Hacienda Siesta Alegre

Hacienda Siesta Alegre comprises three unique parts that come together into a one-of-a-kind property. Husband-and-wife owners, Greg and Linda, were initially focused on horses and started an equestrian farm. The pair built a stunning Spanish colonial residence known as the main house (where they reside when in town), and the inn gradually evolved from it. And the enchanting garden grounds with rainforest-like pockets, and views to El Yunque, proved to be the ideal backdrop for events, for which the property has become renowned. All three businesses remain in operation and blend beautifully.The Hacienda experience begins at the front gate -- where a dirt entrance drive leads past fenced paddocks and the main office (where check-in takes place), and up past the equestrian center and stables to the stunning main house. Here, terraces channel the Spanish countryside, and thriving bougainvillea vine in every bold shade adds tropical cheer. A gorgeous open-air terrace divides the main house from the self-serve honor bar and the communal “living room” -- an extravagant open-air pavilion where plush camelback couches with cowhide throws and rustic iron chandeliers invite chilling by a big stone fireplace. The open-plan kitchen is located here, and the space flows to a billiards and dining area, outside to the wedding lawn (with El Yunque in the distance), and to a wraparound terrace, overlooking nature, where breakfast is served. Most rooms are located just past the main house (beyond events activity), and while music may be heard in rooms on weekend evenings, guests are generally unaffected. 

This property is located in a rural pocket of Rio Grande, just above El Yunque National Rainforest. There are no sights or restaurants within walking distance of Hacienda, so a car is basically a requirement -- especially given lunch and dinner aren’t provided on the premises. It’s 17 minutes by car to the heart of El Yunque Forest where an abundance of nature activities are on offer, from zip-lining to waterfall hikes. It’s also a 17-minute drive to Luquillo Beach, and 10 minutes to Rio Grande where restaurants, shops, and conveniences can be found. San Juan is around a 35-minute drive away (via the tolls route), and the international airport is around 25 to 30 minutes depending on route and traffic. Free on-site parking is provided.

Each of Hacienda’s nine rooms has its own individual decorating scheme (all created by the owner). For example, the Treehouse Room features a wraparound terrace with hammocks and clawfoot tubs gazing out to lush greenery. The Bridal Room offers a more Old World tone with chandelier lighting, an elegant four-poster bed, and antique lace canopy, while Almendre gives a French-provincial-meets-tropical-farmhouse look, sleeping four in a sprawling warehouse-sized space. All rooms are generously sized with a rustic, romantic ambience throughout. Dark timber floors, exposed-beam ceilings, and French doors flowing outside are other common elements that add to the overall fairytale vibe. Rooms feature safes, free Wi-Fi, and digital door locks. However, TVs and telephones are notably absent. Bathrooms are boldly dressed, with black and white or Moroccan wall tiles, clawfoot baths, and white ruffled shower curtains. All are equipped with plush robes, toiletries (dispensed from pumps), and hairdryers. 

Features at the Hacienda aren't extensive, but they do add to the property's overall enchantment. Topping the list is the inn's daily breakfast, which is exceptional. It features a feast of Puerto Rican and Western specialties along with fresh fruit, juice, and warm crusty bread. However, lunch and dinner aren’t available and self-catering isn’t an option so guests should be prepared to venture out for other meals. There’s a huge open-air living room, a cozy library attached to the main house, and a small rectangular pool good for a refreshing dip, though the metal sun loungers and patio furniture nearby could use more padding. Guests also have access to various common garden terrace areas (unless an event is taking place). The property is an established events venue -- corporate gatherings and weddings can be tailored to budgets, numbers, and concepts. (Hacienda has several event coordinators on hand.) Free Wi-Fi is provided, and it worked well in the room during our stay. On-site parking is also free.