Rio Chirripo Lodge and Retreat

Forest and river days at Rio Chirripo

The river sets the pace at Rio Chirripo Lodge and Retreat. Flowing beside the property, it threads through a remote Chirripo Valley setting of forest and views of Mount Chirripo, giving you a reason to slow down before choosing an excursion. Tropical gardens, trails and a yoga platform make the landscape part of the stay; the solar-heated swimming pool and two hot tubs give an unhurried afternoon somewhere to lead.

Into the cloud forest

Hiking and trail running take you onto paths through the cloud forest, while nearby Cloudbridge Reserve and Los Cusingos Bird Sanctuary offer places to pursue highland and forest birds. Hummingbirds, resplendent quetzals, emerald toucanets and fiery-billed aracaris are among the species you may see. Leave time to look and listen rather than making a particular sighting the measure of the day.

ATV outings, horseback riding, whitewater rafting and paragliding add more active regional possibilities. Exploring the local area and its culture gives you another way to spend time beyond the lodge. Then return to the gardens, restaurant and bar, with WiFi available to keep everyday connections close during this retreat away from the busier routes.

A pause at Rio Spa

Rio Spa uses only local, natural, organic products for massages and treatments. The flowing river and birds outside give the setting a character of its own, turning time at the spa into another way to experience the surroundings. Book services at least 24 hours in advance so a treatment can fit around your forest outings.

Meals shaped by the day's ingredients

The included buffet breakfast brings together cooked-to-order eggs, gallo pinto, homemade granola, yogurt, cheeses and more. Fresh, local and organic ingredients shape lunch and dinner, with menus decided daily according to what is available. Meals are typically vegetarian; local chicken or fish can be provided with an advance request. Arrange that preference ahead of time, then enjoy a meal that keeps a connection to the region.

Choose by space, outlook and access

The rooms and suites have individual layouts and outlooks. The 742-square-foot Guanacaste Suite has king and queen beds, forest views, a kitchenette with dining table, balcony, couch and WiFi. Casa Cafe is a 600-square-foot casita with queen and double beds, a kitchenette, dining table, balcony and couch. Both give you more independence around time at the retreat.

The 462-square-foot River Cabin has a queen bed, river and forest views, a balcony, mini-fridge, coffee maker and WiFi. Right beside the river, the 596-square-foot Rio Vista Room has two double beds, a kitchenette, a balcony with table and chairs, views and WiFi, but takes a little hiking to reach. The 350-square-foot Ceibas Rooms sit on the second floor, with balconies, views and either a king bed or two singles. Choose for the setting and access that suit your party, as well as the space inside.