Located in Unitedville, about halfway between Belmopan and San Ignacio, Lower Dover Field Station is a 100-acre tract originally set up to house students and researchers working in the area. It now also provides tourists with a unique opportunity to experience the jungle that used to cover much of the district, but much of which has since been removed to make way for pastureland and other development. The Field Station provides the “complete package” to its guests, but unlike the large high-end resorts in the area, at Lower Dover you aren’t isolated from the surrounding countryside, which both makes day trips easy and keeps prices reasonable.
Lower Dover is bordered on three sides by Big Barton Creek, Little Barton Creek, and the Belize River, so access to fishing and canoeing sites is readily available. Swimming is possible in both the river and the creek, in a series of tranquil pools separated by natural limestone dams. A system of hiking/biking trails leads along the river as well as to an unexcavated Maya site on the grounds. A guided tour of the many medicinal plant species traditionally used by the local Maya is available. The wide variety of native trees also attracts many bird species, including parrots and toucans, as well as iguanas and howler monkeys.
Easy day trips from Lower Dover include the Mountain Pine Ridge (e.g., Caracol Maya site, Rio Frio Cave, Rio On pools), the Belize Zoo, Blue Hole National Park/St. Herman’s Cave, Maya ruins (e.g. Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, El Pilar), and various caves (e.g. Barton Creek Cave, ATM Cave). Tours can be arranged through the owners, but it’s a good idea to plan in advance.
Owners Bill and Madeline Reynolds have worked hard to create high-end accommodation at an affordable price. Lodging is in three raised wooden cabins. All rooms have private bathrooms, rain-water showers, and ceiling fans. There is also an outdoor hot-water shower at the main house. Separate buildings house a cookhouse, a billiards room, ping pong tables, and a library. There is Internet access on site.
Prices are quoted in US dollars. Rooms are half price for students as well as during the low season (June-November). Discounts are available for large groups or extended stays. Single occupancy costs $50; double occupancy, $60; triple occupancy, $70. Tent camping costs $10 per person (no discounts), and there is also space for several hammocks. Prices do not include tax.
Filling meals are served family style, either in the main house or outdoor cookhouse. A continental breakfast is included in the room prices, and other meals can be arranged for $10 per person. Kitchenette rental is available for $15 per day.
Cayo District
Belize
www.lowerdoverbelize.com
501 666 1756
