Beautiful room view at El Establo Hotel, MonteverdeIf you've never been to a cloud forest before, there's something in store for you! The misty air that surrounds lush greenery is a sight to see (and one worth seeing with your own eyes), and the region of Monteverde is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, restaurants, cafes, cultural establishments and more. One of my absolute favorite places to stay here is El Establo Mountain Hotel, a luxurious hotel with unparalleled scenery, two on-site restaurants and enough amenities that you can explore the entire landscape even from up in the trees! My friends at this hotel love Costa Rica, the local culture and wildlife, and it's apparent at their mountain hotel.
Established in 1991, El Establo was founded as a small farm that was transformed into a cozy cattle ranch with 12 small rooms. The half Costa Rican and half Quaker family offers a totally unique experience in the Monteverde cloud forest because not only are you staying on beautiful green farmland, you're taking in every sip of the local lifestyle. You'll also find locals learning new dances, making clothing and more.
Beautiful El Establo Hotel in MonteverdeWhile I was here, I was pampered! You might be wondering how a frog can be pampered, but little guys can enjoy massages, too! If you want to unwind and leave stress behind, you must try the signature green leaf massage. Combining different techniques and styles that target each body part such as a 20-minute feet reflexology, facial, lymphatic drain and more, you'll leave here feeling like an entirely different person. You can also indulge in aromatherapy sessions or a hot stone massage.
7 Days / 6 Nights
Starting at $779 per person
Grab a Bite
From the moment you walk into one of the on-site restaurants, you're greeted with a fragrant smell in the air and a cozy, rustic dining room. Don Richard, who is in charge of both restaurants, offers a variety of different dishes and dining options, including a la carte meals and buffets. Whether you want to grab a quick bite to eat before your next adventure or sit down and relax for your meal, you'll be able to do that here. Made with the freshest ingredients possible, the food here is simply to die for!
Monteverde is the perfect location to explore because of its unique beauty found in few other places. I took advantage of the tree top canopy tour here, which starts at a 150-foot tower and offers 360-degree views. The super friendly, experienced staff while take you through the 16 cables, 1 loose rope, Tarzan swing and rope bridges that will make you feel like a kid again. You'll even be able to spot the Gulf of Nicoya from way up in the air!
If you're looking for something where you can feel safe on solid ground, the night walk is perfect. Most animals are more active at night, so this affords you the opportunity to see a number of different species like raccoons, armadillos, sloths, gray foxes and frogs. You can watch the sunset and prepare to get in touch with nature on a whole new level! This walk is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
Next time you're planning to find a Costa Rica hotel, consider El Establo for your accommodation. Trust me you won't regret it. If you've ever traversed the landscape of Costa Rica's Monteverde Cloud Forest, you know how beautiful it is. What is your favorite part about coming here, and what can you recommend to your fellow travelers?
Amazing sunset in El Establo, Monteverde
Javi the Frog doing canopy at Monteverde
