Blancaneaux Lodge Belize

In the early 1980s, Francis Ford Coppola visited Belize, immediately fell in love with the location, and purchased the abandoned Blancaneaux Lodge. For more than a decade the hideaway was used as a family retreat before Francis opened his tropical paradise to the public in 1993.

Blancaneaux Lodge is a 20-room luxury hideaway where waterfalls tumble into turquoise pools above the jungle canopy. Its remote mountain setting allows guests to explore the ancient civilization of the Maya and to return to their own thatched roof dwelling, rich with Guatemalan décor and nestled in the foliage of the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve.

Blancaneaux Lodge is a luxury hideaway hotel in Belize located in the northwest corner of the 107,000-acre Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in western Belize’s Cayo District. The lodge itself is nestled on the banks of Privassion Creek and is set among tropical pines, oaks, palmetto, craboo, and ancient melastome shrubs.

Within a few miles of our boutique hotel in Belize you will find the steep limestone hills and valleys of the 13,000-acre Noj Kaax Meen Elijio Panti National Park. The dense jungle, steep ravines, spectacular waterfalls, and fast flowing rivers are home to many rare or endangered species of flora and fauna.

Beyond the Mountain Pine Ridge lies the vast uninhabited network of 14 protected areas that comprise the 1.2 million acre Maya Mountain Massif. Less than an hour drive along dirt roads to Guacamallo Bridge, the granite bedrock and red soils of the Mountain Pine Ridge meet the limestone and moist tropical broadleaf forests of the 264,000-acre Chiquibul National Park and the Caracol Archaeological Reserve.

Francis Ford Coppola’s Villa
Enjoy dramatic views from the elevated open-plan living area, take a dip in the private plunge pool, or relax on the hardwood sun deck set in a lush tropical garden. This Villa features a small kitchen with an Illy espresso machine, refrigerator, and wet bar.

A hand-carved antique dining table with seating for up to 14 people overlooks the tumbling waterfalls and deep rock pools of Privassion Creek. Our luxury accommodations in Belize include two large bedrooms, each with a spacious bathroom featuring showers with hand-painted tiles and a Japanese tub.

The eclectically furnished Villa combines regional antiques, Guatemalan fabrics, artisan masks, and hand-carved figurines. Francis’s personal art and antiques are displayed throughout, adding a unique touch to an already comfortable and stylish environment.

The Coppola Villa also features luxury in-room amenities including monogrammed bathrobes and wine glasses, locally produced organic bath products, goose down or hypo-allergenic pillows, iPod docking station, Wi-Fi Internet access and a Shellphone intercom system linked to the hideaway’s front desk.

The Francis Ford Coppola Villa has a full-time attendant to anticipate your every need or to arrange an evening barbeque next to the pool. The attendant is on-call using a walkie-talkie radio system.

Book Francis Ford Coppola’s Villa for an unforgettable luxury vacation in Belize. Upgrade your stay to our finest accommodation – the Enchanted Cottage. This Belize luxury dwelling is the ultimate retreat, with spectacular panoramic views and an emphasis on luxury.

Family Cabaña
A queen-size bed, sleeper sofa and a twin bed highlight the spacious Family Cabaña. A large screened-in porch overlooks the beautiful gardens of our Belize family hideaway, which may also be viewed while idly swaying in the room’s hammock.

Riverfront Cabañas
All Riverfront Cabañas at Blancaneaux Lodge feature an expansive deck ensuring a spectacular view of the Privassion River.

Our Belize luxury accommodations are elegantly themed with native art and local textiles, and offer a queen-size bed and hand-painted tile bathroom. Also, be sure to check out our Garden View Cabañas to enjoy the beautiful nature and lush vegetation of Belize.

Honeymoon Cabaña
Perched over Privassion Creek waterfall, the Honeymoon Cabaña offers the ideal getaway for a romantic Belize honeymoon. The cabaña has a huge private deck overlooking the falls, and stairs allow you to walk down closer and relax in private lounge chairs.

Once you reach the banks of Privassion Creek, stop at our Belize spa for a rejuvenating massage. This cabana features a queen-size bed, ceiling fan, sofa, and Guatemalan décor.

Montagna Ristorante
Enjoy classic Italian cuisine in a tropical setting at our Belize restaurant. Our menu features traditional Italian dishes with a special focus on Coppola family recipes, drawn from their history in the southern region of Basilicata, Italy.

Pastas, fresh fish, and braised or grilled local meats are all prepared with herbs and vegetables from our own Belize organic garden. Our Montagna restaurant also offers made-to-order pizza, cooked in an authentic brick oven.

Our dining room sparkles from candlelight and is decorated with handmade wooden furnishings, colonial era antiques, and Guatemalan fabrics. An open veranda offers moonlit views of Privassion Creek.

Guatemaltecqua Restaurant
Our poolside Belize restaurant specializes in the cooking of Guatemala, a mildly spiced cuisine that draws on Mexican, Caribbean, and Maya traditions.

Local favorites include Salpicon, shredded beef salad flavored with sour orange and cilantro, Jocon, chicken cooked with green herbs and spices, and Rellenitos, a delicious dessert consisting of plantains filled with sweetened black beans.

Jaguar Bar
After a day of Belize vacation tours and activities, the Jaguar Bar is a perfect place to relax. The hand-carved slate bar, ceiling fans from the set of Apocalypse Now, framed photos of archaeological digs, and handmade furnishings create a truly eclectic atmosphere.

The Jaguar Bar offers a selection of fine wines and classic cocktails including favorites such as mojitos and daiquiris, as well as our very own Jaguar Juice, a potent concoction of local craboo liqueur, aged rum, and fresh pineapple juice.

Garden Spot
For a truly unique dining experience, join fellow guests for a “convivial dinner” offered twice weekly in the organic garden. The experience starts with cocktails offered upon arrival at the garden to sip and savor while touring with the head gardener to learn about the organic farming practices and to see all that uniquely grows here in our verdant environment.

Then join other guests at a communal table located on the open-air porch of the thatched roof kitchen within the organic garden. There you will dine on a three-course meal that is completely vegetarian featuring a soup course, salads and stir fry dishes.

Even omnivores have expressed that they fell in love with the vibrant flavors found in the freshest of ingredients harvested minutes before serving. The only decision to make is what wine to have pre-ordered to enhanced this delicious meal shared among new friends.

Waterfall Spa
Set on the banks of Privassion Creek, our Waterfall Spa offers a variety of treatments, wraps, and massages, as well as access to our rejuvenating hot pool overlooking cascading waterfalls.

At the request of Francis Ford Coppola, our Belize spa specializes in the art of Thai massage, and features a professionally trained staff that has studied ancient techniques at the Sacred Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok.

With a hot pool heated solely by hydroelectricity, spa treatments that use locally sourced organic ingredients, and an open building design utilizing natural light, the Waterfall Spa is eco-luxury at its best. Find out more about our Belize conservation efforts today.

Papaya Body Polish
The naturally occurring fruit acid within the papaya gently removes the dead skin cells from the body leaving it feeling refreshed. The body is covered in the warm fruit while enveloped with fluffy towels which allows the body heat to encourage the exfoliating benefit of the treatment.

Essential Oil Massage
Blends of essential oils extracted from plants release their soothing properties into the skin during this face, scalp, and body massage. This eases muscle tension and releases energy with acupressure movements, which is perfect for easing stress.

Natural Waters & Pool
Over a thousand streams begin their journey in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve while smooth granite boulders, sandy beaches, and waterfalls of Privassion Creek provide some of the Reserve’s best natural Belize swimming holes.

Swim in the deep, cool pools close to the lodge or explore the hidden rock pools leading to the stunning Big Rock Falls, a must see for the adventurous. Our fresh water infinity pool is decorated with brightly colored ceramic tiles and surrounded by a stone patio.

Handmade mahogany sun loungers surround the edge of the pool while our ‘Captains’ are on-hand to provide towels and take drink orders from the bar. We additionally have a hot pool adjacent to our spa; a quiet, adults only place to view the creek and unwind.

Organic Garden
At Blancaneaux Lodge the produce is truly local. Our gardening staff grows all the organic vegetables and many of the fruits used at the lodge. Despite the challenges presented by gardening in the jungle, Francis and Eleanor Coppola feel that fresh, flavorful produce is worth the effort. “

We want to offer our guests the best there is, and by growing it ourselves we can guarantee the quality,” says Francis. “Besides, what’s a good brick oven pizza without fresh basil?”

Guests who visit the garden will see familiar backyard varieties growing next to exotic fruits and vegetables. Blancaneaux’s elevation and cool evening temperatures make it possible to grow a myriad of leaf lettuces, radishes, beans, carrots, and beets as well as fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, cilantro, and dill.

Our gardener and chef consult daily on what is available for the day’s menu and what will soon be ready to make an appearance. The year-round growing season and careful crop rotation means there are always fresh tomatoes for salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and pastas.

Horse Stables
Explore horseback riding at Blancaneaux Lodge and enjoy an equestrian sightseeing tour through the lowlands of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Our own horse stables allow you both convenience and the assurance that your riding adventures meet Blancaneaux standards.

We invite you to explore the surrounding area on horseback. Our tours are ideal for all riders, regardless of skill level. We take care to match the rider with the most suitable horse to ensure comfort and safety.

Gift Shop
Explore the crafts of Belize and its neighboring countries in our gift store. Hand-carved and painted wooden masks, which are featured in our room decor, are available for purchase and make an impressive display. Our boutique hotel in Belize also has an excellent collection of one-of-a-kind hand woven huipils bought directly from weavers in Guatemala.

Full Day Jungle Hike
Follow fresh jaguar tracks with our expert guide through the jungle-clad hills of the Elijio Panti National Park. Marvel at delicate orchids and observe charismatic bird species such as the keel-billed toucan. Discover medicinal plants used by the ancient Maya and learn their secrets.

After lunch beside a cooling waterfall, conclude the day by meandering along old logging trails in the tropical pine forest. Departs: 9:00 am. Length: 5-6 hours. Level of difficulty: Moderate to high

Hike to Big Rock Falls
Begin your adventure following a trail overlooking the creek and waterfalls. Admire the abundant brightly colored orchids adorning granite rock outcroppings and relax at one of the many streams crisscrossing the trail.

Dip into the creek to be energized by the cool mountain water and receive an invigorating massage provided by the massive waterfall. Departs: Anytime before 5:00 pm. Length: 2.5 hours roundtrip. Level of difficulty: High

Orchid Heaven Trek
Our unique region provides world-class orchid hunting opportunities with approximately 150 orchid species found in a 10-mile radius of Blancaneaux Lodge.

Follow orchid trails close to the lodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge along a landscape of tumbling waterfalls and granite outcroppings where trees often have five or six different orchid species, complemented by a wide array of ground orchids. Departs: Anytime before 5:00 pm. Length: 30 minute walk. Level of difficulty: Low

Sunset Horseback Riding
As the sun dips towards the horizon we ride east into the Noj Kaax Meen Elijio Panti National Park. Continue to a vantage point in the moist tropical broadleaf forest, home to jaguar, tapir, and ocelot. Enjoy the evening chorus of birdsong as the sun sets over the Maya Mountains on the ride back to the lodge.

Chiquibul Night Expedition
Departing the property before sunset, arriving at the Chiquibul Forest, where you can hike to an amazing birding tower. Here one can enjoy an amazing panoramic view of the thick luscious rainforest. This is the perfect time as it is a relaxing experience to watch the sunset along with different species of birds making their way back to their nests.

As darkness covers the rainforest, the predators start to roam their kingdom in search of prey. As most of Belize’s large mammals are nocturnal this is your best chance to actually see them in their natural habitat. Driving from the pine forest to the rainforest at a slow and quiet pace, we stealthily search the forest for gibnut, armadillos, peccaries and other wildlife.

Although seldom seen, the elusive jaguar leaves enough tracks behind for us to understand that this is his realm. Keep an open eye for our national animal the Tapir, who forages on trail-side vegetation. After a couple hours silently exploring the jungle, we have a snack by the creek under the forest canopy.

On our way back, we keep vigilant for signs of a white tailed deer or the arboreal Mexican porcupine. As we slowly drive back to the lodge, there is time to marvel at the magnificent clarity of the night sky. Departs: 3.30pm. Duration: 3-4 hours.

Guided Mountain Biking
There’s no better way to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve than a bike tour. Guided bike trips will take you on scenic routes and trails around the Reserve. Check with the Concierge to discuss departure times, difficulty, terrain, and desired length of trip.

Swimming
Over a thousand streams begin their journey in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve while smooth granite boulders, sandy beaches, and waterfalls of Privassion Creek provide some of the Reserve’s best natural swimming holes. You can swim in the deep, cool pools close to the lodge or explore the hidden rock pools leading to the stunning Big Rock Falls, a must see for the adventurous.

Our fresh water infinity pool is set between the main lodge and the Guatemaltecqua Restaurant and is decorated with brightly colored ceramic tiles. Handmade mahogany sun loungers surround the edge of the pool which has ‘Captains’ on-hand to provide towels and your desired beverages.

Sunrise Bird Watching
As the sun rises at Blancaneaux Lodge, the forest is alive with the sound of exotic birdlife. Take a short walk around the property’s gardens and trails, and let your guide point out the well-camouflaged birds hiding in the nearby forest.

Explore sunrise bird watching and learn about our migrant species and the many secrets of our feathered friends. With almost 600 species documented in Belize, this walk is an excellent introduction to the birds of the region. Departs: 6:00 am. Length: 1 hour (Concierge can arrange for a half-day or full-day birding as well.). Level of Difficulty: Easy

Maya Ruins Caracol
Discover the history of the Maya with our exciting Caracol tour. Situated high on the Vaca Plateau deep in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Caracol is the most extensive Maya site in Belize and was only rediscovered in 1936.

The site of Caracol covers over 80 square miles with 30,000 structures, and at its peak supported a population of more than 150,000 people. Situated 1,600 feet above sea level w ith no natural body of water nearby, it remains a mystery how such a huge population was able to survive there.

At the heart of the site lies the massive pyramid of Caana (Sky Palace), which is now almost fully restored and reaches over 135 feet high. From the top you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the forest-clad mountains.

Xunantunich
Explore Xunantunich which flourished during the Classic Period (250-900 A.D.) and is believed to have survived the Maya collapse to remain an important population center until the 11th century.

Our tour begins with a drive down the mountain to the village of San Jose Succotz, to take a hand-cranked ferry over the Mopan River to the site of Xunantunich (Maiden of the Rock). The site has five main plazas, although only three plazas are evident to visitors today.

Dominating the site is El Castillo, rising over 120 feet. A steep but short climb to the top is highly recommended for the panoramic views of the surrounding Mopan and Belize River valleys, as well as Guatemala to the west.

In addition, the visitor center and museum are excellent and there are many small restaurants in the area serving authentic local food, or, you may choose to bring along a picnic lunch and eat at the site.

Tikal, Guatemala
Consider crossing the border into Guatemala to spend a full day touring perhaps the most visually stunning of all Maya sites. Tikal’s five monolithic temples pierce the jungle canopy (Temple IV reaches a height of almost 230 feet) and ancient plazas, steles, and ball courts tell of a rich and powerful history when Tikal’s population reached almost 100,000.

Today the site is recognized as one of the archeological wonders of the Americas. Its unspoiled jungle setting within the Tikal National Park makes it a paradise for birders, nature lovers, and amateur archaeologists.

Cave Explorations – Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM)
Explore Actun Tunichil Muknal, notably ranked as one of the ‘Top 10 Sacred Caves in the World’ by National Geographic Magazine. The cave trip starts with a 70 minute drive from Blancaneaux Lodge followed by a 40 minute trek through the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve to the cave entrance.

The underground stream flows out of the cave and it’s necessary to take a short swim into the cave (water depth is about 12 feet). About three hours is spent inside the cave, where you will squeeze through tight spaces and climb over rocks. The rewards are worth it.

Two small carved stelae are located above the stream, one in the shape of an obsidian blade and the other a stingray spine. On the next level lies the cave’s most famous occupant, the Crystal Maiden, a victim of ritual sacrifice from the Late Classic Period. ATM Cave in Belize is only recommended for those of an adventurous spirit with a good level of fitness.

Barton Creek Cave
Explore Barton Creek Cave, a remote cave once used by the ancient Maya as a burial site. Adorned with amazing stalactites and stalagmites, the guides will tell stories of civilizations past as they use spotlights to point out Maya pottery shards and remains in the depths below. This journey is enjoyed in a canoe as your guide paddles you through the dramatic cave.

Barton Creek Cave PLUS Intermedio Zip Line
The Intermedio zip line is a 45-60 minute tour that offers 2,573 feet of line separated in 7 runs and 12 platforms. This tour includes a short 10 minute hike through the forest and crosses a hammock bridge.

Caves Branch Nohuch Che’en Reserve Cave Tubing
Blancaneaux Lodge offers a daily early morning transfer option for all guests traveling to Belize Municipal Airport or Turtle Inn Resort. The transfer stops at the Nohuch Che’en Reserve for an hour long float along the Caves Branch River and a gentle jungle walk to reach the starting point for cave tubing.

Each participant has a special ‘tube’ for the float, a headlamp, life vest, and ‘water shoes.’ The float goes through a series of huge interconnecting caves separated by open sections where the river is flanked by high jungle.

Caracol, Rio Frio Cave and Rio On Pools
This is an ideal combination of the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve and Caracol tours. After a picnic lunch at Caracol, enjoy a stop at the Rio Frio Cave, and finish at the Rio On Pools, where you can indulge in a refreshing swim.

Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, & Green Hills Butterfly Farm
Located on a hill overlooking San Ignacio, Cahal Pech is a small but significant Maya center. Situated atop an acropolis on the Macal River, the center of Cahal Pech consists of 34 structures on only two square acres. A visitor center contains artifacts and a reconstructed model of the site.

The Green Hills Butterfly Farm features dozens of different species of Belizean butterflies. There are many small restaurants in the area serving excellent local food, or you may choose to bring along a picnic lunch.

Mountain & Beach
From the shores of Placencia Lagoon to the natural serenity of the Maya Mountains, we are reminded that paradise can exist in more than one location. This 7-night experience showcases both of our luxury hideaways in Belize.

You’ll stay three nights in a stylish Riverfront Cabaña at our mountain hideaway, Blancaneaux Lodge, where you can swim underneath cascading waterfalls and explore the exotic flora and fauna of the tropical rainforest.

The second half of your holiday will be spent in a beautifully furnished Seaview Cottage at our beachside hideaway, Turtle Inn, where you will have the opportunity to snorkel along the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and witness the spectacular sunset on Placencia Lagoon with hor d’oeuvres and wine from the Francis Ford Coppola’s Winery.

Included in this package are meals from our restaurants, offering a variety of local cuisine as well as traditional Italian dishes.

Deluxe Honeymoon
Imagine a honeymoon like no other, set in luxury amidst the rainforest of Belize in our Honeymoon Suite at Blancaneaux Lodge. A private, beautifully appointed cabaña and friendly, attentive staff allow you to experience all our romantic oasis offers.

Our Belize honeymoon package includes decadent meals at our restaurants, rejuvenating spa treatments for two, amazing views of waterfalls from your own private deck, and much more. To satisfy your adventurous spirit, we’ve also included three unique excursions certain to create memories for a lifetime.

Four Night Exclusive Adventure
Adventure-filled days, luxurious accommodations, and authentic local cuisine are some of the highlights of the Belize travel packages at Blancaneaux Lodge. During your stay, you’ll journey into the past with a canoe trip into ancient caves, discover natural swimming holes on horseback, and explore the secrets of the mystical Maya culture.

With nights spent in a beautifully appointed Riverfront Cabaña set among lush, landscaped gardens and overlooking cascading waterfalls, you’ll swear paradise is located under the rainforest canopy of Belize.

Blancaneaux Lodge & Turtle Inn Honeymoon
Experience Belize with this weeklong Belize Honeymoon Package showcasing both of our award-winning tropical hideaways. Our Belize luxury hideaway package features three nights amidst the lush landscape and sweeping vistas of our remote mountain escape, Blancaneaux Lodge, before continuing your romantic holiday at our beachside paradise, Turtle Inn.

Whether under the secluded canopy of the rainforest or mere steps from the seashore, you’ll enjoy luxurious accommodations and unparalleled service.

Indulge in the delicious and varied cuisine in our several restaurants, rejuvenate with couples’ spa treatments, and thrill with four adventurous excursions that will take you into the heart of our magnificent surroundings.

Website: www.thefamilycoppolahideaways.com

Rooms: 20

Price: from 339 EUR per night