*Denotes local charge
*Denotes local charge
This delightful hotel has been built around a Victorian mansion that is just a short stroll from the city’s main avenue and within walking distance of attractions such as the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. With its warm colonial decor, tropical plants and fountain-filled courtyards, it feels more like a private residence. The restaurant is regarded as one of the city’s finest and the rooftop Jacuzzi terrace is a great place to relax.
Coffee lovers will be in their element at this award-winning eco hotel that looks like it’s stepped out of the pages of a fairytale and is one of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. Rolling hills, tropical foliage and verdant views over the Central Valley and misty mountains set the scene for a tranquil escape into nature and the aroma of freshly roasted coffee is always in the air. Hand-painted murals inspired by local wildlife and landscapes, leafy plants, fountains and skylights have the effect of bringing the outside in while cosy nooks, hand-crafted furniture and a wood-burning fireplace create a homely feel. Drift off to the sound of the waterfall cascading into the infinity pool after a busy day exploring this beautiful corner of the world. The team can help you plan your dream Costa Rica itinerary, whether you want to explore volcanoes and mountains, search for exotic birds such as the elusive quetzal, zip line through the forest or visit nearby markets. There are a number of packages with culinary, culture, adventure and nature themes. The hotel is committed to sustainability and there’s a twice-daily coffee plantation tour and tasting. Sip your morning coffee while enjoying the views over the valley from the terrace of the excellent El Tigre Vestido restaurant which offers a cooked-to-order breakfast and Latin fusion cuisine with ingredients from the plantation’s organic orchards and gardens. You can continue the coffee theme with an organic coffee body scrub at the intimate spa and enjoy complimentary afternoon coffee and freshly-baked cookies in the dining room. Each of the quirky rooms is uniquely designed and full of character – picture bright murals and mosaics, colourful tapestries and paintings, mixed with antique and modern furniture. They each feature a terrace with enchanting views over the tropical grounds, free Wi-Fi, locally-made organic soaps and, of course, a supply of organic coffee.
With five waterfalls and miles of nature trails to explore, this welcoming boutique resort in the foothills of Poas Volcano offers a peaceful alternative to the city hotels and is just 20 minutes away from San José. Take a stroll through the botanical garden, arrange a waterfall tour or sign up for the daily birdwatching tour – over 140 species live in the forest reserve. Choose a shady spot by one of the three swimming pools and bask in the incredible views – the aptly named sunset pool is the ideal place to sip cocktails as you watch the sun going down. Feel any stresses melt away as you enjoy a pre-treatment soak in your own Jacuzzi in one of the open-air thatched jalapas at the spa. Gaze out over the valley and choose from a range of treatments such as a hot stone massage inspired by Amerindian techniques or a heavenly chocolate wrap. There is a real focus on fresh and delicious cuisine at the terrace restaurant which offers a farm-to-table menu of healthy dishes including local specialities and international cuisine. Enjoy freshly-squeezed orange juice made with fruit from the orchard, and vegetables, herbs and spices grown in the gardens – you can even request a tour of the organic farm and garden with the head gardener. At night, dinners are accompanied stunning views of the valley and beyond to the twinkling lights of San José. Each of the villas is spacious and features bold colours and vivid artwork – you can buy weavings at the resort’s art shop. They each feature a terrace overlooking the valley and are either set on the East Hill which is close to the restaurant or on the West Hill which is near the Spa Village and sunset pool. As the focus is on nature and the stunning landscapes, you won't find any modern distractions such as televisions – but telly addicts can get their fix in the television room located in the main building. Rooms range from Prima Villas to the two-bedroom Star Villa which has two bathrooms, a dining area and full kitchen.
Hotel Grano de Oro, San José
Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation Resort
Xandari Resort & Spa
