Costa Rica is well-known for its lavish eco lodges and lovely rustic retreats – to help you decide, we've compiled a list of our favourite luxury hotels in San José & the Central Valley.
Finca Rosa Blanca
Winner of many Responsible Tourism awards and accolades, this is a working farm and coffee plantation with its roots firmly in sustainability. Surrounded by towering trees and exotic flora, the hotel offers spectacular views of volcanoes, cloud forests and coffee plantations. All rooms include Jacuzzi baths and mini bars as well as private verandas overlooking the Central Valley.
Activities include horseback riding, hiking, swimming, rafting, canopy tours, butterfly farms and, of course, an insight into the all-important coffee culture of the Central Highlands. Guests are encouraged to participate in the picking, processing and roasting of Finca Rosa Blanca coffee.
Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation and Inn is the perfect choice for discerning travellers who want to combine luxury with certified sustainability.
Why We Love It
So as not to spoil the peace (or the environment), cars aren't allowed on the premises, unless they're electric.
Hotel Grano de Oro
Located on a quiet street just off Paseo Colón, this is an oasis within the heart of a bustling city. There is a tranquil ambience throughout the hotel and the sensation of escaping the city is heightened thanks to the atrium terrace, fountains and lush tropical planting. There is even a rooftop garden terrace with secluded lounging.
Why We Love It
Converted from a tropical Victorian mansion, this boutique hotel maintains the warmth and comfort of a private home.
Xandari Resort & Spa
On a former coffee plantation just 20 minutes from San José's airport makes Xandari a great spot to relax and unwind after a long flight, before setting off to explore Costa Rica. Each of the resort's individually designed villas has a large terrace with a panoramic view, plus a walled-in terrace for privacy and solitude.
As well as tropical gardens, a large part of the 40-acre property is being restored to its natural state and guests are invited to plant a native tree to assist this effort (also helpful for offsetting the carbon emissions of your flight).
Facilities at Xandari include two swimming pools and a spa offering various treatments with a distinctive Costa Rican flavour. The restaurant serves a healthy menu, with many of the fruits and vegetables grown in Xandari's own organic greenhouse, orchard and gardens. Activities include guided nature walks with a naturalist and a variety of day trips in the local area, including the Poas volcano and tours of a coffee processing plant.
Why We Love It
At an elevation of 1,200m, Xandari enjoys a near-perfect temperature of around 21°C all year.