From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel blissfully removed from the bustle of everyday life.
Location
Perched at 2,200 metres in the quiet mountain hamlet of San Gerardo de Dota, the lodge lies within the Savegre River basin, one of Central America’s most pristine ecosystems. It’s a dream for birdwatchers and anyone craving cool, misty mornings and pure, forested tranquillity.
Rooms
You’ll stay in one of 24 wooden cabins, set among flower-filled gardens and mossy trees. They’re simple but cosy, with warm duvets, heated beds, and private porches for taking in the mountain air. We love how peaceful it feels here, and the gentle sounds of the forest lull you to sleep.
Amenities
The highlight is their restaurant, El Quetzal, serving farm‑to‑table fare with trout from their on-site ponds and fresh produce from the garden. There’s a cosy bar for evening drinks, public Wi-Fi at the restaurant lounge, and plenty of shared hammocks tucked into the lush grounds.Guests will find plenty of spots to relax with a book or a warm drink.
Activities
Birdwatching reigns here, with more than 170 species recorded. Guided Quetzal Quest tours, mountain hikes to Paramo ecosystems, canyon waterfalls, and forest walks offer incredible nature immersion. Photography enthusiasts particularly praise the early-morning sightings of the colourful quetzal.
Sustainability
Certified with a 5‑leaf CST rating by Costa Rica’s Tourism Board, it features an Environmental Management System protecting over 90% of its forested land and just 10% development footprint. It has earned multiple Ecological Blue Flag awards for preserving the purity of the Savegre River. Recycling, composting, local food sourcing, biodegradable cleaning products, and banning single-use plastics are part of daily life here.
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Amanda
Costa Rica Expert