There’s a side of Coral Estate that few people truly know. The back of the resort - where the lagoon stretches out between rolling hills, rugged paths and whispering winds. It’s a place I almost want to keep to myself. Because every time I’m there, I feel the same rush of happiness and gratitude that this place exists. So pure, so honest - so un-Curaçaoan, yet so completely Curaçao. A little wild, a little dusty, sometimes dry – but always enchanting.
Dog intuition and walking rituals
The magic always starts indoors, long before I even open the door or reach for a leash. Somehow, my dogs just *know*. Even if I put on my sports socks in another room, they sense it. Within seconds, they’re jumping, running, squealing with excitement - they know exactly what’s about to happen. It’s time for a walk!
But first, the water bottles. Because it wouldn’t be the first time we realize (too late) that the sun is merciless and the late morning heat is simply too much for walking 😉. While I’m still debating whether I’ve packed enough sunscreen, they’re already waiting by the door - ready to go.
My favorite time to walk? Late afternoon. That’s when the heat fades, the light turns soft, and you literally walk *into the coolness*. A dear friend from the resort once told me this was the perfect moment to go. She’s no longer with us, which makes her words even more precious. Every time I head toward the lagoon, I hear her voice and watch the world turn golden in the last rays of sunlight — smiling as I walk into the evening breeze.
The hiking trails of Rif St. Marie
What used to be the Rif St. Marie plantation is now a paradise for walkers, cyclists and runners alike. Over the past years, several trails have been created, thanks to the incredible work of **Stichting Uniek Curaçao** – and that’s something to be grateful for.
At the start of each trail stands a wooden signpost showing routes, distances and names that spark curiosity. Some trails are short and easy, others lead you over hills and through rugged landscapes.
My favorite, and perhaps the most beautiful, is the **Seven Hills Hike**.
Follow the signs, and somewhere around the fourth hill, you suddenly come across a lookout point and a picnic table - right in the middle of nature, as if someone knew you’d want to stop for a moment.
And believe me, you will.
Standing there, with the lagoon spread out below you and the hills all around, you truly feel *on top of the world*. The silence is full, almost tangible. And there are more of these rest stops scattered around — inviting you to sit, breathe and simply take it all in. How wonderful is that! Thank you, Uniek Curaçao!
