Hidden Eden

True to its name, Hidden Eden does feel like some secret garden hideaway. The hotel’s secluded location creates a private and serene atmosphere, although it does mean sacrificing the convenience of having shops and restaurants within walking distance.

Most guests are solo travelers and couples, and the hotel appeals to those who like a personal touch. The owners of the hotel also own a landscaping company so it's not surprising the hotel grounds are lush. Blue Adirondack-style chairs are tucked into the garden, which is loaded with plants, trees, and flowers. Plastic patio tables provide an additional place to sit and fish art adorns exterior walls. Guest rooms are no-frills, but care has clearly been taken to make them as welcoming as possible. Rooms are set at the back of the owners’ family home, so the owners are usually around to provide recommendations or even the occasional ride to the beach. Breakfast is served at a communal table, encouraging guests to chat and get to know one another. 

Hidden Eden is tucked away on a back road on the outskirts of central Oranjestad. The closest beach is Drulf Beach, located just under a 20-minute walk away. Eagle Beach can be reached in five minutes by car.

The big Super Food grocery store is just over a mile away, but otherwise dining options in the immediate area are limited. Shops, restaurants, bars, and casinos can be found a five-minute drive away in downtown Oranjestad, or a 10-minute drive away in the busy High Rise hotel district. Queen Beatrix International Airport is less than five miles away. 

Guest rooms at Hidden Eden are quaint and inviting. Bright fabrics and a few pieces of artwork add character to the otherwise bare white walls and austere tile floors. Each room is individually decorated, adding to their already homey ambience. Some of the rooms, like the Blue Agave Corner, have mismatched decor with blue-and-white bedding topped with an ombre orange and red throw blanket. All rooms include wall-mounted flat-screen TVs and personal safes. Storage is provided by metal shelving units, many of which are hidden away by colorful curtains. All rooms include mini-fridges, and most include kitchenettes with sinks and microwaves.

Bathrooms are tidy and simple, with small sinks, minimal counter space, and soap as the only provided toiletry. Towels are provided, and some bathrooms offer cabinet space. Some showers are covered by curtains, while others have partial glass block walls. 

By far, the property’s most stand-out feature are its stunning gardens. The same owners managed the Fantastic Gardens Aruba located next door, and Hidden Eden’s property is almost a continuation of this ornamental nursery. Owner Roy Maduro has more than 30 years of gardening experience and it shows. Plant life blossoms on almost every inch of the grounds: lining brick pathways, artfully creeping up the sides of buildings, and hanging down from trellises.

There are a few patio tables and Adirondack chairs found throughout the gardens, as well as a hot tub that looked out-of-commission during our visit. The garden centers on an attractive patio with a long wooden table, where a Caribbean breakfast is served each morning. Free self-parking is provided in front of the hotel, and free Wi-Fi is offered throughout. Mountain bikes and snorkeling gear are available for rent.