Peace Lodge is booked up but we would love to stay in that area---what would be the 2nd best choice in that area ??? Hopefully not too far from Peace. TIA

tx3

Anyone ??

Well, no one seems to be replying.

I am certainly not an expert on the area, only been to La Paz Waterfall Gardens the one time and stayed at Peace Lodge, so I am totally unsure of other accomodations.

To find someplace in the same category as Peace Lodge, you will most likely have to choose something closer to SJ.

Are you wanting to actually stay near the La Paz Waterfall Gardens or were you more wanting to stay at Peace Lodge?

You could do a daytrip to La Paz. The waterfall gardens are actually only about an hour from SJ, so a daytrip is another option. If a daytrip is ok, look at Vista del Valle Plantation Inn, very nice place. Some recommend Xanadari (sp).

If it is the location that you are looking for, look at Poas Volcano Lodge - there was a report, that cannot be found, I have searched endlessly. This is closer to Poas, but would also get you close to La Paz.

Hopefully someone else knows of a place. Wish I did!

WELL - I know you hate me now! Clicked on your screen name to see where else you were going - Dang! You are the one that I sent searching for the Poas Volcano Lodge.

I was talking with another Fodorite the other day and she too had read the report.

Anyway, I want forget your screen name ever!

GOOD LUCK!
Have a great trip!

LOL, found it, it wasn't your imagination! Only problem is I'm having trouble figuring out to post the thread! If this doesn't work, try searching for user name Kwoo, posted a report 08/21/2004.

http://www.fodors.com/forums/pgMessa...p;tid=34523012

Tully - Bless You! -

I knew I had read some good things about this place and this is one of them! I really thought that it had been much less time since I read this report. Must of seen when we were planning our last trip. Anyway - THANK YOU SO MUCH!

I was truly emabarassed by sending someone on a wild goose chase. My reputation was on the line here and you saved me!

Now that I have reread it - I can't wait to go!

btw - ezron - scroll down to Day 8 of the report mentioned.

My husband and I spent 10 days in CR for our 10th anniversary Jan. 2004. Peace Lodge was brand new so we couldn't find info on it. We chose Hotel Xandari for our final stop near the airport. It's amazing and I'd go back in a heartbeat. 5 waterfalls on the premises- great hiking to get to them. Food was great, villa was great- lots of artwork and colorful decorations. We went on a great rafting trip (our whole trip was arranged via CR Expeditions but Xandari has lots of day trips that it sets up for you). It also has a spa (didn't try it b/c had already had a 4 handed massage in Manuel Antonio at Makanda by the Sea- another awesome place). FYI, Xandari is not adults only. Not sure about Peace Lodge. Good luck!

Stayed at Xandari the first night of our trip last month and spent the last night at Vista Del Valle....loved them both and I think they are about an hour from La Paz, but not certain. If/when I return to CR, I am going to stay 3 days at Vista Del Valle and take day trips from that location. I loved the Central Valley area and didn't have enough time to check out all the places I wanted to visit. You could easily spend a couple days at either of these hotels just hiking around the grounds...they are beautiful!

Thanks to everyone for their help---I think we're going to try Poas Volcano Lodge so that we can be nearer La Paz.

Well make sure to post a report on your return so they'll be more than 1 review!

Hi,
Notes:
Watefall Gardens is one of the most lovely places in Costa Rica. Inside the gardens there are several huge waterfalls going down the mountain slope and one "La Paz" or "Peace" which is actually outside on the main road. Inside the gardens is a large butterfly exhibit and a hummingbird garden. They are building an artificial lake. You should not miss the bathrooms and take your camera!

The gardens can be seen in about 1 hour 1/2 and you are done. I am not fond of the food as most people post, though one person did enjoy it.

The lodge, which is new is at the top of the mountain with the entrance to the Gardens. Buses of people come every day to go through the gardens which border cloud forest or actually are in the clouds. That means it is cold! If you are lucky, it will be cool and not cold. And, if you have serious arthritis this place is not for you.

There are hundreds of things to do around the central valley. If you can not get into the awesome rooms at La Paz, then try Vista de Valle, Martino Resort or Xandari. All are lovely and with beautiful tropical climate!
A short taxi ride and you are at the gardens, and in a couple of hours you are ready to go. Entry without meals $22.

That's how I see it. Someone asked about bugs and screens.... FEW open the windows at night!

HOP