Villa Caletas

I have loved Villa Caletas since my first visit in 1999 when my music group performed there as part of an international festival. I just returned (my 4th visit - and QuinTango's 4th performance there) and every visit it is more fabulous.. Driving up that winding driveway I felt the same excitement I feel when coming home! Spectacular, romantic to the max, divino, inspired AND inspirational. Every detail of this hotel reflects love and immaculate taste. I stayed in the African Room at the Zephyr Palace -- to die for gorgeous. Ho tub on a terrace with the stunning view of the Bay of Nicoya, access to a private infinity pool and the hotel's spa and gym. authentic African antiques and art. It felt more like being a guest in a magnificent home than staying in a hotel. Every member of our party (we were 25) was thrilled with their accommodations -- no two rooms were alike. It was an adventure, it was joyful, the staff were always ready to help, the golf carts were easily available by calling the concierge. On arrival we had cocktails at El Rancho -- amazing hors-d'oevres (ceviche, guacamole, quiche) and tropical drinks. We had a final dinner for 26 - everyone loved the food. But the most wonderful thing we had was a concert in the Champagne Room preceded by cocktails at sunset by the infinity pool at Zephyr Palace. It was an evening that will live in everyone's memory forever. Tangos, sunset, the impeccably designed and maintained concert setting (or wedding setting!). I am already looking for any excuse to return to my favorite hotel - Villa Caletas. Fred, the general manager, and Jose, the special services manager, were outstanding in helping us make this visit perfect. There could not be a more perfect place.

Everything about this place is magical! The pictures do not do it justice. The rooms were immaculate and uniquely decorated. The views and grounds were gorgeous. I can't tell whether there was more to see inside the hotel/rooms displays of art and design or outside surrounded by breathtaking nature. The staff were very kind and friendly. We had a great time and would recommend it to anyone.

Boutique hotel located on top of a Hill, between Punta Leona and Herradura. It’s a unique location, with surrounding ocean and forest/jungle views. It is build in a Caribbean colonial style with European charm. Warm luxurious and cozy. The infinity pool offers breathtaking views, in a beautiful tropical environment. The yoga studio is a covered but open space, with amazing views, where yoga becomes a luxury! Exotic birds, sometimes monkeys, and other tropical animals complete a paradise like environment. The gardens are spectacular, well maintained but wild! The restaurant offers a variety of choices and wines. The shrimp risotto is delicious, fresh fish is great. The bar offers a large variety of cocktails and spirits. The restaurant and bar alone are worth the visit. It is a great place to relax and unwind. Service was great, will definitely be back!

We booked a room here for a single night for a wedding we attended, and it's clear why this place is great for such special events. The infinity pool, the unobstructed view of the horizon, the sunset... what a magical place to start a new chapter in your life! The ceremony and reception sites were perfect. That said, one night also felt like enough for us. The hotel is located high up on the mountain (hence the great views) and the various rooms and facilities were also spread out across the hilly terrain. There was a lot of going up and down various slopes and stairs. A bit tricky if you're walking in heels, even wedges, as it was also hot and humid so your feet may be swollen. Our room was a mixed bag: It was a long walk from the check-in office, seemingly away from civilization so that it was quiet but it also discouraged us from visiting other guests / friends we normally would have seen. The only neighbors we saw were macaws from our balcony in the morning, which was lovely. The room was spacious and clean, but it also followed some rather odd design decisions. Like, whatever happened to toilet doors? The absence of privacy is not romantic, especially when traveling with kids. To use the toilet, we either had to lock three doors (to the bedroom, to the entryway, and to the balcony), or lock the closest door to the toilet after announcing our intentions to the rest of the household. Another design flaw was the vanity table nested in a corner of the bathroom with no natural or artificial lighting; getting ready at the sink was more practical. I did like the shampoo / shower gel collection (ginger scent). The balcony was huge and gorgeous! There was even room for a jacuzzi for any travelers who may fancy a hot water soak in a hot climate (not us!). One thing that was 100% great was the staff. All the people we interacted with were very friendly and aiming to be helpful. The food was quite good, too, whether it was at breakfast (buffet style) or dinner (menu based). Overall, we had a very good experience here, but I'm also glad we only stayed for one night. As beautiful as the views were, it was secluded and we preferred our other hotel, a 3-star hotel located steps away from the beach and closer to various activities. The sunset views were no less beautiful from there. We were in Costa Rica, after all.

Ate dinner here to watch the sunset. Best recommendation ever from our boat guide. Amazing view and fantastic food!