Curator’s statement
The Retreat Costa Rica is very special to me. I have been traveling there yearly since 2016 and there are countless reasons why I return to this adults-only resort year after year. The property itself is welcoming, clean, and relaxing. The views (especially at sunset) are beautiful, the food is out of this world and the staff treats you like a member of their family. You can choose to settle into your room and enjoy the balcony views, hike, indulge in the spa, enjoy twice-daily yoga or relax by the pools. Alternatively, you can use the resort as your home base and plan excursions to the beach, go zip-lining, visit local markets, or explore a coffee plantation.
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If you’re like me, the time it takes to leave home and arrive at your destination is very important. The resort is located just 40 minutes from San José’s international airport (SJO). You can leave home in the morning and be at the resort in time for lunch. It’s best to arrange transportation ahead of time, and I have a wonderful driver I can connect you with who will get you there safely and affordably.
You’ll immediately relax the moment you enter the gates and can enjoy twice-daily yoga (both traditional and restorative), a daily hike, relaxing by one of the pools, or simply enjoying a book with tea or coffee from the self-service bar while swinging on your balcony. All of this is included in your booking cost.
The chefs cook right in front of you in an open-concept kitchen, preparing nourishing meals that are presented as if you were at a Michelin-star restaurant. They use only organic ingredients, most of which are plant-based and sourced directly from their garden. Lunch and dinner offer the option to add a protein if desired. There is no official menu—offerings are based on local availability and what’s growing in their garden and farm. For dinner, you can choose between a full vegetarian, fish, or meat dish. I recommend booking full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) unless you plan to be off-site for excursions on certain days. This way, at check-out, you’ll only pay for any extras, such as snacks, smoothies by the pool, or alcohol.
And don’t miss the Vida Mia Spa, where you can book traditional massages, an authentic Ayurvedic experience guided by an Ayurvedic doctor, a body wrap, and much more.
I’ve visited both during perfect sunny weather and the rainy season, and I’ve always enjoyed my stay. Even during the rainy season, you’ll still get some beautiful sunny mornings.
Each year, I look forward to seeing what new building or renovation has been added to the resort. It’s been a joy watching it grow from the two buildings they started with when I first arrived.
Need to know
I highly recommend The Retreat Costa Rica to anyone looking for a solo trip, a romantic couple’s getaway, a retreat with friends, or a wellness escape with a group. It’s an absolutely gorgeous destination to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul in Costa Rica.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Costa Rica page.
Travel Advisor
Michelle Tuzzolino
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