Embrace a slower pace of life and enjoy a tranquil escape into nature at this beautiful eco-lodge. It’s just an hour and a half from San José, so it’s the ideal place to spend a night or two unwinding at the end of your Costa Rica adventure before flying home. Explore the cloud forest, discover tumbling waterfalls and spot wildlife with a host of nature-based on-site activities, from bird watching, hiking and horse riding to waterfall rappelling and zip lining. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the incredible forest and mountain views at the excellent Las Ventanas Restaurant which offers a farm-to-table dining experience using ingredients from the organic mini-farm and rainbow trout from the Gorrión River. The spacious suites and villas are tucked away in the forest or set by the river and each one is assigned an eco-concierge to guide you on a waterfall hike, help to identify the flora and fauna, and book any excursions or activities. The glass sliding doors maximise the views and blur the lines between inside and outside so you feel even closer to nature and personal touches, such as afternoon hot chocolate and freshly-baked cookies brought to your room and a hot water bottle in your bed, really make you feel at home. On your private viewing deck you can relax in a rocking chair or soak in the outdoor heated whirlpool post-hike and listen to the soothing sounds of the forest while gazing out over the misty mountains or rushing river. The two-bedroom Villas are ideal for families or groups and feature a kitchen and lounge area.
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.
El Silencio Lodge & Spa, Central Highlands
Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation Resort
Xandari Resort & Spa
