Stayed 2 nights at Alila Ventana in January and figured I’d add a fresh data point since other trip reports helped a ton when planning.
Booked 45k per night a couple weeks out and somehow snagged a Fri/Sat on a long weekend. Seems like weekends drop with 2 night minimums and weekdays are easier for 1 night, but honestly I wouldn’t recommend just one night. Two felt perfect. One would be rushed, three might start to drag.
Room wise, Explorist got us a same category “upgrade” to a king fireplace room. Fully booked so no suite chance. Room itself was great, balcony views, soaking tub, DIY bath salts, but these rooms are stacked and we could hear upstairs noise. Also smelled a bit like a campground from nearby fireplaces. Not a dealbreaker, but something to know.
Property is long and spread out. Meadow pool and infinity hot tub have the views and are where everyone hangs out. Mountain pool and Japanese bath are clothing optional and kind of awkward. Tried it once, won’t again.
Food was excellent and truly filling. Sur House does breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Same brunch menu until mid afternoon, dinner menu stays the same but is solid. Service was friendly but a bit inexperienced and slow at times. Smores at night were a highlight. Poolside food was great for casual bites. They recently changed the all inclusive window to start at 4pm check in and end at 11am check out.
Did a few experiences. The forager hike was a standout and free. Knife handle class was fun and worth paying for. Concierge communication was slow, so I’d book activities yourself as early as possible.
Very dog friendly. Like, dogs everywhere and staff loves them.
Weather was perfect mid 70s, but the sun hits hard up there.
Overall I’d say 9/10 and would absolutely go back. Happy to answer questions.
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