The Location
This hotel is located in Las Catalinas, a sort of pocket town in the coastal mountains in Guanacaste. It's a European style city that's still being built so while there is a small market, it's pretty secluded. This feels like old money and the costs of the surrounding properties proves it. The hotel is right in front of the black sand Dante beach and it's very quiet. There are couches, tables, benches, swings, and other tiny lounging areas before settling onto the beach. The waves are perfect for kids and adults looking to body surf but not strong enough for actual surfing.
The Room
The room has hardwood floors, modern finishes, and is VERY spacious. We had a balcony looking over the courtyard and could see both the beach and whatever was going on at the hotel restaurant. There is a speaker out there with nice music but it turns off around 930 PM. It was a quiet time of year so no loud parties or people, really but if you are particularly sensitive, choosing a room not facing the balcony might be better for you. The room had blackout curtains, very comfortable bedding, excellent central air, a TV, desk, open wardrobe (sort of like you'd see at a store displaying clothes) and very basic toiletries. FYI: there was no hair dryer, no iron, no mini fridge, nor alarm clock / blue tooth option.
The Dining
We did...The Location
This hotel is located in Las Catalinas, a sort of pocket town in the coastal mountains in Guanacaste. It's a European style city that's still being built so while there is a small market, it's pretty secluded. This feels like old money and the costs of the surrounding properties proves it. The hotel is right in front of the black sand Dante beach and it's very quiet. There are couches, tables, benches, swings, and other tiny lounging areas before settling onto the beach. The waves are perfect for kids and adults looking to body surf but not strong enough for actual surfing.
The Room
The room has hardwood floors, modern finishes, and is VERY spacious. We had a balcony looking over the courtyard and could see both the beach and whatever was going on at the hotel restaurant. There is a speaker out there with nice music but it turns off around 930 PM. It was a quiet time of year so no loud parties or people, really but if you are particularly sensitive, choosing a room not facing the balcony might be better for you. The room had blackout curtains, very comfortable bedding, excellent central air, a TV, desk, open wardrobe (sort of like you'd see at a store displaying clothes) and very basic toiletries. FYI: there was no hair dryer, no iron, no mini fridge, nor alarm clock / blue tooth option.
The Dining
We did a cooking demo and wine tasting session with Carlos and a chef (can't remember his name but he was Chilean). The food, the wines, and the experience were excellent. Breakfast was included and we ate outside every morning choosing between a limited menu of American style breakfast, Tico style and pancakes. The service was excellent. We also tried several restaurants (like Pots and Bowls and loved it). One night we traversed the steep hill for dinner and sunset views at Los Chameleones - definitely ask for a pick up if you don't want to arrive sweaty and out of breath.
The Experience
The check in and booking experience were top-notch. We spent time at the rooftop pool lounging and taking in the views. There is no bar service up there but that doesn't matter! There is not a gym that I saw but there could be one on sight. There is an outdoor gym just next door which is a really cool concept and possibly you can do drop in HIIT classes or lifting there. Our favorite part was walking through the car-free streets and taking in the architecture and views. This is a (so far) predominantly ex-pat community of affluent Americans and they are fun to talk to about their move to Costa Rica. The staff and personnel were EXCELLENT.More
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