Fancy a luxury Costa Rican getaway? Here are some of the top hotels around the country

With stretches of secluded beaches, rainforests teeming with life, and some of the world’s best coffee, it’s no wonder Costa Rica is being discovered as one of the best places to travel. Although typically aimed at adventurous backpackers or hippy surfers, there’s a new wave of travelers hitting the shores of this Central American country: luxury travelers. 

This guide aims to explore some of the more luxurious places to stay and relax. Whatever the hotel, from larger chains to smaller boutiques, you can be sure a unique and luxury stay will be waiting for you. 

• The Peace Lodge, La Paz

Although not the most luxurious on the list, it is one of the most unique. It is the very uniqueness that earned The Peace Lodge the title of the Best Hotel in the Caribbean and Central America in 2015. 

This experience rouses your senses, with a plethora of sounds, smells, and feelings within the walls of your own room. Listen to the open fire crackle (the mountains of Costa Rica can get chilly at night), feel the cascade of water on your body as your shower transforms into a waterfall with the press of a button, and see the impressive volcanic jungle views from your balcony. With each room housing at least one hot tub, this is a truly luxurious escape, with a twist. The jungle is literally in your room. 

credit to the owner:  Peace Lodge the title of the Best Hotel in the Caribbean and Central America in 2015.

• The Springs, Arenal

If you’re looking for luxury, you’ve found it at The Springs. Set just outside the quaint town of La Fortuna, The Springs offers spectacular views of the impressive Arenal Volcano. In fact, CNN travel crowned this hotel with one of the best views in the world. But what sets The Springs apart is on the outside. Situated amid 165 acres of verdant forest, geothermal springs, heated by the volcano, flow freely and form lagoons in which you can relax. Enjoy the many activities on offer, from horseback riding to river tubing, then enjoy a cocktail in one of the many naturally heated pools. 

Each large and spacious room is exquisitely decorated in the finest wood and marble, showcasing the very best of Costa Rican produce. Speaking of Costa Rican produce, the world-famous Sanctuary Spa uses tropical botanical ingredients native to the jungles of Costa Rica, as well as mineral-rich volcanic clay.

credit to the owner:  The Springs, Arenal

• Four seasons Costa Rica, Gulf of Papagayo

Travel North to Guanacaste and you will find Four Seasons. One of the drier regions of Costa Rica, Guanacaste, and more specifically Papagayo, offers endless opportunities to explore and relax. Nestled on a hillside, this luxury hotel offers picturesque views of the endless Pacific Ocean, where you can partake in ocean activities or simply relax on the beach.

After a hard day of excursions, watch the sunset from the infinity pool. The colors are truly spectacular. When you’re ready to retire for the night, head back to your nature-inspired room. The rooms have been specifically designed to incorporate the tropical vibes of the region, to bring inner peace and tranquility. There is a big emphasis on wellness at The Four Seasons, including daily yoga and meditation sessions to connect the mind with nature.

credit  to the owner: Four Seasons of Costa Rica, Guanacaste, and more specifically Papagayo

• Los Altos de Eros, Tamarindo

Still, in the province of Guanacaste, we’re taking a break from the big hotels and downsizing. Los Altos de Eros is a small boutique hotel. But what this hotel lacks in size, makes up for in incredible hospitality and location. Each guest is truly treated like such, shrouded with the best treatment. The best part? A one-on-one discussion with the chefs themselves, so they can gauge what type of food you would like during your stay here. 

The rooms are not modern, but this is not to say they aren’t luxurious. Using traditional local wood, the room has a tropical and fresh ambiance. From the rooms, a wealth of hiking trails allows you to appreciate the nature of the area. Spot howler monkeys from the luxury infinity pool. 

credit to the owner: Los Altos de Eros

• Lagarta Lodge, Nosara 

Another boutique designated for sustainable tourism; Lagarta Lodge can be found in the untouched jungles of the Nicoya Peninsula. Enjoy your morning breakfast of local delicacies, overlooking the pristine jungle estuary down below. Gaze across the ocean and search for passing cetaceans from your balcony. But to explore this area in more detail, you can rent out kayaks that will allow you to discover all the nooks and crannies of these bustling ecosystems. 

The rooms are modern and expertly decorated, again using the very best of Costa Rican craftsmanship. From your room, you have private views of the river, jungle, and ocean below. Of course, this wouldn’t be a luxury without relaxing in the on-site spa. A highly skilled team can offer some of the best massages in the area to rejuvenate your body. 

credit to the owner: Lagarta Lodge

• Tulemar, Manuel Antonio 

Tulemar knows how to do luxury. Set amid 33 acres of luxurious gardens, and with access to a private beach in the popular destination of Manuel Antonio, this hotel allows you to enjoy the luxury of your own private villa. Surrounded by nature, wildlife thrives. Dotted around the resort are 4 swimming pools, as well as spa services. Tulemar offers adventure and luxury, relaxation and exploration, and all will exceptional customer service. 

• Nayara Springs, Arenal 

We´re leaving the best until last with Nayara Springs. Undoubtedly one of the best luxury hotels in the WORLD. With an exceptional and dedicated team to cater to all your needs, Nayara goes above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable stay. The food is top class, with the very best of fine dining, incorporating Central American cuisine with European gastronomy to create a fusion of delicate flavors. 

Nayara Springs pride themselves on sustainability, ensuring the property is thriving with vegetation to maintain populations of one of the most iconic residents of Costa Rica, the sloths. Thousands of trees have been planted, aiding in conservation tactics of threatened species. Whilst staying here, you can get up close and personal with these sleepy mammals, in their treetop home. 

Many of the above hotels are leading experts in the field of luxury travel and can cater to your every need. Staying in any one of them is a rewarding experience, creating everlasting memories. Indulge in the activities of the area or simply relax, this is your time. Pura Vida. 

credit to the owner: Nayara Springs Costa Rica