Cojol'Ya - Landmark at Lake Atitlan Guest House

Go back in time in traditional Tzutujil Maya architecture, fused with elegance and modern comfort. Built in the style of a traditional Tzutujil family compound, our off-the-grid, lush garden setting on the shore of Lake Atitlan is a glimpse into living lightly on the Earth. Featured in Architectural Digest's Exotic Homes in August 2002, "From the Ground Up: An American Activist Honors Tradition in Guatemala," your visit to Cojol'Ya will be inspiring on many levels. Experience the unique architecture and back-strap loom woven textiles designed by Candis and used through the rooms. Especially interesting to bird watchers, naturalists and those interested in experiencing organic, sustainable systems, our home blends seamlessly with its environment....invisible architecture is the specialty of the owner. We have two charming spaces available for individuals, couples or groups of four traveling together (see our other listing for the Tree Tops Room). The spacious Guest House, with breakfast included, is a suite -- a bedroom and a sitting area with table and chairs. The space has an in-suite wash basin, hot water shower and china commode. The water-less toilet is shared. Our grounds are designed to impart the essence of the native flora and geological formations and not suitable for people with difficulty walking. Guests will enjoy the gardens and lake shore. We have a row boat and a dock for swimming. The main house is our dining area, living room and our kitchen where you will enjoy your breakfasts and can have meals by special arrangement. The roof terrace is available to enjoy for yoga, reading or sipping a glass of wine while watching the moon rise. From our home as your base, you can climb San Pedro Volcano, hike in the mountains to see the Resplendent Quetzal as well as other exotic bird species, visit Santiago Atitlan and its many interesting attractions, as well as other towns around the lake. There are restaurants in town we can recommend. We live on the property and we will be at home to welcome you and help arrange your activities, if you wish. Isabel is a professional chef and she can prepare meals for you for additional charges. She can also prepare vegetarian meals and her traditional Tzutujil fare is delicious. For those into fermented foods, we make our own kombucha and sauerkraut. Although our home is located on a small, wooded island in the middle of the cornfields and at the edge of Lake Atitlan, we are just a short walk to "pop up" bistros, musical jam sessions, artists' studios and the active life of a Guatemalan Mayan town. Even the town hospital is just a few minutes away by foot. Be aware that one must be an active walker to be comfortable here. Walk out the short distance (2.5 blocks) from our home to the road and then catch a Tuk-Tuk or walk into town. You can also travel by commercial boat to and from our dock. Our country home is ideal for those who love to walk and it is safe. If you arrive by car for a small fee, you can park your car in a safe location a short distance from our home. We have one very friendly mature dog, a Labrador puppy and a cat. Our dog greets you with a wagging tail and does not jump.