Francis Ford Coppola Opens New Property in Guatemala

Francis Ford Coppola’s Family Coppola Hideaways collection has introduced a new luxury property in Guatemala: Cassa Zenda. The exclusive-use private waterfront villa, which is set on the banks of Lake Izabal in the country’s Rio Dulce region, is now accepting reservations. 

Cassa Zenda is comprised of four suite bungalows accommodating a maximum of 16 guests, all set where the Rio Dulce meets Lake Izabal, which is Guatemala’s largest lake. The house host, Elena Garces, also oversees the interior design of the property, which incorporates custom furnishings and contemporary Guatemalan textiles. 

To maintain an indoor / outdoor sense of living, the layout has three completely open-air lounge spaces with fully equipped bars, a full kitchen and an al fresco dining room. There is also a dock with two WaveRunners, a jet ski, a Natuique ski boat and a 38 foot yacht; also on property is a saltwater pool with a waterfall and a Jacuzzi. 

A concierge, house manager, house butler, private chef, housekeeping staff and a boat captain all provide services, with the staff able to arrange bespoke adventure experiences. Customized itineraries can include an exploration of Cassa Zenda’s jungle econology and immersion in the local Rio Dulce culture; water sports such as water skiing, kayaking and hydrofoiling; hiking to nearby thermal pools; and restorative yoga under a palapa.

The resort is located to allow for a two-, three- or four-resort getaway together with other Family Coppola Hideaways properties: Turtle Inn, Blancaneaux Lodge and Coral Caye in Belize, as well as La Lancha in Guatemala. Guests arriving by boat from Turtle Inn to Cassa Zenda will be able to take in coastal views of the Belizean great barrier reef before approaching the Rio Dulce. For a two-resort stay combined with La Lancha, guests may opt for a road, helicopter or private charter flight transfer.

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