Fodor's Expert Review La Lechería
Long before tourists flocked up here, dairy farming was the foundation of Monteverde's economy. Quakers still deliver dairy to what is locally referred to as the Cheese Factory, or La Lechería. The factory store sells local cheeses and ice cream. Stop in for a cone. It's open Monday through Saturday 7:30 to 5 and Sunday 8 to 4. If you have more time, take a two-hour tour of the operation Monday through Saturday at 9 or 2. Tours are $12 and wind up with a cheese-sampling session. Reserve in advance. These folks also operate an ice-cream shop across from the Tree House restaurant on the main street in Santa Elena.
Quick Facts
½ km (¼ mile) south of CASEM, halfway between Santa Elena and Monteverde Reserve
Monteverde,
Puntarenas
60109,
Costa Rica
-2645–7090-tours