Hotel Cyvadier Plage

The family-owned Hotel Cyvadier bills itself as a place to unplug and unwind, and this simple hotel largely lives up to that aim. It’s located on a jungle-covered cliff that overlooks a beautiful cove, helping to make it feel secluded and special. Given this prime -- but isolated -- location, there are magnificent sea views from the open-air bar, restaurant, and strategically placed hammocks throughout the property. The hotel's lush grounds are full of blossoming flowers, fruit trees (delicious mangos when in season), and a few grassy areas that are perfect for morning yoga. The infinity-sign-shaped freshwater pool adds some funky flavor to the otherwise tropical vibe and is surrounded by lots of plants and colorful Austin-Powers mod loungers and lawn furniture. This hotel is low key for sure, which is a reason many development and NGO workers take refuge here from Haiti’s frenetic urban bustle. The hotel also gives back to the community and funds a local elementary school.  

Hotel Cyvadier is located just outside of Jacmel, a southern Haitian town known for its artisans and charming French colonial architecture. The hotel is a 15-minute drive from the center of town, where there’s a great oceanfront boardwalk, beautiful buildings, and an epic party during carnival. The hotel has a small beach on-site, but it’s not ideal for swimming. As an alternative, Raymond Las Bain is a nice sandy beach with a fish restaurant and a happening local party that’s a 10-minute drive away. Kabic Beach is another popular beach option that's a local surf spot, and is just over 15 minutes away by car. Bassin Bleu is an amazing waterfall and swimming hole with bright turquoise water that’s a one-hour drive from the hotel. Downtown Port-au-Prince is a winding two-hour drive from the hotel, and Port-au-Prince International Airport is a two-and-a half hour drive. Most guests either take a bus from Port-au-Prince or hire a driver for the journey. The Jacmel Airport is a 10-minute drive from Hotel Cyvadier, but commercial flights are unavailable.   

Like much of Haiti, Hotel Cyvadier was damaged during the 2010 earthquake. Most of the rooms were spared, but it took a few years for the hotel to rebuild the Premium Rooms, which reopened in 2014. As a result, these are the nicest rooms at the hotel. They're all air-conditioned and come with a king, queen, or two queen beds with floral bedspreads and garden views. Expect vaulted ceilings (in the top-floor rooms) plus hardwood furniture, white walls with colorful paintings or ornate metalwork sculptures, and private balconies and outdoor recliners. The Economy Standard Rooms are the hotel’s budget option and include either two queen or one twin bed, big wardrobes, and fans -- these rooms lack air-conditioning. Furniture and headboards are wicker and the desks really stand out, with their painted vibrant jungle scenes. Irons and ironing boards are unavailable, but free ironing and laundry service is offered with all stays. Free Wi-Fi is also available in all rooms. Bathrooms are basic, with neutral-tone tiled floors and walls, glass-brick showers with stone accents. Amenities include soap and shampoo. Hairdryers are available at the front desk, but keep in mind that water pressure in the showers isn't great.

There are a number of features that make this a great value in the Jacmel area. With its phenomenal ocean views and solid reviews, the restaurant's Haitian fusion and international cuisine is a big plus for this mid-range property. All stays also include a filling, a la carte breakfast. The next door bar shares the views but adds a big flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Its sophisticated tropical-lounge vibe still feels beachy, with its many neutral-toned plush rattan love seats and armchairs. There’s also live music on the weekends. The hotel’s freshwater pool isn’t huge, but is a great place to unwind in its lush surroundings set with 60s mod chairs, tables, and loungers. Unfortunately, the beach near the hotel isn't swimmable. The front desk can arrange massages, tours, taxis, and Port-au-Prince transportation. The hotel has a 70-person conference room and free purified water stations. Other amenities include free laundry and ironing service, 24/7 security, and gated parking. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.