Isleta El Espino, an island rental in Nicaragua

A Private Island Ecolodge in Lake Nicaragua

Floating in Lake Nicaragua, Isleta El Espino is a solar-powered private island retreat. Conceived in 2015 by its owners with architect Carlos Hernandez, the ecolodge embodies sustainable tropical design, built by local artisans using volcanic stone and native woods. The five-bedroom property features custom furniture from Masaya & Co., a plunge pool, and a yoga deck. Staff includes daily housekeeping and a private chef. Located within the Isletas de Granada, an archipelago formed by the Mombacho volcano, it offers stylish isolation just a short boat ride from the colonial city of Granada.

Life on the island revolves around the water. A central pool is the heart of the property, surrounded by lounge chairs and tropical foliage. A dedicated yoga platform offers views across Lake Nicaragua toward the Mombacho volcano. Guests can launch kayaks and paddleboards directly from the island’s shore to explore the surrounding archipelago, or simply find a quiet hammock to watch the egrets and herons pass by.

Layout

The lodge’s five en-suite bedrooms are spread across four structures that sleep up to 13 guests. There are two deluxe Casitas by the lake, two rooms in the two-story Treetop Rancho, and one secluded Bungalow. Four rooms feature king beds, while the Bungalow has a king bed and a bunk bed. Common areas, including the pool and dining space, are centrally located. En-suite bathrooms are open-air designs, screened for privacy yet allowing you to connect with the sounds of the lake and the lush tropical vegetation just outside.

Experiences

Glide through the calm waters surrounding the island on a complimentary kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Schedule a private yoga session on the dedicated deck or book a relaxing massage.

Good to know

Access to the island is by boat only from the nearby Marina Cocibolca, with transfers for check-in and check-out included. Additional boat trips during your stay can be arranged for a fee, and after-hours service incurs a surcharge. The lodge is proudly off-grid and runs on solar power, encouraging mindful energy use. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the property, including on the boat.

Amenities and services

Swimming pool, daily housekeeping, breakfast, restaurant and bar, complimentary welcome drink, wifi, 24-hour security, kayaks and paddleboards, yoga platform, pool towels, tour assistance. Additional charge: airport shuttle, massage services.

Around

The island is just minutes away from the bustling, historic city of Granada, which was named by Hernández de Córdoba after the ancient Spanish city of Granada. It is known for its colonial-era architecture, and bears a resemblance to Antigua in Guatemala. Like Antigua, it sits in the shade of a volcano - in this case, Masaya, Mombacho and Ometepe Island. Unlike Antigua, however, it sits on a lake, Nicaragua. Sites worth visiting are Parque Central and the private Mi Museo, with its collection of Pre-Columbian ceramics. Activities include hiking, fishing, water sports, horseback riding, dining, shopping and exploration.

Location

Isletas de Granada, Lake Nicaragua, Nicaragua. Nearest airport: Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International (33km). Boat service from Marina Cocibolca for check-in and check-out is included in your reservation.