Aldous Huxley famously called Guatemala's Lake Atitlan "the most beautiful lake in the world." So if Atitlan—a 130-square-kilometer, blue-green beauty surrounded by three towering volcanoes—is the most beautiful lake in the world, then Casa Palopó, the nine-room hotel nestled in the serene hills above the lake, is the most beautiful hotel on the most beautiful lake in the world. If the breathtaking lake views from your private swimming pool don't impress, then the colorful

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Aldous Huxley famously called Guatemala's Lake Atitlan "the most beautiful lake in the world." So if Atitlan—a 130-square-kilometer, blue-green beauty surrounded by three towering volcanoes—is the most beautiful lake in the world, then Casa Palopó, the nine-room hotel nestled in the serene hills above the lake, is the most beautiful hotel on the most beautiful lake in the world. If the breathtaking lake views from your private swimming pool don't impress, then the colorful walls, unique art, gleaming wood floors, expansive decks, delicious food, and attentive staff will.

The hotel's main building houses seven private rooms, multiple decks, a pool, a bar, and a restaurant. Another building, the Villa, is located a few hundred feet above the main hotel and offers two luxury suites (in addition to dual helipads, butler service, and a private infinity pool).

The main building is thoughtfully decorated with art from local Guatemalans and international artists like Fernando Botero. Rooms offer luxury accoutrements like Frette linens, private balconies, and views from the bathtub. The master suite has traditional blue Mayan walls and 20-foot ceilings. Decorated with contemporary and traditional art, it offers a plush king bed, large sunken soaking tub, and lengthy deck with three separate sitting areas, all offering views of Lake Atitlan and the lush hillside behind the hotel.

Casa Palopó's restaurant, 6.8 Palopó, features a deck where guests can enjoy a quiet breakfast of local organic coffee and chilaquiles (the traditional Guatemalan breakfast of tortilla chips topped with smoked chorizo, mozzarella, and a rich sauce made from red pepper, onion, and tomato) or a romantic sunset dinner of eggplant ravioli, rack of lamb, or filet of robalo.

While it may be easy to get lost in the peace and quiet of Casa Palopó, there are also a variety of activities to keep you busy. Lake Atitlan is ringed by 12 cities, all with their own distinct character. A five- to six-hour private boat tour of the area costs less than $100. Make sure you include enough time for a stop at San Marcos La Laguna, which is known for massage and meditation. Amp things up with a coffee plantation tour at a variety of locations, or if you're more adventurous, climb one of the three volcanoes—all via guides that Casa Palopó is happy to recommend.

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