The hype
Reviewers universally praise the 'heaven on earth' views and the transformative spa, but some find the price of excursions and transport steep.
The Retreat Costa Rica - Wellness Resort & Spa
$500-700/ night
Book this if You want to detox in a crystal-quartz mountain sanctuary where 'wellness' means anti-inflammatory food, no TVs, and silence so deep you can hear a peacock screech.
Why People Love It
- Vida Mia Spa's Ayurvedic treatments and crystal healing therapies
- Anti-inflammatory, farm-to-table cuisine that actually tastes gourmet
- Stunning views of the Nicoya Peninsula and Pacific Ocean from high elevation
Quick Take: A serious wellness boot camp disguised as a luxury hotel—come here to heal, not to party.
Reviewed by @mariongrant8386672: I stayed at this wellness haven in Costa Rica and it was the reset I didn't know I needed. The property is full of crystals and waterfalls, and I loved just wandering the trails. Finding the swings in the forest was a highlight—pure magic.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'peacock' resident is beautiful but can be a noisy nightmare at 4 AM if he decides to camp out on your balcony.
- You are serious about detox, yoga, and clean eating
- You want a vacation where you lose weight rather than gain it
- You appreciate silence and being disconnected from the news cycle
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable daily service with turndown; guests consistently rate it 10/10.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless, modern bathrooms. Some feature glass-walled tubs with views.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition, though the high humidity requires constant upkeep which they seem to manage well.
- Linens & towels: High-quality, organic cotton linens and robes.
- Odors & scents: Smells like lemongrass and fresh mountain air; no musty odors reported.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Resident peacocks (can be loud at night)
- High winds rattling windows during storm season
Before you book
Good to know
- Alcohol is available (organic wines/cocktails) but corkage is $30 if you bring your own.
- The road up is paved but steep and winding; arrange a transfer if you're nervous about driving.
- WhatsApp is the primary mode of communication with the front desk.
What to pack
- Yoga clothes (you will live in them)
- A good book (remember, no TV)
- Light jacket or wrap (it gets cool at night due to elevation)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Mandarina (Premium Room) for incredible views and a hanging chair on the balcony
- Guanabana or Guapinol (Deluxe Rooms) for a private, 'tucked away' feel
- Santosha Luxury Lofts for floor-to-ceiling windows and proximity to the gym/spa
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms directly near the main kitchen if you are sensitive to early morning prep noise
- Lower-level garden rooms if you want the expansive ocean views
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am looking for a quiet sanctuary with a view. If possible, please assign a room on the upper level away from the main walkway, like Mandarina, to avoid foot traffic and maximize the mountain vista.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the food strictly vegan?
No, but it is anti-inflammatory, dairy-free, and grain-free. You can get chicken and fish, but don't expect heavy meats or processed carbs.
Is there a gym?
Yes, the Santosha Wellness Club is a state-of-the-art gym open 6 AM - 10 PM with great views.
Can I bring my kids?
No, the resort is strictly 16+ to maintain the quiet atmosphere.
Is there air conditioning?
Yes, all rooms have A/C, though the mountain breeze often makes it unnecessary.
How far is it from the airport?
About 45 minutes from San Jose (SJO) airport, depending on traffic.
Is there a resort fee?
No specific daily resort fee found, but taxes and service charges are significant on the final bill.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book spa treatments *before* you arrive; they sell out fast.
- ✨
The 'Crystal Room' is a unique spot for meditation that many guests miss.
- ✨
Ask for the 'Tarzan and Jane' Gin & Tonic at the bar—it's a signature.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'peacock alarm clock' is real—bring earplugs just in case.
💡You might actually go through withdrawal from sugar/caffeine/screens for the first 24 hours.
💡The 'thin walls' mentioned in reviews are more about the open-air design letting nature sounds in than hearing neighbors.
💡The drive up the mountain is an adventure in itself—steep and winding.
💡You can hike to a gold mine waterfall directly from the property.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Retreat Costa Rica - Wellness Resort & Spa is located and what's nearby.