Planning the perfect end-of-year getaway can be tough. You want a mix of fun, relaxation, and holiday cheer, but finding a place that offers it all is a challenge. Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic may be your answer.
This luxury resort hosts special events from December 5 to January 2, including Christmas concerts, Santa visits, and festive golf cart contests.
End of the year holidays in Casa de Campo offer a unique blend of tropical paradise and festive spirit. From golfing on world-class courses to enjoying beachside parties, there’s something for everyone.
This article will guide you through the top 10 activities to make your holiday unforgettable. Get ready to discover why Casa de Campo is the ultimate holiday destination.
Key Takeaways
- Casa de Campo offers a mix of holiday activities from December 5 to January 2, including golf events, a Food & Wine Festival, and cultural celebrations.
- The resort’s golf courses, including Teeth of the Dog and Dye Fore, host special tournaments and a $50,000 Hole-in-One competition.
- Visitors can enjoy Christmas markets starting December 4, 2020, featuring local crafts, food, and holiday-themed events.
- Casa de Campo provides family-friendly activities like Toddlers ‘N’ Casa and Bonche 4 Teens programs, as well as romantic escapes for couples.
- The resort’s New Year’s Eve celebration has featured concerts by famous artists like Elton John in past years, offering a mix of local traditions and luxury.
Golf Celebration Events
Casa de Campo hosts exciting golf events to cap off the year. The Golf Celebration on October 25-26, 2023, takes place at the famous Dye Fore and Teeth of the Dog courses. Golfers can test their skills in a thrilling Hole-in-One competition with a $50,000 prize.
These events showcase the resort’s top-notch golf facilities, including the Teeth of the Dog course, which opened in 1971.
The Dye Fore course adds to the golfing experience with its varied terrain across three nines: Chavon, Marina, and Lagos. Guests can enjoy these world-class courses while soaking in the festive atmosphere of the holiday season at Casa de Campo.
Food and Wine Festival
Food lovers, mark your calendars! Casa de Campo Resort & Villas will host its Second Annual Food & Wine Festival from October 10-12, 2024. This gourmet event promises a feast for the senses with renowned chefs and exciting culinary happenings.
Guests can savor cooking demos by celebrity chefs Hubert Keller, Shawn Mcclain, and Scott Conant. The festival also offers wine and spirit tastings for those who enjoy fine drinks.
The Food & Wine Festival coincides with Casa de Campo’s golden jubilee. From October 24-27, 2024, the resort will celebrate 50 years of luxury and hospitality. This dual celebration creates a perfect blend of culinary delights and historic charm.
Visitors can indulge in world-class cuisine while soaking in the resort’s rich heritage at Minitas Beach Club or Altos de Chavón.
Beachside Golden Hour Party
After savoring the Food and Wine Festival, guests can look forward to an exciting beach celebration. Casa de Campo Resort & Villas will host a Beachside Golden Hour Party on October 24, 2024, at Minitas Beach.
This event marks the resort’s 50th anniversary with a bang. Visitors can enjoy live music while watching the sun set over the Caribbean Sea. As night falls, a dazzling fireworks display will light up the sky.
The party will also feature a unique drone show, adding a modern touch to the festivities. This golden hour event promises to be a highlight of the holiday season at Casa de Campo.
Festive Golfing Experiences
As the sun sets on the beach party, golf enthusiasts can tee up for festive experiences. Casa de Campo Resort & Villas boasts three championship golf courses open throughout December.
Golfers can enjoy lush grounds, white-sand beaches, and top-notch facilities during their holiday stay.
The 11th Annual Twosome Championship, set for the week of December 11, 2016, offers a chance to compete on award-winning courses. Players can test their skills against others while soaking in the resort’s holiday spirit.
The combination of world-class golf and festive cheer creates a unique end-of-year celebration for visitors.
Cultural Celebrations
Casa de Campo bursts with cultural festivities during the holidays. The Christmas Opening kicks off the high season with a dazzling light display at Plaza Chavón. Visitors can enjoy merengue music and local crafts at this lively event.
The Cartier Benefit gala supports children’s charities through an exciting auction. Guests can bid on luxury items while contributing to a good cause.
For a taste of local tradition, the Dueños party offers villa owners a grand celebration. This exclusive event showcases Dominican culture through food, music, and dance. The Altos de Chavón amphitheater hosts special holiday concerts featuring both international and local artists.
These performances blend modern and traditional sounds for a unique cultural experience. Next, let’s explore the shopping and market options available during the festive season.
Christmas Shopping and Markets
After exploring cultural celebrations, guests can immerse themselves in the festive spirit with Christmas shopping. Casa de Campo’s markets offer a unique blend of local crafts and holiday cheer.
- Holiday Market Launch: The Christmas markets begin on December 4, 2020, bringing a festive atmosphere to the resort.
- Local Artisan Showcase: Visitors can explore stalls featuring handmade goods from Dominican artisans, perfect for unique gifts.
- Musical Ambiance: The markets are filled with the sounds of merengue and bachata, adding a local flavor to the shopping experience.
- Gift-Giving Opportunities: Shoppers can find presents for loved ones or treat themselves to special holiday indulgences.
- Craft Demonstrations: Artisans often demonstrate their skills live, allowing guests to see how local crafts are made.
- Food and Drink Stalls: Local vendors offer traditional Dominican holiday treats and drinks to enjoy while shopping.
- Festive Decorations: The market area is adorned with lights and holiday decor, creating a magical shopping environment.
- Extended Hours: Markets often stay open late, allowing for evening shopping under the stars.
- Special Events: The markets may host carolers, Santa visits, or other holiday-themed events throughout the season.
- Support for Local Economy: Buying from these markets helps support local artisans and the La Romana community.
Supplementary Activities for an Exciting Holiday
Casa de Campo offers more than just its main attractions. Guests can enjoy a range of extra activities to make their holiday truly special. These options cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a memorable stay for all visitors.
Gourmet Dining Experiences
Casa de Campo offers a feast for the senses with its gourmet dining options. Guests can savor local and international cuisines at top-notch restaurants like Minitas Beach Club, Chilango Taqueria, and La Caña.
Minitas Beach Club serves up delectable dishes from noon to midnight, perfect for a late-night bite. For a more upscale experience, La Caña enforces a dinner dress code, requiring men to wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes.
Food lovers can explore even more flavors at Limoncello, La Enoteca, and Café Marietta. These eateries showcase the resort’s commitment to culinary excellence. Each venue offers a unique atmosphere and menu, ensuring guests find the perfect spot for every meal.
From casual beachside dining to elegant evening affairs, Casa de Campo’s restaurants cater to all tastes and occasions.
Family-Friendly Seasonal Activities
Casa de Campo offers a wealth of family-friendly activities during the holidays. Kids can join age-specific programs like Toddlers ‘N’ Casa and Bonche 4 Teens, ensuring fun for all ages.
Families can enjoy themed dinner nights, beachside barbecues, and movie nights under the stars. These events create lasting memories and bring families closer together.
For active families, Minitas Beach provides exciting water sports. Parents and children can try paddleboarding, kayaking, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. These activities offer a perfect mix of adventure and bonding time.
The resort’s seasonal festivities, including holiday-themed events and local festivals, add an extra layer of joy to family vacations.
Romantic Holiday Escapes
Family fun flows seamlessly into romantic getaways at Casa de Campo. Couples seeking intimate moments will find plenty of options. Special ‘date nights’ offer seafood dining at La Casita with stunning sunset views.
Lovebirds can also enjoy private escapes to secluded beaches by sailing to Catalina or Saona Islands.
For a unique experience, couples can take horseback rides through lush landscapes. These rides include a picnic lunch at Rancho Peligro, adding a touch of romance to the adventure.
Scenic strolls in Altos de Chavon provide another romantic option. Here, couples can enjoy drinks, shop, and take in picturesque views together.
Exclusive Resort Amenities
Casa de Campo boasts a range of top-notch amenities that set it apart from other resorts. Guests can enjoy eight outstanding restaurants, offering diverse culinary experiences. The resort’s marina provides a perfect spot for yacht enthusiasts and water lovers.
Equestrian fans will delight in the Equestrian Center, which features Polo facilities. For those seeking adventure, the 245-acre Shooting Center offers various activities to test your aim and skill.
Minitas Beach stands out as a prime attraction at Casa de Campo. It features two pools for guests to relax and soak up the sun. The beach also houses retail stores, perfect for picking up souvenirs or beach essentials.
Families will appreciate the supervised programs for children, ensuring everyone has a great time. As part of the Affluent Traveler Collection, Casa de Campo offers rooms starting at $225 per night.
This rate includes a complimentary 4-passenger golf cart and free high-speed Internet, adding value to your stay.
How to Navigate Casa de Campo During the Holidays
After exploring the exclusive resort amenities, guests need to know how to make the most of their stay during the festive season. Here’s a guide to help you navigate Casa de Campo during the holidays:
- Book early: Reserve your accommodations and activities in advance, especially for popular events like the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 4, 2020.
- Follow health protocols: Adhere to the Casa Cares program guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay for all guests.
- Plan your itinerary: Check the resort’s event calendar and schedule your activities, including Catholic Masses, mariachi nights, and drive-in movie nights.
- Use the Premier Club: Take advantage of exclusive benefits and services offered to Premier Club members for a more luxurious experience.
- Explore Altos de Chavón: Visit this unique cultural village, home to the Altos de Chavón School of Design, for a taste of local art and history.
- Enjoy golfing experiences: Participate in festive golfing events and tournaments organized during the holiday season.
- Attend the Food and Wine Festival: Savor gourmet dishes and fine wines at this popular holiday event.
- Shop at Christmas markets: Browse local crafts and holiday gifts at the resort’s seasonal markets.
- Utilize resort transportation: Use the resort’s shuttle services or rent a golf cart to easily move around the expansive property.
- Make dining reservations: Book tables at popular restaurants like La Piazzetta in advance to avoid disappointment during peak holiday times.
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Casa de Campo
Casa de Campo offers a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration. Guests can enjoy a mix of local traditions and vibrant cultural elements. The resort’s luxurious accommodations, including private villas and suites, provide an exclusive setting for the festivities.
The Dominican Republic’s ideal weather sets a perfect backdrop for the night’s events.
The New Year’s Eve party at Casa de Campo features unique experiences. In past years, guests have enjoyed concerts by world-famous artists like Elton John. The resort pulls out all the stops to create a memorable night filled with music, dancing, and gourmet food.
Visitors can ring in the New Year in style at this tropical paradise. The next section will explore the best ways to plan your dream vacation at Casa de Campo.
Planning Your Dream Vacation at Casa de Campo
Planning your dream vacation at Casa de Campo requires careful thought and preparation. Here’s a guide to help you create an unforgettable experience at this luxury resort in La Romana, Dominican Republic:
- Choose your travel dates wisely. Consider visiting during the end-of-year holidays for special events and festive atmosphere.
- Book your flights early. Pick from La Romana International Airport, Punta Cana International Airport, or Santo Domingo Las Americas International Airport.
- Select your ideal accommodation. Casa de Campo offers various options across its 7,000-acre property.
- Plan your activities in advance. Golf lovers can enjoy three Pete Dye-designed courses, while others might prefer water sports or horseback riding.
- Make dining reservations. The resort boasts many restaurants, from casual to gourmet, so secure your spots early.
- Schedule spa treatments. Book your relaxation sessions ahead to ensure availability.
- Arrange transportation within the resort. Decide if you’ll need a golf cart or other means to explore the vast property.
- Pack appropriately. Bring suitable attire for your planned activities and the tropical climate.
- Check the resort’s event calendar. Look for special holiday celebrations or cultural events during your stay.
- Review the resort’s safety measures. Casa de Campo offers 24/7 private security and controlled access for guest peace of mind.
- Set a budget for extras. Plan for additional costs like spa treatments, golf fees, or shopping at Altos de Chavon.
- Familiarize yourself with the resort layout. Study a map to make the most of your time and avoid getting lost.
Conclusion
Casa de Campo offers a wealth of holiday activities for every taste. From golf events to cultural celebrations, guests can enjoy a diverse range of experiences. The resort’s special events, like the Food and Wine Festival, create lasting memories.
Families will find plenty of fun with seasonal activities and beachside parties. Couples can indulge in romantic escapes and gourmet dining. The New Year’s Eve celebration caps off the festive season with flair.
Casa de Campo truly shines as a top holiday destination.
FAQs
1. What special holiday events can I expect at Casa de Campo?
Casa de Campo offers a festive Christmas lighting ceremony and visits from Santa Claus. These events create a magical atmosphere for guests during the end-of-year holidays. The resort also provides unique experiences at the Altos de Chavon School of Design, showcasing local artistry and culture.
2. Are there any spa or wellness activities available during the holidays?
Yes, Casa de Campo offers spa credits for guests to enjoy relaxing treatments. The resort’s wellness facilities provide a perfect way to unwind after a year of hard work. Remember to check the privacy policy regarding personal information use when booking these services.
3. What is the cancellation policy for holiday bookings at Casa de Campo?
Casa de Campo typically offers free cancellation options for holiday bookings. However, it’s essential to review the specific terms and conditions of your reservation. The resort aims to provide flexibility to guests, understanding that plans may change during the busy holiday season.
4. How does Casa de Campo honor its history during the holidays?
The resort pays tribute to its founder, Charles Bluhdorn of Gulf + Western, through various holiday activities. Guests can learn about the property’s transformation from a sugar mill to a luxury resort. This historical context adds depth to the holiday experience, connecting visitors to Casa de Campo’s rich past.
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