Costa Rica: Monteverde Cloud Forest
On today’s Costa Rica travel guide, we’re headed up 4,662 feet to reach Monteverde’s Cloud Forest Reserve. Our drive up from the beaches of Manuel Antonio to Monteverde was, in a word, breathtaking. There were some rough patches to drive through but overall I found that the roads had really improved since I last visited, years ago. We first stopped in Santa Elena to pick up some general items that we would want with us at the hotel. We planned to enjoy sightseeing and the offerings of the Hotel Belmar for the remainder of our stay.
Hotel Belmar
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Monteverde, Costa Rica, the Hotel Belmar emerges as a tranquil sanctuary harmoniously integrated with its natural surroundings. Perched atop the verdant hills of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, this eco-luxury boutique hotel offers a captivating blend of sustainable hospitality and contemporary comfort. With its breathtaking views of the mist-covered forests and the Pacific Ocean beyond, Hotel Belmar invites guests to embark on an immersive journey of relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the splendor of Costa Rica's renowned biodiversity. Whether indulging in farm-to-table dining at the acclaimed Belmar restaurant, partaking in adventurous excursions through the cloud forest, or simply unwinding in the eco-friendly accommodations designed to minimize environmental impact, Hotel Belmar promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates both nature and luxury.
Cervezas Artesanales Belmar The hotel hosts a tap room and beer garden, microbrewery—brewed on site—situated atop a hill overlooking a natural spring water lake. It’s an incredible scenery to relax in and enjoy an afternoon drink. While we waited for our room to be prepared, we walked from the main chalet down a winding path of banana and lime trees and lush vegetable gardens to the Cervezas Artesanales. There we ordered the Aurorae Pale Ale, and Passionfruit Hefeweizen. The Passionfruit Hefeweizen was really incredible and passionfruit forward. If it’s in season when you visit, this is a beer you should definitely try. In addition to beer, the they serve some small bites. The nachos looked really tempting as they made their way above our heads and to other tables, but we were more tempted by the hummus bowl with brioche, and vegan sausage topped with cabbage and apple. Both dishes were tasty and used ingredients from the Belmar farm and gardens. It was the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon beer.
Celajes The first thing that draws you into restaurant Celajes is the stunning view overlooking the cloudy rainforest out to the pacific ocean. When booking a reservation, be sure to request outdoor dining to take full advantage of the panoramic views. The menu is based on farm to table dining. Breakfast, dinner, and cocktail items on the menu were all well executed and the garden fresh ingredients were really the star of every dish and drink.
Finca Madre Tierra. The first carbon neutral farm in Costa Rica, visiting Finca Madre Tierra was definitely a highlight of our trip. We started off with a horseback ride through the country side. The cloud cover and green mountains made for some stunning views. We then went on a guided walking tour of the farm. We visited the animals and various fruit and vegetable gardens. We ate guava fresh off the tree. Impressively, in addition to an abundance of fruits and vegetables, they produce coffee, sugarcane—which they guided us through converting into sugar water— and produce their own cheese. Everything produced on the farm, is served at the Hotel Restaurants and sold at their weekend market.
Rooms and amenities. The rooms at the Belmar are spacious chalet style rooms and perfect to enjoy a mountain setting. They include large decks/terraces to enjoy the mountain scenery from. You’ll also have access to spa services, jacuzzi, yoga, and a juice bar. It’s the perfect place to relax.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
Ticket: Our tickets were included with the tour we booked (for this type of hike, I really recommend that you book a tour guide). If you venture on your own it’s $25 per person
Cafe Colibri: At the conclusion of our hike through the Cloud Forest, we stopped off at Cafe Colibri (hummingbird). Feeders attracted dozens of hummingbirds at a time and it was pretty incredible to catch so many moving so quickly. The cafe also served an excellent cup of coffee—Monteverde Coffee—and some excellent pastries. We had a banana bread with a smooth chocolate frosting, and a savory flaky cheese and tomato pastry.
