Casa Dorado Bed & Breakfast Hotel

I stayed at Casa Dorado during the peak whale-watching season with a friend, her husband and teenage daughter, and we had an amazing time! Leonel was there to receive us, and he was incredibly warm, welcoming, and friendly. The next morning we discovered that he's also an amazing cook! His breakfasts are divine and delicious, with very attentive service. Leonel also knows a lot about the area, and easily connected us to services, places to see, and things to do in Samaná. The home is very beautiful, with warm decor, giving it a homey atmosphere. It almost felt like my dream home! The living room is very comfortable and family-friendly, with cable TV and a DVD library if you want to spend a night curled up on the couch. There were also small details that I appreciated greatly — like connect 4 and dominos to play to pass some time. Upstairs, there's an nice collection of book to read and browse through while laying on one of the super-comfy hammocks. The home is located a short walking distance from the beach, restaurants, and nightlife, but far enough to have some much needed peace and quiet and R&R. Casa Dorado is really a beautiful B&B that perfectly complements the town of Las Galeras.

I have stayed at Casa Dorado several times before — what an incredible find! The interior is incredibly relaxing and spacious. With indoor and outdoor living rooms and lounge spaces, it is beautifully light and airy day and night. Set in a neighborhood off the main road in Las Galeras, it's both quiet, private, and a short walk to some of the islands most beautiful beaches — one of which, La Playita, is just a 10 minute walk down the road. Not to be missed is the hike from Casa Dorado to Playa Rincon (with Casa Dorado's own guide, Lionel! ). This is absolutely magical. You'll walk through several of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and they're usually entirely deserted. Casa Dorado's breakfast is also an incredible way to start the day — it always includes fresh local fruit and coffee, as well as something substantial and delicious — eggs and/or pancakes. Both Catherine, the owner, and Lionel, who manages Casa Dorado, are incredibly friendly and helpful — Lionel's skills include cooking fresh lobster dinners and booking you a whale watch in no time! If you're headed to Las Galeras or the Samana Penninsula Casa Dorado is a MUST! Truly a special place where you'll have a unique and beautiful stay, off the beaten path of the main street.

I had the pleasure of staying a few nights with friends at this gorgeous home away from home, and I would highly recommend it if you are planning a trip to Las Galeras for three reasons. One, The location can't be beat! It's set back a ways from town, so it's peaceful and quiet, but it lies right next to one of the best secrets in Samana, and the highlight of our trip… an amazing hike to Playa Rincon, one of the top rated beaches in the Caribbean! This hike is a must do in Las Galeras! Two, Leonel and Catherine were so helpful! Leonel was our chef, guide, security, and even schooled us in a few rounds of dominoes. The food was amazing (request his hummus; it's better than some Greek restaurants I've been to! ), and his attentiveness was unbeatable. He made our experience unique and fun! And Catherine, the owner of the property, was incredibly helpful. She gave us great advice about what to do around town and made us feel at home in her house. It was as if we had the inside scoop on Las Galeras. Definitely not something you get with just any property. It was fabulous! And three, the house is super comfortable and homey. There are several different room options, so it's perfect for a big group traveling together, and all of the common spaces give you the room to be together as a group, as well as the space to spread out and take time to relax and enjoy the Caribbean pace of life. I would definitely go back and hope to soon!

This is one of my favorite places on the island! Casa Dorado is the perfect place to explore some fo the most breathtaking landscapes and beaches in the Dominican Republic. Away from your typical tourist traps, Casa Dorado is your home away from home, the breakfast is the best and ready to fuel you for the adventure ahead. Leonel is the perfect host, always happy to point you in the right direction and cook up a tasty Dominican meal. I highly recommend visiting Casa Dorado in Las Galeras on your next Dominican adventure! You won't regret it.

Casa Dorado is truly a one of a kind experience along the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. The house is large but cozy with excellent service and food that is out of this world. I've been back several times after my first stay and always recommend it to travelers looking for a more private and less touristy option. There's no better place in Las Galeras!