Costa Rica Travel News – There’s so much to do and see in Monteverde that it can be a comfort not having to worry about your accommodation. La Colina Lodge is, by far, one of the most relaxing and laid-back places I’ve ever stayed in.
If you know that you’ll be arriving later than their normal check-in time, be sure to just let the staff know and someone will be around to welcome you and give you the keys. They’re used to later arrivals with visitors coming in from San José on the afternoon bus, so don’t worry, you won’t be inconveniencing anyone.
The rooms themselves are fairly basic, but they’re incredibly comfortable and each one has a distinct homely touch. With free WiFi in every room, you won’t feel too out of touch, but I found it quite refreshing not having the temptation of turning a TV on – it gives you much more of an inclination to go out and explore! La Colina Lodge was opened in 1950 and still retains a sense of the antique; you feel like you’re staying in a quaint farmhouse, but with a lot of the modern aspects you’re used to. Believe me, this is not a bog standard, every-room-is-identical sort of hotel.
The Lodge has 10 rooms in total: 6 with private bathrooms and a further 4 with a shared bathroom. Everything was really clean and well-maintained, both in the private and shared bathrooms, so whichever option you decide to go for depends on personal preference and budget (there’s a different pricing structure depending on the style of room and the number of guests booked). If you’re looking for somewhere to just relax or socialise, they also boast a number of communal spaces including an open-plan eating area, large garden (which can be used for camping), a yoga/conference area and a cosy, cottage-style living room, complete with a chimenea. Guests have access to all sections of the Lodge so be sure to make the most of it! The weather can be a bit unpredictable in Monteverde, especially in rainy season, so it’s always good to know you’ve got a refuge somewhere!
One of the really unique things that La Colina Lodge offers to its guests is the chance to take part in yoga and cardio sessions. The leaders taking these sessions are really enthusiastic and actively encourage everyone to get involved – even if you’ve never tried! Both are offered several times a week so if you just ask at reception, they can give you a schedule and all the information you need to give it a go.
Breakfast is generous portions of french toast or pancakes topped with their homemade honey combined with fresh fruit, scrambled or fried eggs and toast. Rather than it being a mass-produced buffet style breakfast, you can just turn up to reception between the allotted times, place your order and wait for it to be freshly prepared for you. This is an additional charge of $6 per person and it’s a ideal way to set yourself up for the day ahead. There are plenty of great places to eat along the main road 
and through into Santa Elena, but if you’re looking for something quick and simple, or know you’ll be out over lunchtime, La Colina Lodge can also prepare lunches and dinners (upon special request) for groups of four people or more.
If you’re travelling with pets, finding accommodation in Costa Rica can be pretty tough. Considering the Lodge already have their own dogs, cats, a horse and a turkey, they’re more than happy to accept your furry, feathered or scaly friend – just be sure to let them know in advance so they can make any necessary preparations.
La Colina is one of the closest hotels to “La Reserva Monteverde”, “Curi Cancha” and ” El Bosque Eterno de los Niños” which are some of the most popular attractions in Monteverde.
It’s also only around a 2-3km walk (one-way) to Santa Elena and the road only has a separate pathway for pedestrians in some sections. If you’ve got bikes or a rental car, that shouldn’t be an issue, and a taxi will rarely cost you any more than ¢3,000. The official taxis here are a dark red colour, and most are 4×4 vehicles. Taxi drivers themselves are generally friendly, can get to you within 5-10 minutes and will be more than happy to recommend places for you to visit. Santa Elena isn’t generally a busy town, but I found that being a little further away from the hustle and bustle actually added to the whole atmosphere of staying at La Colina Lodge and brings you closer to nature.
All in all, this was a great place to stay as a solo traveller, but I think it would be equally fitting for couples, families or even large groups and tours. It’s on the cheaper end of the price range for hotels in Monteverde, but has more character and a far more homely feeling than any of the others could hope to achieve.
Current room rates start at $24 and reservations can be made via email or on the phone.
[email protected] or (+506) 2645 5009
