Fodor's Expert Review El Establo Mountain Hotel
3½ km (2 miles) northwest of Monteverde, Monteverde, Puntarenas, 60109, Costa Rica
The area's largest hotel gets high marks for its huge suites, plush decor, a long list of amenities, and many activities. "The Stable" began life as just that, a stable near the road, now remodeled and apportioned into rooms with comfortable furnishings. Over the years, ever-upward expansion has turned this place into a sprawling operation where hillside buildings house rooms and suites, some with wood-and-stone walls, lofts, balconies, wall-to-wall carpeting, and plush amenities such as hot tubs. On-site activities include tennis, hiking, and ziplining. There's also a spa and an indoor pool and gym complex. The hillside location means you'll have a steep walk or a noisy shuttle ride to your room from the lobby and breakfast restaurant. Rooms in the 300 and 400 buildings have less of a hike without compromising the view. Due to its size, this hotel is popular with tour groups.
PROS
- spacious rooms
- many activities
- great views
CONS
- massive grounds require shuttle van to navigate
- large size means no personalized service
- Wi-Fi doesn't reach all rooms
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Rate Includes: No Meals