La Lancha

Overlooking beautiful Lake Peten Itzá and close to the wonders of Tikal, Francis Ford Coppola's latest jungle lodge looks set to be a winner

Francis Ford Coppola clearly loves the wild corners of the earth. After filming Apocalypse Now in the Philippine rainforests, he opened his first lodge, Blancaneaux, in the mist-soaked highlands of Belize, and coastal Turtle Inn soon after. Then came La Lancha, on the shores of one of Guatemala's most stunning lakes, just 90 minutes' drive from the world-famous Maya ruins at Tikal.

Like its brethren, this place is cool, civilised and classy. Within moments of our arrival from dusty Flores, we were sipping cocktails by the 2-tiered pool and gazing out at the turquoise mirror of Lake Peten Itzá. Perched on a hillside and enveloped by a forestful of parakeets and howler monkeys, the lodge unfurls down the hill: open-sided restaurant and bar at the top, pool and sunbathing terrace on the next level down, and 10 charming and comfortable casitas below. Paths lead to the water's edge, where we swam and kayaked across the lake. The ever-efficient staff arrange excellent tours and activities.

Highs

• There's excellent friendly service and a convivial atmosphere
• It's a great base for exploring Tikal and Yaxha
• The refreshing swimming pool has a tinkling waterfall, as well as lake frontage
• The revamped Guatemalan-Italian menu, with Coppola's own wine list
• High-quality tours and activities can be arranged through the front desk

Lows

• It's a remote location, far from any village, which ensures dependency on the hotel; and tours and extras aren't cheap
• The standards aren't quite as high as at the other 2 Coppola resorts (not yet, anyway)
• There are steep stone steps up and down the resort - it's not for the unfit
• The La Lancha monogram on everything from plates to bathrobes may not be to your taste