Resort at a Glance: Villa Montaña Beach Resort

From its secluded location on Puerto Rico’s northwestern coast, Villa Montaña Beach Resort gives its guests the privacy of a tropical retreat with the luxurious amenities of a big-city getaway. Inspired by Colonial architecture, rooms and suites feature terra cotta tile flooring and decor inspired by the fine arts; amenities include complimentary WiFi and flatscreen TVs.

• Use your daily $15 dining credit at Eclipse Restaurant, which features Mediterranean-inspired dishes and pairings that earned it an award from Wine Spectator in 2014 and 2015, and “O” Restaurant and Lounge, which mingles the flavors of Southeast Asian, India, and North Africa.
• Pamper yourself with in-room spa treatments, or schedule in-room salon and beauty treatments from the resort’s technicians (additional fees apply)
• Take a dip in the cerulean waters of one of two swimming pools.
• Stay active in the well-equipped gym, or work on your serve on the private synthetic grass tennis court.
• Outdoor activities: The resort’s staff can assist you with booking outdoor adventures ranging from horseback rides and canyoneering to deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and surfing (additional fees apply).

Western Puerto Rico: Surf, Sun, and Spanish Influence

Located just east of the Dominican Republic, the US commonwealth of Puerto Rico attracts mainland Americans looking for an exotic Caribbean destination without the need for a passport. Puerto Rico’s small size (it’s about as large as Connecticut) makes it possible to see the whole territory in one trip, so a trip to western Puerto Rico is well worth the time. The west’s unofficial capital is Mayagüez, which sits at the center on the island’s western coast. Here, much life revolves around the Plaza Colon, a bustling town square whose broad avenues and quaint cafes are watched over by the Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria. While you’re here, be sure to sample the local mangoes; the city has the island’s largest concentration of the trees.

About 30 miles north of Mayagüez, you’ll find the beachside community of Isabela. Known as the “Garden of the Northwest,” the town is renowned for the lush tropical wildflowers that fill their air with their perfume. Isabela sites just outside the Guajataca Forest Reserve, whose trails and trees conceal natural wonders such as the mist-filled Cave of the Winds. The town’s shoreline also boasts plenty of thundering surf, including Jacinto’s Well, a blowhole that’s the subject of local myths. One things that’s definitely not a myth: the town’s renowned cheese, which is wrapped in banana leaves according to traditional preparations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best way to travel to the hotel from the airport? Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is about 82 miles or 90 minutes from the property.

2. Is there an additional occupancy fee, or do I have to purchase another Groupon? The Groupon covers two guests. Select garden-view one-bedroom suites allow up to two additional guests for $50 per night per guest 15 or older; kids 14 or younger stay free.

3. Which activities and amenities are included in the resort credits? $15 dining credit is included, along with resort fee amenities.

4. Are dinner reservations required for restaurants? Is there a dress code? For information regarding your dining options, please click here or call 787-872-9554.

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