Greetings from Rancho Santana on the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua

I can comfortably use “Emerald Coast” in my greeting once again, as we’ve recently received our first rains of the year! What a beautiful transformation it is to see all of our pastures, trees, and fruit and vegetable-producing gardens spring to life after receiving this nourishing gift from above. The transformation feels like you’ve set foot in a totally different ecosystem from one day to the next, and not only are our vast forests blossoming, but The Ranch is also showing signs of once again flourishing with life after a few wayward seasons. Our occupancy is sprouting back, our developer projects are coming to fruition, and we are enthusiastically observing strong roots taking hold in the form of new homes and a growing community. Let me tell you a little about it.

Semana Santa Updates

This past month, we celebrated Easter with a roster of themed activities ranging from Egg Hunts to Salsa Dancing and a Sunday Brunch serving traditional Nicaraguan dishes like local favorites Sopa de Queso and Pescado a la Tipitapa at our recently refurnished La Finca y El Mar.

In Nicaragua, Easter is better known as Semana Santa and is celebrated wholeheartedly. Traditionally, Nicaraguans head to the beach with friends and family over this festive season, looking to unwind and enjoy some cherished time with loved ones. We were honored that many local families chose to stay with us; the energy around our lush, 2700 acres was abuzz with happy, smiling people. Overall, we reached an occupancy high of over 60% during the holidays and, based on increasing reservations, are optimistic that these trends will continue.

Up for a rally?

You may recall that I hinted at something special happening in my last Bulletin. Here on the Ranch, often the morning birdsong is punctuated by the melodic call and response of a hollow ball being rallied across our multi-use court. Pickleball, it would appear, has officially become the game to play under our lively skies. In case you’re unfamiliar with it, Pickleball is a game where players use a reduced court similar to that of tennis, usually in teams of two players per side. It is a cross between tennis, badminton, and ping-pong and, according to CNBC, it is now America’s fastest-growing sport. 

Given all the excitement around this game, we are investing in a space to match the level of interest we are experiencing. Our proposed layout will allow for three games to take place concurrently on their own dedicated pickleball courts, leaving the adjacent tennis or basketball court open for use.

We will also be resurfacing the main court and are looking into adding seating for spectators. So, next time you are down for a visit and looking for something to do, swing by the courts to try your hand at one of the most exciting sports to emerge in recent times.

Birds of feather

Did you know there are over 800 species of birds in Nicaragua? We’ve been hearing our brightly-colored locals sing joyously with the recent rains and catching glimpses of them on walks on our ever-growing trail network. From raucous Magpie Jays, robotic-sounding Moctezuma Oropedulas, and the iridescent Turquoise Browed Motmot, many residents start their mornings amongst these graceful fliers.

We want to showcase more of the incredible birdlife and support this pastime by building a dedicated Bird-hide. And what is a Bird-hide, you ask? It is a space – complete with viewing slats, chairs, and desks – where anyone can watch our feathered friends without disturbing their natural behavior. The Bird-hide will be built within the property along the El Limon River, nestled into its natural surroundings, and will be sustainably made using by-products from our many woodworking projects.

Please reach out to Concierge for more information on our bird-watching group and this educational and fun new amenity on the Ranch.

Construction Projects

Since the start of 2022, building at Rancho Santana has been more active than ever and is showing no signs of slowing.  In addition to home improvement projects performed by existing property owners, we have been welcoming new owners from all over the world, bringing a wave of design and development that continues to drive value for everyone on The Ranch. 

This year we are seeing some of the most creative and high-value homes imbued with uniqueness while still maintaining the traditional Spanish Colonial signature style of Rancho Santana. It is always exciting to see owners’ creativity at work as they dream up their own piece of paradise in Rancho Santana.  Over the years we have increased our demand for excellence in construction methodology and have raised the bar for craftsmanship in Nicaragua. 

There are currently eight homes under construction throughout The Ranch, two of which have recently broken ground.  Additionally, we are celebrating the completion of a new home in Los Perros and a newly renovated home in the Las Playas neighborhood of the Ranch.

Condé Nast Traveler 2022 Reader’s Choice Awards

We are honored to announce that we have been included in the Condé Nast Traveler 2022 Reader’s Choice Awards ballot. Help us share the unparalleled beauty of The Inn at Rancho Santana, nestled on the pristine Emerald Coast of Nicaragua.

Support The Ranch by following these steps:
Click the link below, click on Vote – Now Reader’s Choice Awards 2022
Scroll down and select the Hotels and Resorts category
Register to vote, and look up Rancho Santana
Rate us!

Roy Kruiswyk
Resort Director