Malekus Mountain Lodge, Rincón de la Vieja

5.0 (1 review) · Standard
Eco-conscious mountain lodge on a large organic farm with private trails, a pool, a game room, and homemade breakfasts

Overview

Malekus Mountain Lodge is a simple ecolodge nestled between Rincon de la Vieja and Miravalle Volcano, offering guests an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience in Costa Rica. The lodge is surrounded by natural scenery and is home to a diverse array of plants and wildlife, including 250 bird species. Guests can explore the lodge's private 288-acre (116-hectare) organic farm and enjoy hiking trails, a garden, a pool, and a game room. The hosts, Roger and Rosie, hope to make their guests feel like part of the family, providing homemade breakfasts and recommendations for area activities and restaurants.

Kimkim's Take

Ioannis K.
Ioannis K. Antoniadis kimkim staff
Based on kimkim staff visit, August 2023 (Learn more)
Pros
  • You'll be immersed in nature at the Malekus Mountain Lodge, with opportunities to observe wildlife, including 250 bird species.
  • The lodge is located on a private organic farm, enhanced with native trees, fruits, and vegetables planted by the hosts.
  • You can explore the environment through a hand-laid 2-mile (3.5-km) trail, "El Sendero Verde" (The Green Path), built by the hosts without adverse environmental impact.
  • The lodge's location between two national parks, Rincon de la Vieja and Miravalle Volcano, offers diverse plants and wildlife.
  • Your hosts are passionate about preserving authenticity and strive to make their guests feel welcome as part of their family.
  • A personal "mirador" (lookout) on the property offers views of Lake Nicaragua and volcanic peaks.
Cons
  • You might find the WiFi to be spotty at times, but this could be an opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
  • The lodge requires payment in cash (euros and dollars accepted), so you'll need to be prepared for this.

Authenticity

Malekus Mountain Lodge is a testament to the vision of its creators, Roger and Rossie, who aimed to create a space that brings people closer to nature. The lodge is nestled within a private 288-acre (116-hectare) organic farm, where the hosts have enhanced the natural environment by planting native trees, fruits, and vegetables. There's also a hand-laid trail weaving about 2 miles (3.5 km) through the property. 

Location

Located between two national parks, Rincon de la Vieja and Miravalle Volcano, Malekus Mountain Lodge offers an authentic stay in the Costa Rican jungle. You'll be in a remote area, yet still just off the main highway and about a 6-minute drive from the nearest town, which isn't big but has a few eateries, a church, and a market. But you might not even want to leave the property, as it has its own "mirador" (lookout), providing views of Lake Nicaragua and volcanic peaks, plus a walking trail and organic garden. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms at Malekus Mountain Lodge offer a basic yet relaxed stay, with the decor reflecting the natural surroundings of the lodge. The cabins have wood paneling on the walls and ceilings and feature rustic wooden furnishings. Other amenities include chairs, a table, an electric fan, and private bathrooms. Otherwise, the rooms are quite no-frills, though this is purposeful to maintain a quiet, rustic ambience. 

Other Highlights

You can enjoy a few amenities at the property, with the big highlight being the hiking trails that provide an intimate experience of the jungle and the viewpoint overlooking the lake and mountains. You can also relax in the garden, swim in the outdoor pool, and play billiards in the game room. The game room connects to a lounge area with exposed stonework and a fireplace. Another highlight is the delicious homemade breakfasts, which have received high praise from past kimkim travelers. Many thanks to the hosts, Roger and Rosie, who are also known for their friendly and helpful nature.

Sustainability

Malekus Mountain Lodge embodies sustainability in its operations. The lodge is located on a private organic farm, where the hosts have planted native trees, fruits, and vegetables. This initiative not only enhances the natural environment but also contributes to the conservation of local plant species. The hosts also hand-built the trail, "El Sendero Verde" (The Green Path), which allows you to experience the jungle without causing adverse environmental impact.

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Hotel Information

Hotel stars icon 3-star Hotel
Hotel address icon 164 upala, 21302 Aguas Claras, Costa Rica

Traveler Reviews

Ioannis K.
Ioannis K. A.
the Netherlands | Reviewed on Sep 15, 2023
An amazing experience! Rosie and Roger dreamt of a place where humans could connect with nature and they accomplished something extraordinary. I have nothing but compliments for this place. Read more

An amazing experience! Rosie and Roger dreamt of a place where humans could connect with nature and they accomplished something extraordinary. I have nothing but compliments for this place.

Authenticity & Character
Roger and Rosie have well-thought everything out—truly unique place.
Location
A bit remote but this is expected for this accommodation. The purpose of your stay here should be to disconnect.
Staff
The guests are two of the most welcoming people to have ever met.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Spotless!

Like what you see?

Chat with our local specialists and let us help you customize your trip with hotels like this.

Get started

Hotel Information

Hotel stars icon 3-star Hotel
Hotel address icon 164 upala, 21302 Aguas Claras, Costa Rica