Santa Barbara, Heredia

When it comes to discovering the real Costa Rica, there's no better way to see the country than by exploring the quaint mountain towns off the beaten path. The locals are friendly and hospitable, but amenities aimed at tourists are scarce. These charming towns and villages offer visitors a glimpse at the laid back lifestyle for which Ticos are famous. If you're taking a trip to the province of Heredia, a stop in Santa Barbara is well worth it.

Best Hotels in Santa Barbara
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Peace and Quiet, Costa Rican style

Santa Barbara is located around four miles northeast of the city of Alajuela and six miles (10 km) northwest of the city of Heredia. Many of the locals make their living from agriculture, including coffee plantations and herb farms. There are also several Spanish language schools in the area. Life here is peaceful, as most tourists tend to flock to the more populous cities such as the capital of San Jose. However, if you're looking for a relaxing way to enjoy everything that Costa Rica has to offer, Santa Barbara won't disappoint.

Lay of the Land

For the ultimate in rural luxury, you won't want to miss a stop at the Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation. This lavish resort is one of the area's best-kept secrets, and offers you the chance to relax amid some of Heredia's most spectacular scenery while indulging in the many amenities on offer.

Finca Rosa is a working coffee plantation and eco-resort rolled into one. During your stay here, you can enjoy the incredible views of the rolling hillsides and valleys of Heredia, before learning about how important coffee production is to rural Costa Rican towns like Santa Barbara. The facility boasts luxurious spa treatments, a restaurant with an extensive menu of organic foods, and authentic Spanish villa-style decor.

Going on a Walkabout

Of course, no trip to Costa Rica would be complete without experiencing the lush natural beauty of the countryside. From Santa Barbara, you can take romantic horseback rides through the surrounding hills, go hiking along the area's scenic trails, and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls that can be found in the nearby jungles. If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a day trip to nearby Braulio Carrillo National Park, home of the mighty Barva Volcano.

For a glimpse of Costa Rican life, Heredia is hard to beat. While you're traveling through the area, why not stop in Santa Barbara and enjoy everything that this tropical paradise has to offer?

Eco Experience: A Costa Rican Adventure
11 Days / 10 Nights
Starting at $3,874 per person
Guanacaste Escape Adventure Tour
7 Days / 6 Nights
Starting at $932 per person

Where to Stay near Santa Barbara

Featured Hotel
La Rosa Del Paseo
Starting at $59 / night
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Hotel Grano de Oro
Starting at $169 / night
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City Express San José
Starting at $77 / night
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Quality Hotel Real San Jose
Starting at $73 / night
Featured Transportation
Aero Caribe Air Charter
Starting at $450 / hour
Featured Hotel
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum
Starting at $120 / night
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Hotel Luisiana
Starting at $44 / night

Things to Do near Santa Barbara

Featured Activity
Vip City Bus Cultural Tour
Starting at $86.1 / person
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Cafe Britt Coffee Tour
Starting at $175 for 2 people (min 2 people)
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Intercultura Language School & Cultural Center
Starting at $35 /lesson