach grounded in sustainability and the rich agricultural heritage of Belize.
Local ingredients, sourced from nearby farmers and artisans, form every dish, ensuring that each bite supports both the environment and local communities. The menus celebrate the flavours of the region, with dishes inspired by traditional Mayan cooking and modern Belizean influences. Each meal is an opportunity to experience Belize’s food culture, and activities such as cooking classes, chocolate-making workshops and cocktail sessions invite you to dive deeper into the culinary landscape.
