The Mediterranean-inspired marina at Casa de Campo Resort and Villas in La Romana has garnered the nickname “Riviera of the Caribbean” with good reason.
The expansive marina is dotted by boutiques, galleries, restaurants and a Yacht Club that regularly draws seafarers and sport fishermen from around the world. Groups can charter a boat for some of the best fishing around here. Beyond this welcoming point is the artsy Altos de Chavon village, replica of a 16th century Mediterranean village.
The village’s cobblestone streets give way to a vast repository of art experiences for groups, including hands-on workshops with local artists—from pottery to weaving to silk screening—and additional instruction on photography, fine art, fashion, film and more at the Altos de Chavon School of Design. A Grecian-style amphitheater for up to 5,000 is certainly big enough for major conventions and conferences, as well as an A-list performer like Jennifer Lopez. Coincidentally, she’s performing here this April. Groups can book a kayak trip down the Chavon River for another look at Altos de Chavon (and quite possibly herds of water buffalo), as well as the natural beauty of the Dominican countryside.
Connecting groups with nature across the property’s 7,000 acres is top of mind for the Casa team. The Pete Dye-designed masterpiece and top-ranking Caribbean golf course, Teeth of the Dog, is one of the most sought-after incentive experiences, according to Jason Kycek, senior VP of sales and marketing. “Horseback riding through the Altos de Chavon river valley” is another. The on-site equestrian center also offers English and Western riding lessons and polo. Groups also blow off steam at the sporting clay range, which offers over 200 stations, as well as trap and skeet shooting with clays at different heights and speeds.
Kycek says wellness groups should try sunrise yoga on the beach. “We also partner with world-renowned physical therapy advocate and founder of Pinecrest Physical Therapy, Ron Yacoub. Having a therapist right on property allows us to provide an educational component to health and wellness, as well as individualized physical therapy sessions for attendees.”