Fodor's Expert Review Monte Azul

Editor's Note: This location is no longer in operation.

Set in a private nature reserve bordering the rushing Chirripó River, this sleek and chic boutique hotel is an artistic triumph, both inside and out, with luxurious accommodations and sophisticated cuisine unmatched in the area. Visiting resident artists have supplied the eclectic art—all of which is for sale—in the four stylishly contemporary bungalows and the spectacular restaurant. Each bungalow has its own garden, terrace, and elegant bathroom. Café Blue (by reservation only for nonguests) opens onto a gorgeous garden and serves organic food exquisitely prepared with cosmopolitan flair. Desserts and homemade breads are standouts. You can also arrange a cheese tasting, featuring eight of the hotel’s European-style goat cheeses and a glass of wine. Don’t pass up the chance to meet the lovely white goats, comfortably housed in a fresh-air barn. Shaded nature trails hug the river and climb into the forest and up to the hotel's organic coffee farm. Along with hiking, you can keep fit with a personal trainer or a private yoga session. Birding is excellent, especially from a comfortable perch in the open-air restaurant. If you feel inspired by your muse, you can take a printmaking class in the art studio with co-owner Carlos Rojas, or learn to make natural soaps with co-owner Randy Langendorfer. The room rate includes all meals, a welcome drink, and a fruit-and-cheese platter featuring the hotel’s goat cheeses.