Lillium

Planning on taking a cruise beginning in Costa Rica in Feb of 2016. We would ideally like to stay prior to departure approx. four/five days in one fantastic hotel. We are not looking to zip line, white water rafting, etc. Just beautiful views, lovely grounds, interesting excursions (flowers, wildlife, scenery). I cannot seem to zero in on the one place that fits. Any suggestions? Prefer upscale, but...

Iahawk

The Springs resort or Nayara springs fits the bill. Great views, lovely grounds, good food, outdoor spa, etc.

Lillium

Thank you lahawk, yes have put them on our list, also neighboring Nayara gardens. Does being in a rain forest mean constant overcast rainy days?

volcanogirl

We loved staying at the Springs Resort and Spa - they have a gorgeous river that runs through the base of their property, excellent service there, good restaurants, and posh comfy rooms. Also liked staying at Nayara. The rainy season is roughly Mayish to Decemberish, but it can rain anytime. We've had some beautiful sunny days in rainy season, but usually there's some rain each day. We've never had anything cancelled due to rain other than ziplining which was dangerous due to lightning.

volcanogirl

Take a look at Tulemar Bungalows in Manuel Antonio as well; they have lots of wildlife like monkeys and sloths on site; they have beautiful views, their own beach, and lots of nearby restaurants that you can walk to. There's a great botanical tour at Villa Vanilla. You can also go sailing, do a guided tour of the park, and a Damas mangrove tour.

Lillium

Tulemar initially looked interesting, but reviews go from great to poor. I think they are individually owned, so perhaps that is the reason. Any comments regarding Gaia?

volcanogirl

Tulemar is the #1 property listed on tripadvisor right now. Where did you see poor reviews? That surprises me. We can personally vouch for Mot Mot and Casa Panorama - fantastic. Gaia also gets good reviews and Arena del Mar as well.

Patty

We've stayed at both Upper Villa Mot Mot at Tulemar and at Gaia. Tulemar is a complex of condos and private homes so they run the gamat from fairly simple bungalows to architecturally spectacular houses and everything in between. Gaia is a resort so everything has a consistent feel. The public areas at Gaia are more luxurious and they have an excellent restaurant. It's not on the beach and they have some trails but ask that you go on guided hikes. We personally loved Mot Mot, the more extensive Tulemar property and were able to walk to restaurants for dinner. Staying at Tulemar is more like staying at a vacation rental with some perks thrown in (shuttle, concierge service, etc) whereas Gaia is more of a full service resort.