Book the Amanera with VIP Benefits

Amanera, which means "peaceful water," is a resort located on the Dominican Republic's idyllic north coast. Massive Cordillera Septentrional Mountain Range surrounds the property, providing expansive ocean views and a cliff-top golf course.

Famed British architect John Heah developed the resort's 25 standalone casitas to exploit sweeping sea vistas. Moreover, he has been inducted into the prestigious group of architects who have built Aman properties with this spectacular debut. The brand's success story started with Aman's first resort, Amanpuri Thailand.

Location

Amanera Rio San Juan sits atop a rocky 60-foot cliff on the idyllic north coast of the island. It faces the private mile-long Playa Grande Beach and sets against a breathtaking view of the verdant jungle and the peninsula, promising guests space. Christopher Columbus proclaimed this location the most stunning on the planet in 1492. Moreover, the Puerto Plata international airport is 90 minutes away.

Accommodation Casitas

The main building of the luxury hotel, Casa Grande, which comprises the lobby, pool, kitchen, and lounge bar, is the focal point of Amanera. The two-story building features floating walkways, infinity pools, and dramatic ocean views. It eventually marries suspense with elegant simplicity, from the uniquely handmade tiled floors to the chaise lounges with light yellow and blue details.

Given its grandeur, the resort maintains an intimate atmosphere, with 25 free-standing casitas perched on a hillside overlooking the water. Moreover, everyone has a view of the ocean. Besides, 13 of the 25 casitas have an infinity swimming pool, which, albeit not heated, reaches a reasonable temperature by afternoon.

Casitas, made of warm brown wood and light grey marble, have several glass doors leading to the expansive open environment. From the elegant and harmless light fittings and remote-control wall-sized window shades to the hot tubs, which benefit from a dreamy atmosphere in an enclosed private garden, every aspect of the bedrooms has been given due attention.

Most 'Casitas' has one bedroom and a separate living room. Additionally, you have all the benefits of living with elegant and trendy décor and new high-tech gadgets. The 2-bedroom bay view pool casita is also available for those who want to stretch out and enjoy an ultra-luxurious space.

Dining Experience

The restaurant specializes in fresh organic dishes at a hidden terrace overlooking Playa Grande beach and the north coast. Additionally, the restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows have a spectacular view from inside, and the second-story bar is ideal for an aperitif.

Alternatively, you can enjoy a meal right on the coast at Club de Playa, the dining area with the ocean as a stunning backdrop to your Dominican culinary experience.

The Bar

The bar is also one of the top attractions. Catch the sunsets and scenic beauty from open-air seating, viewing the resort and Playa Grande while experiencing a soothing ocean breeze. Moreover, discover signature Dominican flavors through expertly made cocktails. You can also taste six different types of local Rum from the island.

Activities and Leisure

The directed nature walk headed by naturalist Antonio Alvarado, who guides you through the wilderness to an overlook with a literal bird's-eye view of the resort below, is a big attraction. Along the way, he vigorously points out camouflaged fauna. He also explains the medicinal uses of various flora and offers you ripe wild passion fruit.

Furthermore, the uninterrupted golden sands of Playa Grande beach meet the abundant tropical forest. Water sports include kayaking, kite surfing, and kiteboarding against a spectacular mountain backdrop. The historical riches of the Dominican Republic, such as colonial architecture and charming fishing villages, are also easily accessible. Moreover, the destination is one of the best Caribbean golf courses.

The resort also has extensive activities and expeditions in the surrounding region. These include hiking, water sports, boat trips, and cigar-making workshops. Still, the enchantment of Amanera lies in its simplicity and elegant presentation. No arrows are directing you anywhere, no fixed mealtimes or dressing codes. Besides, the 150 members of staff, most of whom are locals, are friendly and inviting. They ensure attentive service with a practiced eye for detail that is also subtle.

Private Pools

You'll probably spend the majority of your time in your casita. However, there's an irresistible pull toward your private pool. This you can see through the floor-to-ceiling glass from within the chic gallery. In true Aman fashion, the guest rooms have everything you might like. Everything is cleverly concealed from visibility not to block the views or distract from the thoughtful simplicity.

Moreover, rooftop gardens will make you feel like you have the whole resort for yourself. There are also hot tubs and infinity swimming pools with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Besides, the premises have a range of fitness lessons, including High-Intensity Interval Training. On-demand personal trainers and private workshops are also accessible.

Spa and Wellness

Relaxation can be in several forms at the Dominican Republic Amanera. Treatment rooms at the spa include ancient healing modalities and local plants, vegetables, spices, and the Aman skincare line.

Additionally, signature experiences are influenced by the moon phases. They start with a Palo Santo smudging ceremony and foot dipping ritual before focusing on grounding, nourishing, and purifying. Besides, yoga, dance classes, and a tennis match on one of the two clay courts are all options for sweat sessions.

Private Golf Club

The adjoining Playa Grande Golf course and Beach Club dubbed the "Pebble Beach of the Caribbean," is the first Aman location to access a well-equipped golf course. Robert Trent Jones Sr. engineered it, and his son Rees Jones revamped it. It features 18 holes scattered over 370 acres of coastline.

Guests also have access to the personal course. However, even those who can't swing a club want to go because the prime location provides the finest sunset views along the ridged, flowing shore. Furthermore, Playa Grande Golf Course has the most oceanside holes in the western hemisphere.

Takeaway

Amanera is peaceful and perfect for those seeking a private and tranquil escape and a good choice of restaurants and bars. The estate's flow is distinctively calm, relaxing, and accessible; guests travel at their own pace, and spaces are never cramped. The architecture integrates effortlessly with its lush green natural environment. It has a luscious and overgrown quality. The Pathways are un-manicured, and foliage is generally untamed.