Hotel Villa Santa Catarina sits on the shore of Lake Atitlán in Santa Catarina Palopó, a few minutes on foot from the village's painted houses and a short drive from Panajachel. It is a mid-range property with a relaxed, resort feel, and it is popular with couples and families who want a pool and a garden without the price of a luxury retreat. The hotel has two outdoor pools, on-site hot springs, a restaurant, a terrace, gardens and a games room, along with free Wi-Fi and free parking. Rooms range from singles and doubles to triples and a superior double with a queen bed, so the hotel suits solo travelers, couples and small groups. Guests rate it highly, with a score of 9.0 out of 10 from nearly 380 reviews, and particularly praise the cleanliness and the staff. Breakfast is available for a surcharge, and the hotel can arrange an airport shuttle and babysitting for an additional fee.
Location and getting around
The hotel is on the lake in a quiet, rural part of Santa Catarina Palopó, so the setting is peaceful and the lake views are close. The village's painted lanes are about a two-minute walk away, and the hotel is a short drive from the center of Panajachel, where the boats leave for the other villages.
The location is more about atmosphere than convenience, so plan to use drivers or boats for dinners and day trips. Nearby sights include Cerro Tzankujil and the Tzantizotz nature reserve, and the hotel's setting makes it a good base for Maya crafts and photography.
The rooms and the feel
The rooms are simple and comfortable rather than lavish, with a choice of bed configurations that suits groups. The pools and hot springs are the highlight, and the gardens and terrace give you somewhere to relax in the afternoon. The games room and the fireplace in reception add a homely touch, which makes the hotel a good choice for families and for travelers who want a place to unwind between day trips. The restaurant means you can eat on site, though many guests also explore the village.
Good to know
Check-in runs from 3 pm to 10 pm, with late check-in available during limited hours, and check-out is at noon. Breakfast is available for a surcharge, and airport transfers and babysitting are available for a fee. Only service animals are allowed. Cancellation terms vary by rate, so check the details when you reserve. Santa Catarina is quiet in the evenings, so bring a book, plan your meals and enjoy the hot springs after a long day on the water.
Why stay here
- ✓Lakeside setting
- ✓Two outdoor pools
- ✓On-site hot springs
- ✓Restaurant and terrace
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Free parking
- ✓Gardens and games room
- ✓Airport shuttle for a fee
Good questions
Where is Hotel Villa Santa Catarina?+
It is on the shore of Lake Atitlán in Santa Catarina Palopó, about a two-minute walk from the painted houses and a short drive from Panajachel.
Does it have a pool?+
Yes. There are two outdoor pools and on-site hot springs, along with a garden, a terrace and a games room.
Is breakfast included?+
Breakfast is available for a surcharge at the on-site restaurant. Check your rate to see what is included before you arrive.
