Since much of the northeast is buried under snow right now, I thought it would be nice to post some images that contrast with the white blur outside many windows today. Prepare for a quick mental escape to paradise!
Chris and I visited sunny Puerto Rico in mid January for post-Christmas celebrations with family. Mid-week, we spent few days in Fajardo at El Conquistador resort. Many years ago we had lunch here and vowed to return for a stay at the hotel. It was finally time to try it out!
Overall, we absolutely loved this resort. The grounds and 360 degree views were incredible. One side of the resort faces the ocean, with Palomino island in the distance. The other side overlooks the rainforest, with the hills of El Yunque serving as a backdrop against the setting sun. STUNNING!
Overall, we absolutely loved this resort. The grounds and 360 degree views were incredible. One side of the resort faces the ocean, with Palomino island in the distance. The other side overlooks the rainforest, with the hills of El Yunque serving as a backdrop against the setting sun. STUNNING!
Bienvenidos! A tropical golf course with views of El Yunque welcomes you to El Conquistador.
Magnificent pools with cliff side views.
View of the Casitas and the Caribbean sea from our room.
There are several small nooks all over the resort. This one had a small pool with a clear view of Palomino Island.
The resort is decorated with tropical bonsai trees, artwork and sculptures by famous Puerto Rican artist Botello. Visit his gallery in Old San Juan where you are likely to meet his son.
If you are interested in visiting El Conquistador, here a few things to keep in mind:
When To Visit & Families
We visited during a lull - mid-week and right after school holiday breaks were over. This meant the place was not fully booked and we often had entire areas to ourselves. Highly recommend it if you can swing it!
It's very family friendly. There are multiple pools, kid-friendly restaurants, a built-in scavenger hunt around the grounds and even a water park. We didn't see many families given our timing, but this place would be a phenomenal family getaway.
The Beach
There is no direct beach access from the main hotel grounds. The resort is situated on a cliff and there is a small marina below. Fear not! They have a ferry that takes guests to Palomino Island, the resort's private island, which is less than 10 minutes away. This island boasts one of the best beaches in PR. One side of the island features white sand, calm water, and full amenities - a decent restaurant, two bars, bathrooms, shops and games. You can also hike the small hill in the center of the island to a secluded cove on the far side, or rent horses for a quick tour. Depending on weather and sea conditions, you can rent kayaks and paddle over to Palominito (Little Palomino) which is a tiny beach island across the reef. We loved hanging out on this beach all day and the sunset ride back to the hotel was spectacular!
The white sand of Palomino Island - El Conquistador's semi-private island (locals with private boats may be visiting).
Chris found some shade under the palm trees. A perfect spot to nap, read and sip on a frozen drink.
The south side of the island has stronger waves and a pretty expansive reef.
You can visit several high points on the island by foot or via horseback.
View of Palominito (Little Palomino) from the look out point.
We hiked about 15 minutes to this little beach on the west side of the island. Not great for swimming but pretty nonetheless.
Lunch at the restaurant was surprisingly good. We both liked this churrasco sandwich the best. The restaurant only accepts credit cards or room credit - no ned to bring cash!
The water on the beach near the jetty was probably best. We both swam laps up and down the beach.
As the sun started to set on the mainland, behind the mountains it cast this beautiful orange glow over Palomino.
It started to cool off a bit as the sun set so we walked towards the rocks and watched all the iguanas and little lizards scurry in and out of the brush.
Sunset before heading back to the hotel. This was our view the entire ferry ride back to El Conquistador. Stunning!
Las Casitas & Group Travel
If you are traveling with a large group, consider renting one of the casitas situated along the cliffs. These are beautiful small apartments perfect for families. The casitas have their own small pool and restaurant areas which may be a better option during busy weeks at the resort.
If you are traveling with a large group, consider renting one of the casitas situated along the cliffs. These are beautiful small apartments perfect for families. The casitas have their own small pool and restaurant areas which may be a better option during busy weeks at the resort.
Cliffside casitas at El Conquistador: It would be fun to rent these apartments with a group of friends or family!
They come in various sizes and colors. Some face the ocean while others face the rainforest.
When you stay at the casitas, you get access to private pool areas including this infinity pool. The casitas are also closest to the golf course club house and driving range.
Rooms
We stayed in one of the main buildings facing the ocean which made for spectacular views. When we visited, an ocean view didn't cost much more than a jungle view room. However, if the cost difference is significant, I think a jungle view room would be very nice since the sun sets in that direction, casting a golden light over the mountains and impeccable golf course.
We stayed in one of the main buildings facing the ocean which made for spectacular views. When we visited, an ocean view didn't cost much more than a jungle view room. However, if the cost difference is significant, I think a jungle view room would be very nice since the sun sets in that direction, casting a golden light over the mountains and impeccable golf course.
Sunrise view from our room.
We had a juliet balcony off our room which allowed for a lovely breeze. Here we are before dinner one night, looking over the sea and a few casitas.
Incredible sunrise view from our room. Below is the veranda which is one option for wedding receptions and other events.
I only have two tiny negatives about this resort. First, our bathroom was really dated. We got over this pretty quickly (we've stayed in MUCH worse) but if you are at all particular about your room, this could be an issue. Second, it can get very windy in the mountains which makes sitting outside a little chilly, even if it's sunny. This was only an issue for us one day - the other two days were vey calm. Bring a windbreaker just in case!
It can get very windy cliffside. Check out those palm trees!
Overall, I'd highly recommend this hotel to couples, families or groups of friends looking for a relaxing getaway. If you are traveling without kids, try and schedule your trip for "low season" dates (avoid common school vacations, Christmas and summer) otherwise I can see this place being mobbed by kids.
Also, I think this resort would make for a fantastic destination wedding venue. They have options for big or small weddings and your guests can stay together in the casitas village. It would be so much fun!
Getting Here
It's easy to get here. Fly into San Juan, rent a car at the airport and follow these directions. The drive out here will take about an hour and self parking is $15/day for guests. The car will give you lots of flexibility if you want to explore the rainforest or other nearby beaches and go out at night. If you don't want to rent a car, the hotel can schedule an airport transfer.
In my next post, I'll write about places to eat and things to do in the Fajardo area!
Also, I think this resort would make for a fantastic destination wedding venue. They have options for big or small weddings and your guests can stay together in the casitas village. It would be so much fun!
Getting Here
It's easy to get here. Fly into San Juan, rent a car at the airport and follow these directions. The drive out here will take about an hour and self parking is $15/day for guests. The car will give you lots of flexibility if you want to explore the rainforest or other nearby beaches and go out at night. If you don't want to rent a car, the hotel can schedule an airport transfer.
In my next post, I'll write about places to eat and things to do in the Fajardo area!
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