Away From it All in Azua
Altos de la Caobita Eco Hotel
What comes to your mind when you think about vacation destinations in the Dominican Republic? Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, La Romana…Azua? While Azua might not be one of the first destinations that come to mind for travelers exploring the Dominican Republic, sitting on the south coast, lies a hidden gem that promises an escape from the ordinary and a peaceful stay. Altos de la Caobita Eco Hotel stands as a beacon of tranquility, putting Azua on the map for those seeking a serene getaway surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
The entrance
Why Choose Altos de la Caobita Hotel?
The view of the hotel from our balcony
Altos de la Caobita isn't just another hotel; it's a small, sustainable haven crafted with a commitment to environmental conservation and community development. Powered by solar panels, this eco-friendly retreat ensures minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem while offering guests a chance to reconnect with nature in a profound way.
Altos de Caobita Hotel is a 2.5-hour drive from Santo Domingo, beyond Azua. Sitting high in the hills, it offers sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea, surrounding mountains, and Caobita Beach. The hotel comprises several modest structures without a central lobby. It features six rooms, each boasting spacious balconies overlooking the sea. On-site dining options include a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beverages. Guests can enjoy a picturesque infinity pool. For a rustic experience, the property also offers glamping sites. With its white walls and red Spanish tile, the hotel evokes the charm of the Spanish countryside.
If you are:
looking for a peaceful getaway
wanting to reconnect with nature
desiring a place off the beaten path
Altos de la Caobita is the place for you! Read more about this hidden gem.
The Social Project Aspect
Barreras town sign
More than just a hotel, Altos de la Caobita represents a transformative social project aimed at fostering sustainable economic development in the region. The hotel operates on a non-profit business model, reinvesting its profits back into the local community of Barreras. From providing employment opportunities to offering tourism training courses, Altos de Caobita is committed to empowering the nearby towns and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
A Place Steeped in History
Barreras, where Altos de la Caobita is located, holds a rich historical significance as the oldest indigenous settlement on Hispaniola. Dating back to 2800-2600 BC, this area was once inhabited by groups known as Bareroids or Mordanoids, drawn by the abundance of flint mines. Guests can explore this fascinating history through visits to sites like the Cueva de los Indios, adorned with ancient petroglyphs.
Altos de la Caobita Hotel
ROOMS
At Altos de la Caobita Hotel, guests can choose from six rooms accommodating 1 to 4 people. For those traveling with friends or family, family suites are available, featuring separate bedrooms and shared bathrooms, ideal for group stays. However, our personal favorites were the four rooms offering breathtaking sea views. These rooms are tastefully decorated with a modern, bohemian vibe, complete with comfortable beds, chairs, simple bathrooms and locally crafted decor.
The view from our room
The standout feature? The expansive balconies boasting endless vistas. Whether it's morning, afternoon, or night, these balconies provide a serene retreat, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
GLAMPING
As for the glamping sites located at the bottom of the hill, they offer a more rustic experience. Each glamping tent comes equipped with bedside amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature's embrace. Sleep up to four people in the tents. There is an outdoor bathroom to share with private toilet and shower stalls. It’s not quite camping, but it captures the experience for those looking for an adventure.
Eco-Friendly
It's worth noting that Altos de la Caobita operates as an eco-hotel powered by solar panels, meaning there's no need for air conditioning—a detail we didn't even miss. Thanks to the powerful fan provided, the rooms remain pleasantly comfortable, and guests can still enjoy hot water amenities for added convenience.
The dining area of the restaurant
THE RESTAURANT
Altos de la Caobita has an on-site restaurant, a rare find in the area where dining options are scarce. If you're looking to dine out beyond the premises, your closest bet lies in a 50-minute drive to Azua. Don't worry though, as the restaurant menu here is stocked with local delights, from seafood to pasta and chicken dishes. Don't forget to inquire about their specialty, goat!
Guests staying overnight are treated to a complimentary traditional Dominican breakfast. Enjoy these meals on the terrace, where the breathtaking view feels almost like a framed picture.
Traditional Dominican breakfast with a view
EXCURSIONS
Caobita Beach
Staying at Altos de la Caobita is a relaxing retreat, but it doesn’t mean you have to stay at the hotel your entire stay. Go on an adventure and explore the surrounding beauty and culture of the area. Here are some options available to you for free, and some that are offered by the hotel:
Caobita Beach: A few minutes drive down the hill is the Playa La Caobita. The white sand and blue seas are beautiful and a joy to swim in with hardly any waves. However, the walk from the parking lot to the beach is not the most pleasant. There can be a lot of trash around, which is off-putting. Free.
Boat Ride on the Bay: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of the bay as you cruise through mangrove islands, pristine beaches, and observe native fauna. Price: 3,000 DOP per boat (around $50 USD).
Hiking Trails: Lace up your hiking shoes and embark on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Barrera village. Price: to be consulted.
Horseback Riding: Experience the charm of Altos de Caobita from a unique perspective as you ride around the hotel grounds with our knowledgeable local guides. Price: 1000 DOP per hour (around $20 USD).
Cycling Routes: Rent a bike from the hotel and explore the area's beauty at your own pace or opt for a guided tour. Price: to be consulted.
Discover the Village of Barrera: Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque village of Barrera, immerse yourself in the local culture, and connect with its residents over coffee. Price: to be consulted.
TIPS FOR A PLEASANT STAY
A few tips to help you enjoy this getaway to the max!
Bring mosquito repellant. In the morning and around dusk, the mosquitos can be pesky.
Bring snacks. While the restaurant on site does offer meals, there are no closeby places to buy snacks. On your way here, stop and pick up your favorite snacks and drinks to enjoy during your stay.
Pack appropriate clothing. Before your arrival, check out the available excursions and if there is something that catches your eye, bring appropriate clothing for that activity.
There is no AC. As mentioned before, this is an eco-hotel, and there are no air conditioners on the property. Keep that in mind before booking. We found that the ceiling fan made the room very comfortable at night for sleeping.
Bring activities. During your stay, there could be a lot of downtime. There are no televisions in the room. Bring your book, games, or whatever you would like to help you relax at this retreat.
Book Your Getaway in Azua
Booking your retreat at Altos de la Caobita is simple. Visit their website to reserve your stay and embark on a journey of rejuvenation and discovery. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an immersive cultural experience, Altos de la Caobita promises an unforgettable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Hotel Day Pass
Will you just be passing through the Azua area and just want to relax for the day? Experience a memorable day at Altos de la Caobita with their day pass! For just 1300 pesos ($22 USD) per adult, you'll have full access to the pool area and other common areas of the hotel. Plus, the day pass includes a delicious lunch and one non-alcoholic beverage. Come and immerse yourself in the tranquility and charm of Altos de la Caobita! Operating hours are from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, subject to hotel capacity. Reserve your pass by phone to secure your spot.
Altos de Caobita • altosdelacaobita@gmail.com • 809-384-3508
Sunrise balcony views
Your Perfect Getaway in Azua Awaits
