It was like being in an adult summer camp -treehouses, bikes, a reading room and tropical forest trails connecting every corner of the property. Just 45 minutes from Cartagena, Hotel Las Islas in Barú , Colombia is offers a refined Caribbean getaway designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. Carefully designed to blend into the landscape, the retreat feels secluded, tranquil and invites you to slow down from the moment you arrive.
Las-Islas-Hotel-Baru-Colombia-Photo-Credit_-M.-Ibbott
The Setting
The hotel sits within Islas del Rosario National Park, where mangroves, the Caribbean Sea, and tropical forest frame the property, creating a sense of seclusion that feels worlds away from the fast pace of Cartagena. You can arrive by land, sea or air (they have a helipad) – the choice is yours.
Accommodations
Accommodations are centered on the 55 bungalows, giving the hotel a more intimate and individual character than a traditional resort. The property offers seafront and treetop bungalows, each generously sized and thoughtfully appointed. Guests can enjoy private jacuzzies, pools, outdoor living rooms with seating and a hammock, balconies overlooking the tropical forest and stunning ocean views.
Luxury Villa – Las Islas Hotel – Barú, Colombia- Photo Credit: M. Ibbott
Each bungalow includes air conditioning, a flat-screen television, minibar, Nespresso machine and ice maker and a spacious bathroom with Japanese-style washlet toilets, rain showerheads, premium toiletries and plush bathrobes and slippers.
Bathroom – Las Islas Hotel, Barú, Colombia- Photo Credit: M. Ibbott
The Treetop Bungalows, located 8-12 metres above ground, offer more elevated, romantic feel with netted beds (double or two singles) and forest views.
The Sea-Level Bungalows feature private pools, outdoor dining areas, and direct views of the surrounding islands. They also included complimentary bicycles, hammocks and room service.
Unique amenities
Hotel Las Islas offers a mix of outdoor activities and relaxed, indoor spaces. Guests can take advantage of kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, salt water pools and even access to the hotel’s own private island, making it easy to stay active while immersed in the natural surroundings.
Reading Room – Las Islas Hotel, Barú, Colombia- Photo Credit: M. Ibbott
For something quieter, a small boutique shop features carefully curated local artisan goods including jewellery, handbags, and women’s fashion – ideal for those looking to bring an authentic piece of Baru home.
In the Club House, the pace slows even further. A reading room with a forest view, decorated decorated with African artifacts, provides a calm inviting space to unwind. From there, guest can take the spiral staircase or glass elevator up to Las Islas Bar. Guests can enjoy delightful cocktails, mocktails or premium spirits.
Choco Restaurant on the Beach – Las Islas Hotel – Photo Credit: M. Ibbott
Dining options include the Choco Restaurant & Bar (located at the beach) with delicious wood-oven pizza and sandwich options, Los Mangos Cafeteria & Ice Cream Bar (snacks), Tía Coco (breakfast buffet) and La Guacas – fine dining,
Wellness and Activities
For travelers who like their hotel stays to include more than a pretty room and a good meal, there is plenty here to enjoy a longer, more restorative visit. Spa Nina Daniela provides the wellness anchor, including a Turkish bath, sauna, jacuzzi, pool, personal massage services or meditative sound-bowl therapy – it was magical, I cannot lie.
Sound-bowl – Wellness Spa – Las Islas Hotel Photo Credit: M. Ibbott
The resort also offer unique astro-tourism at the stargazing deck, guided by the hotel’s activity center team. With their Celestron CGX-L telescope, you can explore the solar system and deep space. This activity is an exclusive courtesy for resort guests.
Courtesy Use of the Telescope – Astrotourism in Colombia – Photo Credit: M. Ibbott
The resort also offers, walking tours of Cartagena, helicopter tours of the islands and snorkeling, e-foil (electric hydroplane surfboard), bioluminescence tours, and cooking classes to master local dishes. This is not a property trying to entertain constantly; it is more interested in offering experiences that invite you to slow down and pay attention.
Sustainability
Saltwater Pool – Las Islas Hotel – Photo Credit: M. Ibbott
Sustainability is clearly woven into the hotel’s identity. No trees were cut down during construction, the pools are saltwater, and the property supports mangrove planting and coral reproduction work. Its membership in Beyond Green reinforces that commitment and give the hotel the added credibility for travels who care about responsible tourism.
Atmosphere and Service
The atmosphere is one of the hotel’s strongest qualities. A no-loud-music policy in public areas, at the beach, and by the saltwater pool near the Club House helps preserve the tranquility that defines the property. The hotel manager, noted on our tour that more than 80% of its team comes from nearby communities. The staff was very helpful and attentive to our needs (with a special lunch order to accommodate my dietary needs).
Wellness Centre Islas Hotel- Credit: M. Ibbott
Hotel Las Islas is best suited to couples, solo travelers, and mature luxury guests who appreciate privacy, calm, and thoughtful design and excellent service. It will also appeal to those seeking a romantic getaway or restorative escape close to Cartagena. If you are looking for a lively resort atmosphere, this is not that kind of place; if you want luxury with a strong sense of environment and intention, it is an excellent fit.
Recommendation
What makes Hotel Las Islas memorable are the treetop bungalows and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s location is a welcome change from the bustle of Cartagena – a short boat, car or helicopter ride away. The bungalows, the landscape, the dining and wellness focus, and the sustainability ethos all work together to create a stay that feels both polished and genuine.
