If you’re planning a Costa Rican adventure, make Peace Lodge your first stop. Located just an hour from San José International Airport, this boutique hotel offers a serene introduction to the country’s natural beauty.
Evening Arrival: Soaking in the Views
We arrived at Peace Lodge in the late afternoon, greeted by misty mountain air and the soothing sounds of the rainforest. Our Deluxe Guest Room was a sanctuary – spacious, beautifully designed, and immersed in nature. The room featured a king-size bed, a grand river stone fireplace, and a balcony with a Jacuzzi and hammock, perfect for unwinding after our flight.
The highlight was the massive bathroom, a true oasis for my plant-obsessed husband. It was more of a greenhouse than a bathroom, with lush indoor landscaping, a skylight, and a waterfall fountain. The open garden shower and enclosed shower added to the unique experience.
We were traveling with our friends, and the only thing better than our connecting deluxe rooms was the kids’ reactions to them!
Heated Pools and Dining Delights
After settling in, we headed to the grotto-style swimming pool. The warm water was incredibly inviting and we enjoyed relaxing as we watched storms in the distance.
Later, we dined at Vista Poás Restaurant, where we savored one of our best meals in Costa Rica—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.
Morning Exploration: Wildlife Park and Waterfall Hike
Jet lag had us up early, so we took advantage of our exclusive access to the adjacent La Paz Waterfall Gardens before the public arrived. The park was ours alone, allowing us to observe sloths, monkeys, toucans, and even jungle cats up close. The highlight was the Casita Típica, a replica of a traditional Costa Rican home from 100 years ago, where we encountered goats and massive bulls.
We then hiked the trail to the five stunning waterfalls of La Paz. Each waterfall was more breathtaking than the last, surrounded by vibrant rainforest and diverse wildlife.
Breakfast followed by Fishing Fun
After our hike, we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at Vista Poás, overlooking the rainforest. The cool mountain air and the sounds of nature made for a perfect start to the day.
Thanks to our late checkout, we had time to visit the trout pond. The boys had a blast fishing, adding a fun and relaxing end to our stay.
Final Thoughts
Our time at Peace Lodge was the perfect introduction to Costa Rica. The combination of luxury, nature, and cultural immersion made it a memorable experience. The only regret? Not booking an extra night to fully soak in the tranquility.
Why Book Your Costa Rica Vacation With Us?
We work closely with Peace Lodge and can offer personal recommendations from our own stay. When you book through Explore More Travel Co., you get more than a reservation—you get a thoughtfully planned experience. We coordinate your entire trip through Costa Rica with the help of our trusted on-the-ground partners to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. From transfers to tours to restaurant suggestions, we handle every detail so you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure.
