The Central highlands

The Central higlands, due both to its altitude and mineral-rich volcanic soil, is the ideal place for coffee-growing. The heartland of Costa Rica, it is home to more than 60 percent of the population.

From San José it is less than 40 miles to Poás volcano, passing through the pleasant town of Alajuela and coffee plantations before climbing up into dwarf cloud forest. When free from clouds, the smoking crater and its turquoise lake are an amazing sight.

Our preferred accommodation

means that the hotel is one of our Dream Destinations.

Aquiares Coffee Estate

Lodge/Hosteria - Aquiares, Turrialba
Casa Esperanza farmhouse on the Aquiares estate dates from the 1900's and has been lovingly maintained. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens, the coffee estate and community of Aquiares. Aquiares is the largest coffee estate in Costa Rica and produces very fine coffee, which guests will of course try.
El Silencio Lodge

Lodge/Hosteria - Bajos del Toro
A small luxury lodge set in a 500 acre private reserve in the cloud forest, just under two hours from San José, with a restaurant and bar overlooking the river and a Spa.
Pacuare Lodge

Lodge/Hosteria - Pacuare
A beautiful lodge on the Pacuare river best reached by white-water raft (grades 2-3). The main building is set above the river with good views, a large dining area (mostly open air), an open kitchen and upstairs bar with comfortable sofas and chairs. The lodge also has a spa.
Poás Volcano Lodge

Lodge/Hosteria - Poás
15 minutes from Poás volcano and national park. Set in lovely gardens and surrounded by farmland, the lodge was originally built by an English family as their home. It has a warm and cosy atmosphere with charming local staff who have lived and worked there for many years. The rustic restaurant serves good home-made food.