Costalegre, Mexico – Nothing defines Las Alamandas more than its exquisite natural setting and abundance of wildlife – and the jewel in the crown is the extraordinary variety of birds that can be seen here, about 270 species, living in their natural habitat. To bring this natural spectacle into full view for guests, Las Alamandas has introduced personalized bird-viewing excursions conducted by a local biologist who is a leading expert on the regional bird life.
The bird-viewing excursions are individually planned for each guest to fulfill their personal expectations and preferences. On the excursions, guests may hike forest trails, visit sweet-water lagoons and sail to island rookeries.
Las Alamandas is a paradise for bird lovers because it is like an enormous open-air aviary. Las Alamandas is located in an undeveloped region of Mexico known as the Costalegre where some 270 different species of birds have been identified, notably a number of rare and colorful tropical ones.
Black Ibis, Osprey, Barn Swallows, American Coot, American Crestel, Northern Jacana and numerous others roost in the trees and gather on the banks of the lagoons and the river, the Rio San Nicolas. Occasionally, rare and exotic birds visit such as Pink Flamingos and Roseate Spoonbills. Great Brown Pelicans fly a few feet above the Pacific fishing for their next meal, Frigate Birds swoop in expansive circles overhead, Blue-Footed Boobies and Brown Boobies do their legendary mating dance, and Thicket Tinamous announce their presence with their hauntingly sweet call. Islets that dot the coast are bustling rookeries for thousands of birds.
Conducting the personalized bird-viewing excursions is biologist and professional guide Marisela Lazareno, who has a wealth of knowledge about the avian life on the Costalegre. Ms. Lazarena developed her expertise studying, researching and helping preserve the biodiversity of the region, working with universities, ecological organizations and eco-tourism programs. The excursions must be arranged in advance, preferably a month beforehand to ensure availability of the guide.
On the private trails and waterways of Las Alamandas, guests can focus their binoculars on a San Blas Jay, Red-Breasted Chat, Mexican Parrotlet, Golden Vireo, Sinaloa Wren or Orange-Breasted Bunting, as well as perhaps spot a wild boar, white-tail coati, deer, badger or giant sea turtle laying eggs in the sand (where they will be protected through Las Alamandas’ successful Turtle Protection Program). The opportunity to experience inspiring, one-of-a-kind, bird-viewing excursions at a luxurious hideaway on the Mexican Pacific is one of the unique features that set Las Alamandas apart from other resorts.
All-suite Las Alamandas is set within its own secluded and pristine 1,500-acre nature preserve on Mexico’s Pacific coast, midway between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo. The weather is balmy, the water warm for swimming and water sports, and guests can choose from numerous activities – from hiking and boat excursions to surfing and horseback riding.
The exceptionally spacious and beautifully appointed suites, with vibrant contemporary Mexican chic décor, are designed for casual indoor-outdoor living with spacious terraces, private Jacuzzis and panoramic views. The delicious and healthy contemporary Mexican cuisine, savored al fresco at Oasis Restaurant or by the sand at La Palapa Beach Club, is prepared with freshly caught seafood and vegetables, lettuces, herbs and fruits grown in the resort’s own organic gardens.
Las Alamandas boasts one of the most beautiful natural environments of any resort. It is nestled on its own private sweep of white-sand beach, with a rocky cape at both ends, amid verdant gardens of towering palms, flowing fountains, expansive lawns and flowering plants. All around are untouched beaches where sea turtles lay their eggs, lagoons and streams that are habitats for numerous species of birds, jungle terrain traversed by trails that are ideal for biking and hiking, and lookout points with dramatic panoramas of the coast.
The gamut of facilities and activities includes: lighted tennis court, beach volleyball, half basketball court, croquet, lawn chess, mountain bikes, 60-foot swimming pool, fully equipped air-conditioned gym, ping-pong, horseback riding, bird watching, kayaks (doubles and singles), hiking, surfing and boogie boarding. A Kids Club offers a program of games, arts and crafts, and activities. A lounge with a big-screen TV is an ideal spot to watch movies and sports events.
For more information and reservations, call 888-882-9616 toll free in U.S. and Canada; + (52) 322 285-5500 in Mexico; email info(at)alamandas.com; or visit alamandas.com.Located 80 miles south of Puerto Vallarta along Mexico’s famed Costalegre coast, Las Alamandas Resort is Mexico’s ultimate escape. Owned and operated by Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño, this chic private estate offers its guests the highest standards of personalized hospitality in an exquisite tropical setting.
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