Published 28th Jun. 2021
Reading time
Matachica is located close to Belize's Great Barrier Reef, on a powdery white sand beach. Think low-key barefoot vibe; more for the laid-back traveller than the set-in-their-ways traditionalist.
Matachica offers a relaxed atmosphere and a splash of colour, from the pastel shaded cabanas to the vibrant multi-patterned tables and chairs in the entrance. The interior walls of the main building are painted in warm cosy colours, while lanterns and fans hang from the ceilings, and a mixture of art work and statues adorn the walls (as well as a smidge of peeling paint here and there).
Accommodation ranges from 25 individual beachfront and sea view casitas to one exclusive luxury villa, all decorated in an eclectic Bohemian style. Step past the hammock on the deck and through the shuttered wooden doors into the casitas that define rustic through their Central American furnishings and mosaic-tiled bathrooms. The Luxury Caribbean Villa is the exclusive two bedroom (both en suite) accommodation option that offers king beds, a living area and kitchenette as well as a screened patio.
Sample local flavours at award-winning Mambo restaurant, housed under a large palapa amid candelabras, local ceramics and soft music. Note that they only take children over 12 years old and describe their ambiance as 'mature'. The beachfront bar-lounge, under the domed thatch roof is the place to head to for Belizean beach -side living, the atmosphere is chilled and there is a wide collection of spirits and liqueurs, plus Cuban cigars and ambient music.
Complimentary activities abound at Matachica including kayaks, snorkelling, fishing and bicycles so you won't be short of things to do. If you're feeling too lethargic to venture out, enjoy the Jade Spa natural treatments or, for a dip, there's the hotel's infinity pool or the conveniently located ocean. Unfortunately the sea grass in the shallow waters means that guests should swim off the jetty for an ocean dip - a small price to pay really. After dinner the Cinema-Martini Lounge offers a huge plasma television screening of an extensive selection of classic films.
Why We Love It
Matachica is full of character, friendly staff and is the ideal place for a relaxing barefoot break.
Victoria House lies between picturesque white beaches and coconut groves with lush tropical gardens planted with hibiscus, bougainvillea and oleander.
On the island of Ambergris Caye, Victoria House is small and exclusive with a casual ambience and friendly staff and just a short boat ride away from one of the world's best dive sites.
The plantation rooms, casitas and private villas are stylishly furnished with cool white fabrics and handcrafted furniture. All rooms are located in lush tropical gardens with palm trees and sweeping views of the reef and white sand beach.
At night guests can enjoy delicious fresh seafood in the hotel's restaurant and a cocktail in the cosy palapa bar. The pool is perfect for relaxing and overlooks the turquoise Caribbean and the new spa (as of 2016) offers a range of treatments from radiant face masks to hot stone massages. In addition to the excellent diving, activities nearby include fishing, snorkeling, birding and cave tubing.
Why We Love It
In true Bill & Ted fashion, Victoria House was voted 2009 Most Excellent Beach Hotel in the Americas by Conde Nast Johansens Magazine.
Beautiful Belize is a dinky Central American nation home to world-class snorkelling and diving, diverse wildlife and jungle-clad ruins. Whether you’re eager to explore the world’s second-largest barrier reef or delve into ancient Mayan culture on a temple tour, we’ll tailor every aspect of your trip to suit you. Belize is a great family-friendly destination, so little adventurers (and adults, too) can enjoy the likes of rural horse rides, cave tubing and wildlife walks. Be it a beachfront hotel or a remote jungle lodge, we work with a range of properties perfect for families, couples and solo travellers alike.
ENQUIRE NOWPractical advice and inspiration for your next trip
On a recent trip to Belize, our head of PR, Rebecca enjoyed a true tropical adventure. She explored the paradisical Placencia Peninsula, enjoyed some R&R
31st October 2023 - Belize Travel Tips
Despite Belize’s pocket-sized proportions, the Central American marvel packs a punch when it comes to encounters of the wild kind. Tucked between Mexico and Guatemala,
13th January 2023 - Belize Safari & Wildlife
Guatemala and Belize are two classic Central American destinations, and make for one of the best country combos on the Original Travel books. Gum's the
28th June 2021 - Belize Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
