Honeymoon Ideas for Coffee Lovers

Nicaragua

Thanks to Nicaragua’s temperate climate, rich vegetation and fertile volcanic soil, coffee is one of the country’s most significant exports. Ninety-five percent of its coffee is grown in its north-central mountain regions around Matagalpa and Jinotega, where the misty cloud forest canopies create the perfect atmosphere for growing aromatic beans. large and small plantations (known as fincas) and co-operatives operate around the country, many of which are multi-generational family businesses. Harvest usually takes place between November and February.

Where to stay: Set in a historic hacienda in the colonial city of Granada, the seven-room Tribal Hotel has an eclectic décor and a spectacular bijou pool and four-poster day beds. Soak up the romance of the torch-lit courtyard over tapas and cocktails. Room rates start at $95 a night. For a taste of what it’s like to live in a cloud forest, stay at the Selva Negra Ecolodge, a family-run hotel and coffee estate owned by fifth-generation coffee growers just 90 miles from Granada. Located in the highlands around Matagalpa, it has 23 bungalows and chalets located on garden paths that lead directly to mountain trails. Take hikes or a horseback ride into the rainforest to spot howler monkeys and rare orchids, and refuel with gourmet organic meals provided by the farm. Bungalows start at $85 a night.

What to do: At Selva Negra, the coffee tour and tasting takes you from seed to coffee mug. The process, from planting, picking and rack drying to milling is revealed, plus there’s an on-site coffee museum. The best time for a coffee tour in this region is from November to February. For an excursion closer to Granada, take a tour of Café Las Flores, where they hand-pick their shade-grown coffee on the slopes of the Mombacho Volcano.

Photo Credit: Susie Campbell