Monteverde is well known for its misty cloud forests, hills with exceptional views, and a nearly endless list of activities to enjoy. You can easily plan your visit with a comfortable mid-range or luxury hotel, and kimkim has quite a few to recommend.
## Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
Nestled in the heart of Monteverde, Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco offers a delightful mid-range experience, characterized by its gradual expansion and charming ambiance. The very name, “Poco a Poco,” meaning “little by little” in Spanish, reflects the hotel’s organic growth from its humble beginnings of just five rooms in the year 2000. Today, it proudly welcomes guests with 30 inviting and straightforward lodgings, all conveniently located near the bustling downtown area of Santa Elena.
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco stands out as a truly exceptional option within the town center, providing easy access to a plethora of restaurants, quaint cafés, and even a well-stocked grocery store, all within a comfortable walking distance. This prime location is undoubtedly one of the hotel’s most appealing features, allowing guests to effortlessly explore the vibrant surroundings and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Upon first glance, Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco might not immediately reveal its hidden treasures. However, as you venture deeper into its grounds, you’ll discover a tranquil oasis that perfectly captures the essence of Monteverde. Lush tropical gardens, meandering wooden patios, a charming nature path, and inviting outdoor pools create a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
Guests can savor delectable meals at the on-site bar and restaurant, unwind in the open-air pool area, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments that utilize regional botanicals sourced directly from the heart of the Monteverde jungle.
## El Establo Mountain Hotel
For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, consider El Establo Mountain Hotel, a mid-range property that places you on the very edge of the cloud forest. Although larger than many boutique hotels in Monteverde, the expansive hillside grounds create an atmosphere of tranquility and seclusion.
El Establo Mountain Hotel offers a variety of room categories, including standard units, junior suites, family suites, and honeymoon suites. All accommodations boast private terraces or balconies with breathtaking mountain views. While the rooms might feel a bit dated, particularly the bathrooms, they are undeniably spacious, immaculately clean, and offer stunning vistas.
Beyond the rooms, El Establo Mountain Hotel provides ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Guests can unwind at the covered outdoor pool area, pamper themselves with spa treatments, or explore the private forest trails, where they might encounter some of the area’s fascinating wildlife. The spa offers open-air treatments using locally sourced forest products, providing an authentic and unique experience.
When hunger strikes, guests can choose from two on-site restaurants. Las Riendas restaurant offers both buffet and a la carte meals in a large dining area with vaulted ceilings. For a more refined dining experience, Restaurant Laggus is a two-story eatery with open-air balcony seating overlooking the hotel’s serene pond. The restaurant also includes a bar, lounge, and an extensive wine menu.
## Hotel Senda Monteverde
For a luxurious retreat nestled within the cloud forest, look no further than Hotel Senda Monteverde. Despite its secluded location, it remains conveniently situated just a 20-minute walk from downtown Santa Elena. The hotel’s tagline, “Wonder and Wander,” encapsulates the spirit of exploration and discovery that awaits guests.
Hotel Senda Monteverde offers exclusive access to the neighboring Aguti Wildlife Reserve, a haven of hanging bridges, old-growth rainforest, and abundant local wildlife. Guests can traverse the jungle trails, discovering lookout terraces with breathtaking views.
The property features just 24 rooms and suites, spread across cabin-like bungalows nestled on the hilltops. Each accommodation offers a complimentary minibar and a private open-air terrace overlooking the cloud forest. The rooms are bright, clean, and welcoming, with cozy décor and furnishings. Some suites boast views that stretch all the way to the Gulf of Nicoya, in addition to comfortable living rooms.
Most cabins are paired, sharing walls with neighbors, but for ultimate privacy, guests can opt for the Senda Suite, located in a private bungalow.
Hotel Senda Monteverde also offers a yoga studio, private nature trails, El Sapo Restaurant, and a bar and lounge area. El Sapo Restaurant utilizes “hyper-local” ingredients to create Costa Rican-inspired international dishes. Its west-facing dining area with expansive windows makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a mesmerizing sunset.
## Los Pinos Cabañas & Jardines
Los Pinos, a Monteverde staple, has been welcoming guests since 1987, when tourism in the region was just beginning to take root. This established property spans nearly 20 acres of private forest reserve, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is not uncommon to spot local fauna right outside your window or along one of the many private nature trails, a distinct perk considering Monteverde’s reputation as a wildlife viewing destination.
Guests can choose from five distinct types of cabins, ranging from standard studios and one-bedroom suites to spacious three-bedroom family cabins with private terraces. Even the standard options offer ample space and a private kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their own meals.
All guests enjoy complimentary access to the property’s expansive on-site organic garden, where they can harvest fresh ingredients to create culinary masterpieces. While the property’s grounds and cabin concept are the main attractions, it’s important to note that the rooms and furnishings might feel a bit outdated. In fact, not much may have changed since the 1980s! However, this focus on maintaining the original charm aligns perfectly with the lodge’s commitment to sustainability.
Due to the fact that each cabin has its own kitchen, there is no on-site restaurant at Los Pinos. However, guests are within easy walking distance of several eateries, including restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries. The property does offer a few amenities, including an outdoor pool and a kids’ playground.
## Hotel Belmar
Located a bit farther away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Monteverde, Hotel Belmar offers a harmonious blend of luxury and tranquility in an idyllic setting. Three wooden lodges, each housing multiple rooms, perch atop the region’s verdant hills, offering panoramic views of the cloud forest. Guests can easily soak in the scenery from their private balconies.
Over half of the property’s nine acres is dedicated to a protected rainforest, complete with a babbling stream and a cascading waterfall. Guests can explore the grounds by walking along a private trail or relaxing on the sun deck at the property’s tranquil pond.
Hotel Belmar also features yoga classes, massage services, and multiple on-site eateries. Guests can indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at Restaurante Celajes, which sources its ingredients from the property’s organic garden or the Belmar Family Farm. The restaurant is also happy to arrange private dining experiences and picnic meals upon request, and it even offers a dedicated section of its menu for vegan diners. Guests can sip on refreshing drinks at the lounge bar, which features a daily happy hour with tapas, or relax at the taproom and beer garden, juice bar, or tea room.
The rooms at Hotel Belmar range from standard units to chalet rooms and suites, offering varying degrees of space and luxury. All accommodations feature locally handmade furniture and décor, including warm wood paneling, as well as private balconies with hammocks and views of the garden or forest. Upgraded rooms boast additional amenities, such as seating areas, soaking tubs, private Jacuzzis, large windows, and wraparound verandas.
## Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
Despite its proximity to the downtown area, Monteverde Lodge & Gardens exudes a sense of secluded tranquility, nestled within the embrace of the quiet jungle. Just 28 rooms are scattered across the grounds, adjacent to the property’s private cloud forest reserve.
The bright and airy rooms and suites offer stunning garden or forest views, each with a private terrace or balcony, as well as wooden floors, ceiling fans, and plush bedding. Guests can often spot wildlife from their balconies.
Monteverde Lodge & Gardens places a strong emphasis on connecting guests with Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural beauty. Guests can fully immerse themselves in the paradise vibe by relaxing by the pool, exploring the lovely garden area, and appreciating the hotel’s sustainability initiatives. The hotel is part of the Boena Wilderness Lodges Group, a collection of the country’s finest eco-lodges, and it is committed to preserving the land and environment it inhabits.
Guests can savor delectable meals at the lodge’s El Jardín Restaurant, which uses locally sourced ingredients to elevate traditional Costa Rican cuisine. The restaurant also offers a plant-based version of its menu for vegan and vegetarian diners. Indoor and outdoor seating options allow guests to enjoy the fresh air and sounds of the surrounding wildlife or cozy up next to the fire.
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