Cojol'Ya - Tree Tops Room

Go back in time in traditional Tz'utujil Maya architecture, fused with elegance and modern comfort. Built in the style of a traditional Tz'utujil family compound, our off-the-grid, lush garden setting on the shore of Lake Atitlan is a glimpse into living lightly on the Earth. The space 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 throughout 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 Guest House). The Tree Tops Room is a spacious studio on the second floor of a tower, accessible via an outdoor spiral staircase. Breakfast is included. The space has an in-suite wash basin, solar hot water shower and china commode. The stand-alone, bio-gas producing modern toilet is shared. Our grounds are designed to display the essence of the native flora and geological formations and not suitable for people with difficulty walking on unpaved and uneven surfaces. Guest access Guests enjoy the gardens and lake shore. We have a row boat and a dock for swimming. At the shore, there is a stone platform overlooking the lake--ideal for yoga, sunbathing and enjoying a bonfire in the evening. The main house is our dining area, living room and kitchen where breakfast is served until 8:00am. The roof terrace is available for guests of the Tree Tops room 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 volcanos, 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 great restaurants within walking distance we can recommend. Other things to note We have two friendly mature dogs --a male Labrador Retriever, and a younger, very loving German Shepherd female. Our dogs greet you with wagging tails and do not jump. We also have two very spoiled cats. This space is not for young children, due to the uneven surfaces, the spiral staircase and the roof terrace. It is definitely not for elders, as the uneven surfaces can easily cause falls, especially at night. The setting is rustic and natural, with forest paths amongst natural rock outcroppings and steps everywhere to accommodate the natural gradations.