Experience deluxe living at the Dominican Republic’s first resort
It’s no secret that the Dominican Republic’s resorts are some of the best in the Caribbean—and the world. For over 50 years, they’ve invited travelers with a plethora of amenities, savory Spanish cuisine and, of course, dreamy beachfront locations backed by soaring mountains. Today, the resorts of lively Punta Cana are most popular for their ever-present party scene and nightlife, but the DR’s long history of serving up top-rated tropical getaways actually started in a quieter locale known for its laid-back atmosphere offering pure vacation bliss.
It all started at Casa de Campo, a mega-complex that’s known as the DR’s first resort, built in 1974. And, it sure does set the standard for deluxe experiences….
It’s a quiet hideaway
As the saying goes: location, location, location. There’s a reason it’s so important, and in the DR, the location determines the vibe. Casa de Campo boasts an idyllic, secluded beachfront location in La Romana, a quaint town situated between Santo Domingo and Punta Cana. The resort’s low-key setting in a private, gated neighborhood makes it the perfect place to escape the buzz of Punta Cana, and truly unwind. And in case one beach isn’t enough, it also neighbors Playa Minitas Beach, considered to be one of the island’s best stretches of sand.
Luxury abounds
Casa de Campo’s 7,000-acre complex is filled with posh furniture and amenities. Let’s start with the rooms, suites and villas. Spacious rooms each feature a private balcony or terrace, bathroom with a glass-enclosed shower, a separate tub and luxury bath products, a walk-in closet, flat-screen television, minibar, and free Wi-Fi.
The resort also just unveiled new Premier Junior Club and Presidential Suites, where you can indulge in Egyptian cotton linens, customized pillow and aromatherapy menus, nightly turn-down service, artisanal gourmet coffee and tea, as well as access to The Premier Club’s exclusive bar and lounge areas. Large groups can opt for a villa, with up to 10 bedrooms, a kitchen and living area. No matter what you choose, all rooms come with a personal golf cart, so you can tee off at the resort’s world-class courses.
Finally, no 5-star experience is complete without gourmet dining. There are 17 eclectic restaurants, bars and quick stops. For international cuisine, try Causa, known for its colorful Peruvian dishes, including ceviche, marinated skewers and hearty stews. At La Caña (named after the sugar cane crops surrounding La Romana) you’ll find French fare, while La Piazzetta, a Mediterranean-inspired eatery originally designed by famed couturier Oscar de La Renta serves up popular Italian favorites. If you’re looking to dine with a view, then SBG, Minitas Beach Club and La Casita’s waterfront locations would fit the bill. And unlike most resorts, Casa de Campo even has two food trucks that offer Argentine cuisine, as well as pizzas and flatbreads.
You’ll catch some serious R&R
There’s no shortage of ways to relax in style at Casa de Campo. The private Minitas Beach awaits for guests to bask in the Caribbean sunshine. There are also three pools with concierge service throughout the resort (including an infinity pool and swim-up bar), so it’ll be hard not to kick back while you’re there. Plus, the resort recently revamped its wellness spa, which now offers 13 treatment rooms.
The 18,000 square-feet state-of-the-art facility combines technology and gorgeous natural scenery to provide a modern, zen experience. Here, guests are sure to enjoy a wide array of detox sessions, facials and more. And, not only will you feel good—you’ll look good too. Casa de Campo has a well-equipped salon with both hair and nail appointments for the full beauty treatment.
There’s more adventure than you’d expect
It’s rare to find a resort that has everything Casa de Campo has to offer, namely three award-winning golf courses designed by Pete Dye, as well as an equestrian center, shopping, entertainment and off-site excursions. In terms of its golf facilities, Casa de Campo is home to Teeth of the Dog, best known as one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean for its 18-hole layout overlooking the sea. There’s also a restaurant on-site to retire for a bite after a few rounds. Guests can additionally access The Links, a course that weaves throughout the resort, and Dye Fore, which features cliffside holes.
The resort’s equestrian center is also top-rated. Guests can follow expert guides on adventures to see the best of La Romana’s natural scenery—think duck-filled lakes, sprawling sugarcane fields, water buffalo and more. Or, opt for horseback riding and polo lessons back at the stables. The adventures don’t end there.
Even if you don’t choose horseback riding, the resort can arrange off-site excursions, such as a boat ride to Catalina Island and guided tours through the DR’s charming towns. Not to mention, guests can explore the Altos de Chavón cultural center, the perfect place to do some shopping and observe artists perfecting their craft, from mixing pottery to manufacturing silk.
With so much to offer, it’s no wonder why Casa de Campo has been the resort of choice for plenty of Hollywood stars as well as travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star experience. Simply put, it’s a one-stop shop for your needs, whether you’re looking for luxury, relaxation or adventure. The only question you’ll be asking yourself is whether you’ll be able to see it all in one trip.