Costa Rica is a country that truly has it all – from lush mountains to pristine beaches, there is something for everyone. During our recent trip, we spent seven incredible nights exploring this beautiful country, dividing our stay between two luxurious resorts: Nayara Gardens and Andaz Costa Rica.
Our first four nights were spent at Nayara Gardens, located in the heart of the Arenal Volcano National Park. We were blown away by the natural beauty that surrounded us, from the lush greenery to the breathtaking views of the volcano. The villas and suites are spacious and elegantly decorated with a blend of natural materials and local art. Highlights of our villa were the dual outdoor rain showers and the private luxury plunge pool.
The resort offers a range of activities to suit every guest’s interests, including guided hikes in the national park, horseback riding, birdwatching, coffee classes, cooking classes, and yoga. The beautiful spas offer a range of treatments, including massages and facials, using natural and locally sourced ingredients.
On-site restaurants offer delicious local cuisine, with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The wine selection is impressive, and the staff is knowledgeable and attentive. The breakfast buffet is a feast for the senses, offering a range of options to suit every taste.
There were several pools on the property, the spa pool at Nayara Springs was a serene oasis while the pool at Nayara Gardens offers breathtaking views of the volcano and surrounding rainforest. There is even a great swim up pool bar.
The hot springs at Nayara Springs are set amidst lush gardens and offer a tranquil and rejuvenating experience for guests. There are several pools of varying temperatures, ranging from very cool to hot, allowing guests to choose their preferred level of relaxation. The water is rich in minerals and is believed to have healing properties, making it an ideal spot for guests looking to de-stress and unwind. Near the cool pool there is an insta worthy pool bar with rope swings.
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. The 16 bridges suspended between trees offer breathtaking views of the rainforest canopy and its wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and sloths. The bridges range in length from 150 to 510 feet and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife. We opted for a private tour that was arranged by the Nayara Gardens concierge. In my opinion, it was worth the cost since he was very in-tune with the surroundings and helped us spot so many incredible animals that we would have surely missed.
After our time at Nayara Gardens, we spent three nights at Andaz Costa Rica, located on the stunning Papagayo Peninsula. The resort’s architecture and design were inspired by the local culture, and we loved the bold, vibrant colors and natural materials that were used throughout. The infinity pool was a favorite spot of ours, offering incredible views of the ocean and surrounding forests. The Andaz Beach House is just a short ferry ride from the main beach. It offers a gorgeous white sand beach, sweeping views, and an on-site cafe. There are kayaks, paddle boards, and Jet Skis available too.
During our stay, we enjoyed driving around the countryside, taking in all the natural beauty and varying landscapes. From the mountains to the prairies and the beach, there was always something new to discover. One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the town of Playa del Coco, where we experienced the local culture and cuisine.
Overall, our trip to Costa Rica was truly unforgettable. From the luxurious accommodations to the natural beauty that surrounded us, we felt like we experienced just a taste of what this incredible country has to offer. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for those seeking a truly immersive and unforgettable vacation.