Set between the forested slopes of the Cordillera Mountain Range and the golden sands of Playa Grande Beach, Amanera is a secluded hideaway providing exclusive access to the wild north of the Dominican Republic.
This year, from 24-26 March, the clifftop retreat will host a three-day celebration of the island’s rich culinary and imbibing heritage for guests and non-residents, seeing the resort’s Executive Chef Cesar Landeo partner with award-winning guest mixologist Valentino Longo to showcase the destination’s finest ingredients.
Chef Landeo joined Amanera in September 2022 following almost a decade working for a leading luxury hotel brand in Peru and Anguilla. His cuisine draws on traditional Dominican practises whilst incorporating international techniques and showcases locally sourced seasonal produce, supporting generations-old farming families.
Whilst Chef Landeo will provide delectable fare throughout the weekend, Valentino, Bombay Sapphire’s ‘Most Imaginative Bartender 2020’ and the founder of the renowned Shōshin Art Club in Miami will create exquisite cocktails, using local ingredients, to accompany each culinary offering.
In partnership with Oliver & Oliver, the premium Dominican rum distillery, the first night will see a cocktail and canapé reception held on the hotel’s sunset platform with its staggering ocean views. A DJ will provide enthralling live music throughout the evening.
On night two, following sundowner cocktails at the Lounge Bar, savour a tasting menu with rum pairings celebrating the region’s incredible produce. The final evening will offer a relaxed dinner at the Beach Club with imbibing and dining under the stars.
For those wishing to extend their time at Amanera, the intimate retreat offers 24 standalone Casitas and a two-bedroom Bay View Casa, all with spectacular ocean views. The resort’s remarkable setting serves as a springboard to an array of outdoor activities from surfing and kitesurfing to horseback riding in the rainforest, canyoning, and invigorating hikes to dramatic waterfalls.
Whilst Amanera’s breathtaking background offers an adventure playground for all, on-property guests have access to floodlight clay tennis courts, a pickleball court and the neighbouring Playa Grande Golf Club, where 10 of the holes are played directly along the coastline.
For those simply desiring a tranquil escape, utmost relaxation awaits in the jungle-cocooned Wellness Casa, comprising three double treatment rooms and an extensive spa menu with treatments inspired by the ancient shamanic healing traditions of the Taínos.
