Hotels: Hotel Jinava in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala | Travel Recommendations by On the Road Travel
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Hotel Jinava
 
 
Guatemala > Lake Atitlan > Hotels > Hotel Jinava

Description
A great option if you are looking for something a little more cottage-like in this town. Jinava is tucked away on the hillside in a bay around the bend from the main San Marcos dock. Run by a foul-mouthed, but entertaining German named Gene and his Guatemalan wife Elizabeth Ava (Jinava is a mix of the two names; Gene substituted 'J' for 'G' in honor of Jimi Hendrix ….) Gene, who was once a physiotherapist, found the property when he came to Atitlan as a backpacker in 1999 and has stayed ever since. This stunning piece of property has beautiful gardens, with numerous floral species cascading down the cliff, ending at a private beach (its all pebbles) and dock where you can swim and enjoy more sheltered waters. If you are thirsty when you emerge, ring the bell on the coconut tree and you can order a drink made of top-shelf liquors.

Insider Tips
Throughout the day and into the evening you will be treated to some of rock and roll's classics from Gene's extensive vinyl collection.

When you get on the boat in Pana, tell the driver that you are going to the Hotel Jinava dock at San Marcos La Laguna - this will save you an exhausting walk up through town.

Benefits
- This is a choice, quiet spot in San Marcos, with wonderful views and access to the lake.

Drawbacks
- Given its hillside setting, you can expect an enormous climb in either direction to get to your room but you’ll find the staff here is friendly and happy to help with your bags.
- The public boats may not stop at Jinava's dock if there are rough waters, in which case you will have to get off at the main dock and hike up the gigantic hill to reach your destination.
- You are apart from the main town, so if you choose to go there at night, you will have a dark walk back.
- There are better options for restaurants in town.
- This hotel is listed in several guidebooks, including the Lonely Planet, so book early!

Rooms
There are six sparse but very adequate rooms here. All but one have private bath. The rooms are kept immaculately clean, as are the bathrooms which are equipped with electric showers and warm water. La Luna is a stand-alone unit around the side of the main house and has wonderful views. Rooms 135Q - 280Q. Rooms with two beds that are used by couples will costs 200Q, unless - as Gene says - they have a fight and end up using the second bed, in which case it will cost them 280Q.

Food
There is a restaurant here that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The dinner menu includes Thai curries, fajitas, and a dish called 'No Name' which is whatever the chef is in the mood for. It's best to stick to the Mojitos, which are the specialty of the house.

Information:
 
Location
San Marcos La Laguna (on the other side of the hill from the main town); Tel: 5299-3311
 
 

 

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