“How about a weekend getaway to a private island?” That’s the question Isla El Reten whispers.
Isla El Reten is part of the archipelago called Isletas de Granada. These beautiful islands are near the vast Lake Nicaragua. A pre-historic eruption of the Mombacho Volcano created them. The islands are one of the country’s most attractive natural highlights.
Las Isletas is an archipelago of 365 small islands. They are scattered around the Asese peninsula. Here you’ll find tiny fishing communities. You will also see stunning private homes. Beautiful resorts and eco-lodges dot the landscape. The archipelago’s flora and fauna are remarkable. The best way to see it is from a private deck. You can also explore by motorboat. Or kayak slowly around the islands.
These little islands sit on the glittering Lake Granada. They are just a few minutes from the bright and colorful colonial city of Granada. This lake is huge. It’s the biggest lake in the country. It spans around 110 miles. Spaniards first visited the area and mistook the lake for an ocean.
There are 365 islets, one for each day of the year. The still-active Mombacho volcano formed them thousands of years ago.
The islets have a varied history. Many are uninhabited. Some have mansions. Some are privately owned. One has a 400+year-old fort. It was built to protect Granada from pirates.
There are a few options for exploring them. Take a boat tour. Go kayaking. Stay overnight at an eco-lodge. Really soak up everything around you.
Boat tours are a popular way to tour the islets. The short tour usually takes you to one of the most famous islets. It’s home to a family of spider monkeys stranded on the island. Volunteers mention the boat tours will pull up next to the trees. The monkeys will peer out to get a closer look if you share fruit or goodies.
Other tours are longer. They take you to a few other islands. You can eat at one of the restaurants. Or tour the colonial fort.
Some tours let you swim in the lake. Know that some opt not to swim. About 30-40 years ago, there were reports of bull sharks in the water. But none have been seen in decades. Some prefer to swim in one of the hotel pools instead.
Vendors sell boat tours in Granada’s Central Park. You can also see vendors by the lake on the boardwalk. Shorter tours will visit one or two islands. Longer tours will visit more islands. They may take you out around sunset. Some may stop for dinner.
Want to soak up the scenery more slowly? Go by kayak. Paddle on the massive lake. Pass between hundreds of islands. It’s a fun way to see the islands. Go with a guide for history and to spot birds. The islets are famous for birdwatching. Look for cormorants, herons, parrots, hawks, and vultures.
Several of these islands are privately owned. They’re home to former presidents and millionaires. But you’ll find a few with incredible eco-lodges. They make for a fun stay-cation in a picturesque place.
These places have kayak, canoe, or paddleboard rentals. They have restaurants with sunset views. Free breakfasts and swinging hammocks are common. Boats will pick you up from the mainland. Some let you rent out the entire island for your group.
Most are quiet eco-lodges with perks. Some have kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards for rent. Some have lakeside swimming pools if you want to cool off. Consider booking one with free breakfast. Look for swinging hammocks. And boats that will pick you up to and from the mainland. Relax and settle in.
Jicaro Island Ecolodge is one option. This place is dreamy. It’s a more luxurious stay. It has a pool, yoga center, spa, and hammocks. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available. It has 5-star status.
The island’s ecolodge has an onsite restaurant. Some tours, like the fishing tour, are complementary. They walk you through traditional fishing methods on the lake. They book out the entire island for groups.
Isleta El Espino Ecolodge is another favorite. It’s more affordable. It has casitas, bungalows, or treetop places to stay. This eco-lodge has a pool and kayak rentals. They offer tours, yoga in the mornings, and a spa. Your group can rent out the entire island if you have 10 or more people.
So, picture yourself on Isla El Reten. Imagine the sun setting. Hear the gentle lapping of Lake Nicaragua. Feel the peace of this island escape. Isla El Reten is not just a place. It’s an experience waiting to happen.