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To visit Costa Rica is to find yourself surrounded by panoramic volcanic views, lush rainforests, hot springs, and incredible biodiversity. In recent years, the Costa Rica experience has seen sustainable tourism on the rise, bringing innovative sustainable solutions to luxury lodges, resorts, and retreats from coast to coast. The infinite natural wonders of this Central American treasure make for a dream vacation for conscious explorers looking to slow down and connect with nature.
At any of these stunning properties, unforgettable memories will be forged as you look up through the leaves of rainforest canopies, breathe in the tropical air, and surrender to the sounds of the wildlife around you. Pura Vida, or ‘pure life,’ is the way of life here, which means embracing wholesome fresh, authentic cuisine made from locally harvested organic farms.
What better way to get in touch with Pachamama – Mother Earth – than a stay at one of the best eco-resorts in the world?
Hacienda AltaGracia
Nestled within the Talamanca Mountains lies 180 acres of land belonging to the Hacienda AltaGracia. The resort is an oasis of relaxation for those looking to recharge and a base for thrill seekers seeking adventure. The property was ranked as one of the Top 50 Resorts in the World by Condé Nast Traveler 2021. Hacienda AltaGracia features a coffee farm, organic gardens, equine stables, and a wellbeing center; this one-of-a-kind Costa Rica experience offers the stay of a lifetime.
The Hacienda can arrange river rafting or hiking excursions for the more active travelers, while those looking for R&R can head to the world-renowned spa. The spa is centered around holistic principles. It features eight treatment rooms, a thermal suite, and a hydrotherapy tub. They also offer classes in their healing garden if you’re craving some meditative movement. To make the most of your time here, ask the resort to build you a custom itinerary.
Every activity and feature of this property has been designed with sustainability in mind. This property is close to one of the world’s five Blue Zones, so eating healthy, organic food is a top priority. Dining at Grano, their primary restaurant, is an authentic and exciting experience where you’ll taste Costa Rican culinary specialties and savor unique techniques from pickling to fermenting and dehydrating ingredients. If you are a fan of coffee, there is a lot to learn at its coffee farm about the preparation and roasting process.
Kura
Surrender to the sounds of the Uvita rainforest from within one of eight adult-only open-air suites at Kura. Conceptualized as a collaboration between Costan Rican architect Martin Wells and biologist Alejandra Umaña, the property is designed with a tropical minimalist style. With clean lines, gardens, and panoramic views of the jungle and beaches, there is beauty here as far as the eye can see. In the native language of the Boruca people, Kura means ‘jaguar,’ and there’s nothing more fitting to describe this incredibly sleek and elegant Costa Rica experience.
When it comes to sustainability, the property excels in every aspect. Kura has even been awarded the prestigious national Ecological Blue Flag award for their efforts. In addition to having an on-site Japanese Takakura composting system that turns all of their organic waste into fertilizer, Kura is involved in numerous community projects to teach locals about the importance of preserving their precious ecosystem. When it comes to dining, they serve only organic, responsibly sourced ingredients, including greens grown at the hotel.
Origins
Life within the high valley jungles of Costa Rica doesn’t get much more serene than a stay at Origins. This luxury resort uses innovative eco-friendly practices to produce a five-star guest experience with six lodges and a three-bedroom villa, all of which have built-in bioclimatic regulators to keep the adobe walls cool and comfortable year-round.
When it comes to dining, guests are in for a treat as all the ingredients served at the restaurant are locally grown in an on-site organic garden and harvested for your plate. Origins prides itself on experimentation with wild ingredients not usually seen, creating truly exceptional flavors and textures. At the helm of their restaurant is Chef Jean-Luc L’Hourre, a Michelin-star French chef who artfully designs culinary experiences for hotel guests.
As you take in the tranquil setting from your terrace jacuzzi in the heart of the jungle, you’ll discover the delights of this unparalleled Costa Rica experience.
As one of the most biologically diverse countries on Earth, Costa Rica has a wealth of natural resources to provide an incredibly organic, eco-friendly travel experience. Whether you are looking to unwind to the sounds of nature on your doorstep or answer the call of the wild through adventurous pursuits like hiking, ziplining, and horseback riding, you’ll find your Pura Vida at any one of these Costa Rica eco-resorts.
