Cloud Forest Lodge, Monteverde

• The hilltop setting is surrounded by nature, with views over the surrounding cloud forest and the Nicoya Gulf.
• Spacious suites include plush pillowtop mattresses, hardwood flooring, solar-powered showers, and furnished outdoor terraces.
• The lodge is committed to sustainability and conservation, with a portion of the property designated as a private reserve.
• The on-site Endémica restaurant serves traditional Costa Rican flavors with an innovative twist, and offers plentiful plant-based options.

• Because the lodge prioritizes environmental sustainability, it doesn't provide air-conditioning in the rooms. However, the elevation and forested surroundings often keep temperatures comfortable.

Authenticity

Cloud Forest Lodge underwent a significant transformation after 26 years of operation. This rejuvenation effort included renovating 20 rooms, adding five new ones, and enhancements to the reception area and the restaurant. The secluded, authentic feel of the property hasn't changed; the staff hails mainly from the local community, and the updated suites feature natural hardwoods and artisan craftsmanship that echoes the natural surroundings. The lodge's restaurant, Endémica, introduces you to gourmet interpretations of traditional Costa Rican cuisine, drawing inspiration from local recipes adapted with a gourmet twist.

Location

The lodge's grounds encompass nearly 50 acres (23 ha) of lush greenery set atop a hill. The secluded setting can require some effort to reach, especially at night, but the views of the Nicoya Gulf and Arenal Volcano make it worth the journey. The elevation of 4,823 feet (1,469 m) provides panoramic vistas, which you can enjoy from the lodge's porches and common areas. However, a quick 7-minute drive gets you to downtown Santa Elena and 15 minutes takes you to Sky Adventures Park via the Monteverde Wildlife Refuge.

Rooms & Bathrooms

Cloud Forest Lodge is now an all-suite accommodation after its renovation. You can choose from Tityra Junior Suites, Euphonia Deluxe Suites, and Manakin Suites, all with hardwood flooring, plush pillowtop mattresses, imported linens, and pops of color. The rooms are spacious, with perks like outdoor terraces, robes, and a turndown service. Grab one of the Junior Suites for more space and a cozy reading nook. Bathrooms are large, modern, and feature solar-heated showers.

Amenities

One of the unique experiences that Cloud Forest Lodge offers is guided night walks through its property. They allow you to immerse yourself in the forest's nocturnal world, possibly seeing everything from ocelots and pumas to captivating bioluminescent creatures.  The restaurant is another perk, especially with its plentiful plant-based options and airy dining room surrounding an open fireplace. There's also a complimentary breakfast served each morning that gets rave reviews from past guests.

Family-Friendliness

The lodge welcomes children, and its spacious Euphonia Deluxe Suites can accommodate families of four comfortably. Children over 12 are charged as adults, and the lodge doesn't offer extra cribs or beds. Though you won't find standard amenities like a pool here, active, adventurous kids will love the large grounds and plentiful wildlife, and there's a neighboring zipline facility that's easily accessible. Because of the sprawling nature of the property, it's best suited to older children who can walk longer distances.

Wildlife

A sizeable portion of the lodge's 50-acre (23 ha) property is a dedicated private nature reserve, part of a vital wildlife corridor that links the provinces of Puntarenas and Guanacaste along the Pacific coast. Wildlife is plentiful and diverse—resident coatis, armadillos, and monkeys roam the gardens, and colorful hummingbirds frequent the feeders around the lodge's dining area. 

Sustainability

Cloud Forest Lodge prides itself on being an environmentally conscious property, aligned with the Böena Group's commitment to sustainability. The lodge charges a small conservation fee per person, which supports various conservation and educational initiatives. Produce for the restaurant is sourced locally and sustainably whenever possible, and staff is hired from the surrounding communities. Solar panels power each room's hot shower, and the lodge uses zero single-use plastic and fully biodegradable cleaning products and detergents.