About Us
The Cuffie River Nature Retreat - Tobago's leading bird watching and nature retreat
Tobago, the gentle and tranquil half of the nation state of Trinidad and Tobago, the most southerly islands of the Caribbean island chain, exudes a lush, relaxed gracefulness throughout its entire 16-mile length and 7-mile width. Tobago, for several years voted the world's leading Eco-tourism Destination, gently charms her callers, with the finest opportunities for eco-tourism: a pristine rain forest - the oldest protected in the western hemisphere: ... exotic birding ... mountainous grandeur ...unexpected waterfalls ...beautiful exotic birds ...protected marine parks harbouring fascinating worlds of underwater coral ...white sand beaches ... warm-hearted and generous people and the Cuffie River Nature Retreat - a rainforest retreat, mere steps away from the finest rainforest birding adventure tours.
On the edge of Tobago's rainforest, surrounded by wild heliconias, bamboo groves and ancient forest trees and cradled in the remote and idyllic Runnemede valley lies our eco-lodge, the Cuffie River Nature Retreat - a secluded rainforest retreat offering the ultimate in tropical rainforest birding and rainforest adventure tours. The retreat is a remote yet modern, upmarket facility set against a backdrop of mountains and encircled by cool, refreshing mountain streams and pools. This is nature tourism at its most subtle yet refined - allowing you a complete rainforest experience while enjoying the creature comforts of home.
The concept of this eco-tourism rerteat was born out of the rural development experience of owner/manager, Regina Dumas. Her work in this field led her throughout the Caribbean where issues affecting rural people and their livelihoods were all too evident. For Regina, the human, environmental and infrastructural factors were found to be the most significant to the well-being of the rural sector and thus played a central role in the envisioning and development of this project. The result? A beautiful blending of attractive architecture set in the midst of idyllic rainforest and with warm and welcoming hospitality awaiting every guest who enters the eco-lodge.
A Stunning Location
Cuffie River Nature Retreat, a romantic and secluded tropical rainforest and exotic birding lodge located at the edge of Tobago's main ridge - the oldest protected tropical rainforest in the western hemisphere.
For local birdwatchers, wildlife photographers and families just wanting to “get away from it all”, we offer all you could ask for in a setting that is “clean, green, safe and serene” – to use the caption by which Tobago is marketed internationally.
Relax and Enjoy
At Cuffie River you experience a veritable retreat from the world outside, a paradise which most believe no longer exists but is transformed into reality here. Interact with the birds, walk peacefully in the surrounding woods and enjoy a silence and a grandeur that only a tropical rainforest can offer – an experience like none other.
Bask too in the pleasure of bathing in a saltwater pool with diving facilities or play a game of table tennis in our annex facility, open on all sides so that the beauty of nature and interaction with the birdlife is not lost!
Charming Rooms
Our eco-retreat offers 10 spacious and well-furnished guest rooms. Whatever your interest and pursuit, those looking for total relaxation in a natural environment are sure to enjoy the Cuffie River Nature Retreat.
Holiday Activities
We offer opportunities for tours led by knowledgeable guides- birding, rainforest, wetlands, waterfalls, beaches, sunset and fishing/snorkelling trips. Our outings showcase this exceptional island of Tobago, filled not merely with beauty but with an unusual history as well.
At our location you can enjoy riverside spa treatments and massages – “riverside” because you are literally located alongside the Cuffie River whose sight and soothing sounds will add a memorable backdrop to this unusual experience
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Multi-Award Winning
2017: Caribbean Tourism Organisation: Sustainable Accommodation Award
2016: TripAdvisor: Certificate of Excellence
2011: Tobago HOuse of Assembly: Sustainable Property of the Year
2005: Republic Bank: Award for Excellence in Environmental Management
2004: Caribbean Travel and Life Best of the Caribbean Awards: Best Eco Retreat
2003: Tobago House of Assembly (THA): Small Property of the Year
2002: Tobago House of Assembly (THA): Employee of the Year won by Mr. Desmond Wright
2000: Republic Bank: Best Business Award in Tourism and Hospitality
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Swimming pool
Our swimming pool utilises environmentally-friendly purification, using salt instead of chlorine. The elevated location offers stunning views over the surrounding landscape. A ramp provides access to physically challenged guests. An ideal place to cool off with a freshly mixed rum punch or fruit drink after a walk in the rainforest.
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Restaurant
Our menus are crafted from local raw materials and cooking expertise and creativity second to none. Breakfasts comprise fresh juices, fresh fruit and cereal plus your own menu selection. Dinner menus are "table d’hôte" and reflect the unique, multi-ethnic nature of Trinidad and Tobago. Delicious light lunches are also available.