Casa Colonial Beach & Spa

Casa Colonial Beach & Spa Review

Done in the clean, sophisticated, contemporary style of a boutique hotel, Casa Colonial is a surprise among the chockablock all-inclusives of Playa Dorada. Gorgeously designed by Sara Garcia, the small property exudes refinement and relaxation amid tropical gardens that lead to the quietest end of the long beach here. In comparison to the exquisite neo-colonial architecture and landscaping, the suites fall flat. They are very comfortable—with Frette linens and the inviting open bath-to-bedroom floor plan pioneered by Mandarin Oriental—but the rooms lack pizzazz, with furnishings pushed into corners. The lobby feels more like a great Manhattan lounge, with a stellar bar. Lucía, the designer gourmet restaurant, is also beautiful to look at. Upscale spa devotees will savor the Baqua Spa, with its Vichy showers, body wraps, inventory of massages and facials, and refreshing juices. The rooftop sundeck is close to heaven—an infinity pool and four warm Jacuzzis overlooking the ocean as well as an eatery here and on the ground floor facing the ocean. In short, if you like exclusive boutique hotels, this is the choice on the North Coast.