A ten-Course Dive into Belize Delicacies With Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge

For many, the point out of Belizean delicacies conjures up ideas of the ever-popular rice and beans and possibly even a plate of fluffy, golden fry jacks. However at Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge—the luxurious eco-retreat nearly fairly actually hidden away inside Mountain Pine Ridge—the phrase “quintessentially Belizean” takes on an entire new kind. The Caribbean Tradition + Way of life staff just lately had the possibility to spend three dreamy days at Hidden Valley. In between vigorous hikes, waterfalls, and picnics, we received to expertise (and style) the world-class culinary experiences that the lodge has to supply firsthand. Right here’s a full recap. 

Luxurious within the Coronary heart of Nature 

Hidden Valley went above and past to make sure that we and all different visitors felt proper at house. Though, it isn’t a troublesome process contemplating simply how soothing and serene the lodge is. Surrounded by the plush greenery of the property’s 7,200 acres of wilderness, it’s simple to fall right into a state of indifferent bliss—far faraway from the thrill of Belize’s cities and cities.  With lemongrass tea and chilly towels in hand, we received the possibility to discover the lodge’s thoughtfully designed grounds. On the heart, the principle foyer exudes the vibe and ambiance of a log cabin–cozy, heat, and welcoming.  

Simply as cozy was the Property Cottage that we have been fortunate sufficient to spend two nights in. Boasting touches of old-world attraction in addition to fashionable luxurious, this spacious cottage encompasses a screened-in porch, full with hammocks, tables, and chairs do you have to want to get pleasure from some crisp Pine Ridge air. Inside, a fire bids welcome (as a result of this space of Belize really does get chilly within the Winter). Past the plush mattress and the open seating space although, the standout of this room sort is undoubtedly the out of doors waterfall bathe. 

We additionally loved a glimpse of the opposite rooms out there on the property. They vary from cozy Backyard Cottages to sprawling Valley View Villas, full with a non-public plunge pool. In the meantime, the newly constructed hearth tower room grants visitors superb panoramic views of the encircling valley. 

Coronary heart Pumping Hikes 

Along with next-level luxurious within the coronary heart of nature, visitors at Hidden Valley also can get pleasure from 90+ miles of attractive climbing trails. We received the possibility to discover fairly just a few, together with Butterfly Falls, whose wood bridges and speeding creeks could make anybody really feel like they’re Indiana Jones. We additionally received to witness the majestic (and intensely tall) Tiger Creek Falls. After, we have been handled to a tasty picnic lunch beside a speeding waterfall at Secret Pool to finish all of it off. 

The pièce de résistance of our keep, although, was the culinary expertise curated by a few of Belize’s most proficient cooks. 

Cooking Lessons & 10-Course Meals 

Tradition and delicacies come collectively in a singular and enchanting means at Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge. Their two onsite eating places, Slate and Sap, are helmed by famed Belizean Chef Sean Kuylen. 

Along with Slate and Sap, there may be additionally La Cocinita, the setting for onsite cooking lessons. On our first evening, although, La Concinita was remodeled into the gorgeous setting for a non-public chef tasting. The ten-course meal was actually a culinary journey, that includes a powerful array of dishes. It started with a lightweight chunk : Chaya dip serviced with tortilla chips, adopted by a watermelon salad topped with braised pork stomach. The principle programs included pork relleno and a tilapia dish. For dessert, there was a decadent s’mores cocktail and a corn crème brûlée. The very best half? Each dish was made utilizing “hyper-local” elements, principally from the close by village of San Antonio. Although elevated, the meals we ate throughout our 10-course meal was undoubtedly, and unmistakeably Belizean. 

It’s additionally at La Cocinita that we received the possibility to get hands-on with studying about all issues conventional cooking—from the life-cycle of maize to prepping and making tortillas—all below the steerage of the lodge’s expert Belizean cooks.

Lastly, we received to benefit from the native delicacy that’s pibil. Gradual-cooked for greater than 24 hours, the pork meat was used to make scrumptious pork tacos for an evening that, mixed with a particular blessing by a Maya H-men made for an additional charming finish to an already memorable keep.