Hotel Montana Monteverde

Cloud forest days at Montana Monteverde

The cloud forest view is the invitation at Hotel Montana Monteverde. Set in the western hills of the Cordillera Tilaran, this comfortable midrange hotel looks across a rich rainforest landscape, giving you a place to enjoy the highlands even when you are back from an excursion. Begin with the included breakfast and leave time later for a drink with the hills in view.

Monteverde's higher elevation brings a cooler climate than much of Costa Rica. Giant trees, delicate ferns, vines and orchids fill the forest, with clouds lingering among the canopy. That layered landscape rewards a slower look as well as an adventure through the treetops. It is part of the atmosphere of staying here, rather than simply a destination to check off tomorrow.

Choose the day you want

A guided birdwatching tour slows the pace for a closer look at the forest's inhabitants; a canopy zipline takes the day in a very different direction. Trails, hanging bridges and waterfall outings offer ways to explore on foot. Horseback rides and ATV trips bring the countryside into your plans, while the Santamarias Night Walk reveals another side of the forest after dark.

The hotel is a convenient base for local tours, attractions and forest reserves, with kind staff adding a welcoming touch. You can set out for an active day and still plan a quieter return, keeping part of the afternoon free for the outlook that drew you to the hotel.

Breakfast here, an evening in Santa Elena

Complimentary breakfast gets the day started without an extra stop. Lunch and dinner are available to purchase at the restaurant, which serves Costa Rican and international dishes. A cold cocktail at the bar comes with a cloud forest view, making it an easy place to enjoy being back after time outdoors.

A nearby bakery offers another small pleasure, and a 10–15-minute stroll brings you to the center of Santa Elena for local cuisine. Laundry service is available at an additional cost. WiFi is provided in the lobby and may work in some rooms, so plan to connect in the common area rather than depend on a room connection.

A simple highland room

Rooms have private bathrooms with hot-water showers, closets, desks and safes. Standard and Superior options differ in their additional comforts, so compare them around how you want to settle in. There is no air conditioning. The cooler highland setting is part of the choice here, alongside the forest view, included breakfast and convenient base for exploring Monteverde.