I really wanted to love this place. I am a yoga retreat leader, and I came here with my family to check it out as a potential retreat venue, but was truly disappointed. I’ve done a ton of international traveling and am a pretty easy going traveler. We were supposed to stay 5 nights but left after 2, partly because the rooms were way more basic then expected, but mostly because we all felt a really sour attitude from the owner Jacqueline, which was surprising considering some of the other complimentary reviews. From the start she seemed cold and unwelcoming, like she really didn’t want us there. We came with my active 3.5 year old son, whom she knew about ahead of time. She appeared to be glaring at him at our first dinner since he wouldn’t stay in his chair and was exploring the dining room. Granted, he is an especially active child. She came over to tell me that they don’t usually allow children here and we would have to keep a close watch on him. I couldn’t believe she hadn’t mentioned that before! Obviously I wouldn’t have brought him if I’d known children weren’t welcome! On our second evening after dinner I asked her for extra pillows, as each bed came with only one. (By the way, the beds were the least comfortable of all the many places I’ve stayed in CR!) Jacqueline told me the cleaning women had gone home and she wouldn’t be able to help us with that till the next day. I found it hard to understand why the owner of the place couldn’t get us pillows and had to argue with her until she reluctantly agreed to get us more pillows. Clearly she could have the whole time but didn’t want to be be bothered. Some things were nice: -The pool is great. -The food was quite good. (Best part) Other things were really disappointing: -The rooms were very basic and quite a walk from the pool and restaurant, and I’ve paid less in Costa Rica for WAY nicer accommodations with more amenities. It was really warm and humid, but the rooms didn’t have ceiling fans which would have made them much more pleasant. -Barely any WiFi signal, they really should not claim to have WIFI. My dad was working during this trip and had to go to town for wifi. -The beach is farther than I expected down the road, totally deserted, and definitely not one of the prettiest beaches in the area. No shade from palm trees, rough water. There are so many beautiful beaches I’ve visited in Costa Rica, but this one does not make that list. -The venue is far from town and any other services, so apart from the mealtimes, there is no one to ask for a juice or snack. I would have loved service around the pool offering something refreshing to drink. They have what could be a really nice bar downstairs below the restaurant but seem to keep it closed. You would not want to be here without a car to get to town, unless you are truly coming for seclusion. -I found one very short marked trail to the Goddess Tree, which was very nice, but that was it. For being in the middle of the jungle and being called a Garden I expected some pretty trails through the grounds. -The guard on duty at the gate had a large visible gun on her hip at all times which felt intimidating and unnecessary. All in all I’m glad I checked it out before bringing a group here. Definitely NOT coming back!…
They advertise having WiFi but it has not worked for many months so effectively they DO NOT HAVE WIFI. I called to report the problem and it they seem disinterested in solving it. Not helpful. Since the problem has gone on for many months, they should NOT be actively advertising that they have WIFI. It is misleading and false advertising. Avoid!
Highlight: There is a frog pond on site and in the evening you can get up close to the red-eyed tree frogs. Timothy (night reception) knows his critters and he can show you around (tip recommended). We didn’t realize how unique this opportunity was until we stayed at 2 other jungle lodges in Punta Uva and Manzanillo and no one knew of a guide who could take us to see frogs. Pros: Secluded, lush, serene location and grounds. Several breakfast food options. Security at the entrance. Lots of cubbies in the room for convenient storage. Cons: Most restaurants are a 10 min drive away or you can rent bikes offsite and cycle in. Of course, this is only an inconvenience for those without transportation. A cat or 2 in the eating area (a personal pet peeve).
Jacqueline was always very helpful and nice. The rooms and the whole Hotel are lovely decorated, excellent breakfast, very clean, well trained staff. The Hotel is located in the tropical rainforest, gated and very safe absolutely no complaining
The owner Jacqueline was such an incredible host, the food was amazing, the rooms were clean, all of the employees were super friendly. We couldn't have left happier. You can really feel the beautiful energy on this lush and quite land. And the food.. yummm.. everyday it was something different and so healthy and nourishing. They were all so patient with us throughout the entire planning process. We couldn't have been happier! Thank you SO much crew! Namaste <3
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