This post is also available in:
Spanish
I am always looking to venture beyond Casa every once in a while to explore this paradise country and find some of the many untouched corners we are yet to explore. Recently, we decided to go to Eco Del Mar in Pedernales, located right next to the entrance of the Jaragua National Park and Bahía de las Águilas. This charming beach complex had recently opened a couple of weeks before our visit and is fully equipped with all the commodities needed for a comfortable stay – (including tents, showers, restrooms, restaurants and a bar).
Our experience began late Friday night as we drove under the star-light sky to the site. Upon our arrival it was almost impossible not to be charmed by the quaint and simple wooden decorations and the beautiful dim lights hanging from the trees that surround Eco del Mar. The bar was open, the gazebos with the dinner tables were ready and awesome music was playing. We were warmly received by the hosts and owners; Mrs. Katherine Cruz and Mr. Aldo Meroni, who made sure dinner was being prepped for us.
Before we could finish taking in the beauty of the site, we were treated to welcome cocktails and a great conversation with Mr. Meroni, who is certainly one to keep you entertained with his charisma and charm. The fresh fish with coconut dinner was amazing. Although I’m not one to rave about fish, I can surely say it was delicious and a real treat – the best I’ve ever had!
After dinner we left to sleep on the tents they have set up right on the beach. We are not talking about just any kind of camping, this is GLAMPING! The tents can accommodate a maximum of 28 guests. Sleeping while listening to the calming sound of the waves breaking on the shore was an incredible experience.
The next morning, after a cold shower at the open air showers, we helped ourselves to a traditional Dominican breakfast, including mangú, fried eggs, cheese and sausages. After breakfast, we were ready for the tour to Bahía de las Águilas! Eco del Mar’s private boat was waiting for us on the beach and after hopping on, we didn’t have to worry about snacks or drinks because it was all catered for us! After a day of fun at Bahía de las Águilas, it was time to head out but not before fishing while watching the beautiful sunset on the ocean.
Upon our arrival back at Eco del Mar, a big platter of fried fish, fritos (fried plantains) and sweet potatoes was waiting for us, which was nothing short to perfect after the long day of drinking at the beach. As the night progressed I decided to go sit by the beach and take in the experience. I never thought I would be welcomed by the sight of the Milky Way Galaxy lighting the sky. Being a city guy myself, I couldn’t help but stare at its vastness and be amazed at how small and insignificant our existence can be. Having the opportunity to gaze at it in its full glory made me fall in love with Eco del Mar even more than I already was, so much in fact that I jumped at the opportunity to go back there 2 weeks later.
I also know that Eco del Mar is developing a small eco resort within its 200,000 square meters property, with 460 meters of beachfront. Given that the owners have all the legal permits to start development, I can’t wait to go back when the suites and villas are ready! The project, which will be of the highest standard and catering to an exclusive clientele, has envisioned a total integration of nature into its design, which was conceptualized by architect and landscaping specialist Gianfranco Paghera (www.paghera.com), assisted by Claudio Landi and Giuseppe Timperio.
The “Eco del Mar Resort De Charme and Luxury Villas” project contemplates a boutique hotel with 15 suites and 70 different sized villas, two beach clubs, a beauty farm & spa with thalassotherapy, commercial spaces, a golf shooting range, tennis courts, nautical sports and eco trails to the surrounding areas.
And while we can’t wait for all of that to be ready, I encourage you to visit Eco del Mar soon for a camping experience unlike any other.
Eco del Mar
Booking and Information: (829) 576-7740, ecodelmar.com.do, info@ecodelmar.com.do
Instagram: @ecodelmar