Payments made by partners impact the order of prices displayed. Room types may vary.
The listings of booking offers for each property take into account the compensation paid to us by our partners. Prices shown may be for varying room types. Prices displayed are the lowest available, corresponding to the least expensive room type available, as provided from our partners as of the time of the user’s search.
Manicou River is a collection of hand-crafted wooden cottages perched on the mountainside high above Douglas Bay and the Cabrits National Park on the beautiful, pristine island of Dominica. Our view is one of the best on the island, taking in mountains, the Caribbean Sea and the small town of Portsmouth below. We offer a simple, relaxing, nature experience with just the right touches of luxury.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
If you are looking for a personalized, romantic experience, with easy access to the northeast of Dominica, look no further than Manicou River. Kate, Kayola, Yolanda and her team made the experience unforgettable. The eco cabin had the most thoughtful amenities, such as a full kitchen, coffee, spring water, and citronella bug spray. The incredible views from the bed and porch were unforgettable. We spent many hours relaxing and looking out over the water. Kayola deserves special mention for being available at any hour, and for any question or need. She helped us arrange tour guides, gave us beach and restaurants recommendations, and loaned us snorkeling equipment. We didn’t get to meet the owner, Kate, but she was in constant communication with us via email and phone. She even helped us make last-minute changes to our reservation when we decided to bring another person at the last minute, setting up another bed complete with mosquito net. We felt like we had personal concierge comparable to any 5 star resort! Yolanda made the most amazing food. We took advantage of having dinner at the restaurant two nights, and I cannot rave enough about the food. Both breakfast and dinner were mutilpe course meals including homemade desserts such as passionfruit sorbet, and fresh fruit grown on the property. I cannot recommend this place enough!
Read more
Date of stay: April 2022Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kate Leury Nielsen, Owner at Manicou River
Responded 3 May 2022
Hey Becca, Thank you so much for sharing the love! Our team loved having you guys. It means a lot to us that you enjoyed your stay. Come back soon. Team Manicou
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Manicou River was a really cool place to stay. We had a week in Dominica and split our time between the north and south. The views and just the experience of being 'outside' while in our cottage was really nice. In the south we stayed at a more typical resort (Jungle Bay), and it was a nice contrast between the two. If you're coming all the way to Dominica, it's likely for the nature, and this is the best way to experience it. The view at night of the lights from the yachts in Rupert's Bay and Portsmouth was really beautiful. We had a sundowner every evening at the main lodge and then a really tasty three course meal, mmm good.
The staff are excellent, and gave us suggestions on where to eat & stop for snacks. They got up early to make breakfast for us earlier one morning cause we had a birdwatching excursion.
If you have a rental, it's a bit tricky to find the cut-off from the main road to start up the hill. Eventually there are signs but i had use Google satellite view to figure out the initial turn. Once we figured it out it was pretty easy, it's very steep but not too bad.
It does get hot during the day in the cottage, but we were out touristing and just put the blinds down to prevent heat building up. Also, there was a strong breeze later in the afternoon that provides a nice cross-breeze in the cottage, which kept away almost all the bugs. The mosquito net is also good.
The shower is functional and really refreshing after a day out. The wifi in the room was excellent. There was just one plug to charge phones, but it had a 4-USB charger provided (or maybe a previous guest forgot it), so we were good to go.
It's a good base to explore the north end of the island, including around Calibishie, and birdwatching in Syndicate Nature Trail. It's about 90 minutes driving time to Soufriere, longer if you stop along the way as we did to sightsee and have lunch in Mero Beach.
Overall we really enjoyed our stay, and I would definitely recommend Manicou River, especially if you're splitting your time between the north and south.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:There are only 3 cottages so book early!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Manicou River Resort is one of the most serene, organic, pleasant, soothing places we have ever stayed. This was our second trip, and from the moment we stepped foot into our treehouse cottage I felt like I was home again after a long time away. We loved it so much the first time that we brought friends along this trip. We first stayed here pre- Hurricane Maria, so please see my original review Jan. 2017. (It's all of that and more.) I can only add that, here we are, 3 years later and 2 years post-hurricane. It is clear Manicou has worked very hard to bounce back, and has done so with a vengeance. Kate and Patrick and their INCREDIBLE team Kayola, Yolanda, Jeffrey, LeRoy have worked tirelessly and loyally for the past 2 years to bring Manicou back. A new chef creates artistically prepared meals with French influence under a backdrop of the most magnificent views. You will have the entire place to yourself most nights, as Manicou is a very small, hidden gem, boutique "hotel". The treehouse cottages remain glorious. The views are incredible. You are surrounded by nature always. Birds flit about and frogs sing you to sleep in your romantic bed. If you are wondering if you should go, do not hesitate. They are so ready and so able to give you the most relaxing, wonderful, comfortable vacation. We love this place, and we love these people.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2020
Value
Rooms
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Manicou_River, Owner at Manicou River
Responded 31 Jan 2020
We are so delighted to be back - and to have you back! Can't wait for your next visit. Many thanks, Kate, Patrick, Kayola, Yolanda, Jeff and Leroy.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Words can’t quite describe the sense of peace we felt on our stay at Manicou River. The moment we stepped into our open air cottage, all of our cares seemed to be lifted away. Nighttime was nearly magical, listening to all the sounds of nature. The bed and linens with the mosquito net surrounding it, made for the best sleep. The room was equipped with all we needed, we even cooked once with all the fresh produce we picked up on an adventure out. But the rest of the meals we wanted to eat at the restaurant. The view was amazing and the food was so delicious and plentiful. Each of the employees are the sweetest, most kind and caring people, who are there to ensure you are getting the most from your time at Manicou River and Dominica. Any questions or concerns are answered. Manicou River may not be for everyone, as it is a bit rustic, but in the most romantic way. If you require a ton of amenities, then you may be disappointed. But if you want to connect with your loved one in complete peace and with no distraction, and you love nature, then you won’t be disappointed. It truly was on the top of my List of favorite places I’ve ever been. I’ll hold those memories forever.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kate Leury Nielsen, Owner at Manicou River
Responded 12 Feb 2023
Thanks for these lovely words. It means the world to our whole team to know that we have helped to create special memories. It's what motivates us! Hope to see you back soon, Team Manicou x
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tucked away in Portsmouth, Dominica you will find a small, paradisal eco resort called Manicou River. On 21 September 2022, at 10am, Aaron and I departed Guyana, transited through Barbados, and finally arrived at 6:30pm at the Nature Island - Dominica. In pouring rain, we rented a car and excitedly began our journey to find Manicou River. Making some stops along the way, and being careful on the winding, wet roads, we finally arrived at about 8:30pm. Kayola greeted us and we immediately knew she was going to be a great host. Dinner that night was perfection! Yolanda cooked up a three course storm and Aaron and I shared Manicou’s flavoured rum. We were thoroughly satisfied and this was jus the first night! We felt right at home. Kayola then showed us to our cabin which was completely eco-friendly and very cosy (we slept like babies each night here). We could not have asked for a more romantic escape. This was it. Since our cabin was tucked away in a mountain and within the trees, the next morning I shook Aaron awake at exactly 6am, “Look!”. It was the most beautiful, most serene, most utopian view I’ve ever experienced in my life. I am not sure the photos and videos I took can do this view justice, but then again, what camera can truly capture nature? That morning breakfast at Manicou was a spread and it remained that way until 25 September 2022 when we had to say our goodbyes. Oh, and you’ll meet one Miss Cleo (their dog)! She’s shy at first but nothing a piece of chicken cannot solve. After that you’re likely to be knocked over when she runs by to lick you or give you hugs :D Yolanda and Kayola have truly outdone themselves on our entire trip and they’ve helped us to feel right at home. I could not have asked for a better vacation than that experienced at Manicou River.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kate Leury Nielsen, Owner at Manicou River
Responded 1 Nov 2022
Thanks for being such great guests. We can't wait for you guys to come back.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
An absolutely stunning and unique experience. Nestled high up in the hills, you have the most amazing views of the ocean and a sunset every night. The staff is amazing and so helpful. Traveling to and from this location can be tricky, but they provide drivers to get you anywhere you need to go. We highly recommend.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
After very steep but short climb we arrived to a beautiful grounds of Manicue River. Our bungalow was half open, but very private and had amazing view. We were the only ones staying there for the most time and had 2 wonderful ladies cook us breakfast and dinner every day. The meals were delicious and they were able to adjust menus to our taste. That was our highlight of beautiful Dominica island
Read more
Date of stay: April 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Make sure to rent 4x4 car
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kate Leury Nielsen, Owner at Manicou River
Responded 3 May 2022
Thanks Dmitiry. We are delighted that you had such a good time. Please keep spreading the word and telling people what a great place Dominica is. And come back soon! Best wishes, Team Manicou
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Manicou River is a very special place. It's a steep but fun drive to the lodge, with incredibly rewarding views. Absolutely loved the open air rooms. Could sit in the hammock and take in the stunning views forever! Also loved the peace and quiet atmosphere, almost feeling like you had all the hillside to yourself - and yet accessing town activities or nearby beach is quite easy. Food and staff were great. Would absolutely return.
Read more
Date of stay: April 2022
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kate Leury Nielsen, Owner at Manicou River
Responded 3 May 2022
Thanks Morgan! We believe Manicou is a special place so we love it when our guests feel it too. It's been a really tough few years for everyone so it brings us joy that our team to keep on creating great vacation experiences. Please come back soon, love and nature, Team Manicou
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We were blown away by the views from our open fronted cottage. It was more rustic that we thought but beautifully done. We very much enjoyed our stay. The food was local cuisine and very good. We were made to feel very welcome by Yolanda and Jennifer so a big thank you to them. Kate also thank you to you for your understanding as our flight was cancelled and we were delayed a day. There are just three cottages and we were only ones staying.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is a beautiful place in nature with incredible views. We liked that it was ecological with no electricity, rain water fed, natural materials, etc., but the water bed was quite uncomfortable to sleep on and i had to ask for a regular mattress to be put on the floor. The owners at first seemed to be friendly and accommodating but when we left, we received a shocking email from them accusing us of not finalizing our bill and requesting additional charges (even though we paid full amount before coming), of leaving dirty dishes in the kitchen (which we never did) and pointing out that they drove us to town (as we shared a ride one day) and brought me a mattress (because i could not sleep on a water bed) free of charge. We were really shocked by this surprising and inappropriate reaction. It is a nice place but it's a shame that the management is not at all professional. Please be aware of that issue.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2011
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from ManicouRiverResort, Owner at Manicou River
Responded 2 Mar 2011
Manicou River Resort is a very precious part of the Dominican landscape. The resort homes are unique, built from local hard wood trees cleared to make way for the roads through Everton Hall Estate and trees from the North of the Island. As Dominica has a strict conservation plan these are some of the very rare 100% local wood homes built this century. The styles are in keeping with the landscape and blend into their woodland home. Therefore the fire and subsequent burn damage, breakages and mess left during a reckless party at our luxury villa ‘Casse En Bwa La’ with all the guests in this group (included “Stay Away” reviewer) was a shock and has left a sad reminder of careless peoples actions. We have very few “rules” at Manicou River Resort but this party managed to break ALL of them. We stick by our decision to refuse their planned return. Sometimes guests arrive on a late flight and there is no time to shop so we offer help if needed. In this case we did not charge your party for: eggs, milk, butter, bread, jam, coffee, tea, sugar, grapefruits, oranges, mangos, cooking oil, rice, 5 days use of 2 full sets of fins, masks & snorkel, trips to town, collection from the bus and a drop off on a hike 15 miles away, an extra bed in the cottage and subsequently moving into a larger cottage that sleeps 3. Manicou River Resort is not a faceless corporation but a small family business with two very lovely, loyal staff. We are here building the resort, setting the organic gardens, clearing trails and supporting a local youth training program. If you want what we have and are willing to walk amongst people that love Dominica please come and say “hello”. Theresa Hunneybell & Manicou River Resort Team
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi Angela,
Actually NYC is one of the easiest start-points for getting to Dominica. Have you looked at Jet Blue via San Juan or St Lucia or AA via San Jan? Also check out Norwegian Airlines. They have very cheap fairs to the French Islands - Martinique and Guadeloupe. From their you can fly or take a ferry.
Kind regards,
Kate
Hi, thanks for the inquiry.
Our cottages are all open-fronted, which means they have no closed wall on the side facing the view.
So, no, none of them have air conditioning. Just cool mountain breeze.
Midland Park, New Jersey16 contributions4 helpful votes
We, too, visited in December and much of the island seemed to be doing fine. However, along the main road connecting the northern and southern ends of the island on the western side several bridges were washed out, but crews were working constantly and had build detours that kept traffic moving. As the previous reviewer said, the damage seemed to be highly localized, so I'd try to touch base with the property you're planning to stay at to ensure everything is in good shape in that particular region.
Hi,
Keith has covered this answer beautifully. We are working around our guests comfort as much as possible with the construction of the restaurant. Some of the cottages are quieter than others. As Keith mentioned, the noise is mostly limited to hours when guests are out and about exploring. Although we have had some guests spend the day in their cottages and say that the noise did not really bother them. The building will be closed this week so most work from now on will be on the interior of the restaurant and therefore much quieter.
We have a wonderful masseuse who can come and give a massage in your room.
Please let us know if you have any further questions.
Kind regards,
Kate and Patrick
There are more places to choose from in the Portsmouth area.
PRICE RANGE
€296 - €297 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
manicou river eco hotel portsmouth
LOCATION
CaribbeanDominicaSaint John ParishPortsmouth
NUMBER OF ROOMS
2
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
