Hotel Grano de Oro

San José, Costa Rica

Situated on a shady street just off Paseo Colón, San José's main thoroughfare, Hotel Grano de Oro is a beautifully converted Victorian mansion. The 35 rooms are furnished in an old-fashioned style with wrought-iron beds and rich damask. The art and furnishings are handcrafted by Costa Rican artists and no two rooms are alike. The elegant Grano de Oro restaurant serves excellent Costa Rican and European cuisine with seating available in an intimate courtyard.

Number of nights: 1

Mawamba Lodge

Tortuguero, Costa Rica

Mawamba Lodge is situated on a thin strip of land between Tortuguero's canals and the Caribbean Sea. The accommodation consists of 58 simple but comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, hot water, and ceiling fans. There is a swimming pool with Jacuzzi, two family-style restaurants serving local and international cuisine, a barbecue area, a bar, a souvenir shop, a sand volleyball court, and a conference room where daily lectures on Tortuguero's natural history are presented. There is also a frog garden and butterfly sanctuary on site.

Number of nights: 2

Arenal Springs Resort and Spa

Arenal, Costa Rica

Set in expansive grounds surrounded by swathes of tropical gardens, Arenal Springs is a pleasant and comfortable choice for your time in Arenal. Spacious suites are located in bungalows throughout the property, each with a terrace with views of the Arenal Volcano.  The resort has three restaurants, as well as a swimming pool, spa,  and mineral hot springs set amid the gardens.

Number of nights: 3

Hotel Belmar

Monteverde, Costa Rica

The family-run Hotel Belmar was one of the first hotels to open in Monteverde, but the owners' commitment to the upkeep of the hotel, its décor and amenities for guests also make it one of the best in the area. It continues to remain current by introducing modern concepts, from an on-site micro-brewery to a craft cocktails and juice bar, to a farm-to-table spa and restaurant. The hotel is comprised of two chalet-style wooden buildings with rooms comfortably appointed  with rustic wooden furniture. It has its own nature trail and gardens and offers beautiful views.

Number of nights: 2

Hotel Bahía del Sol

Bahia del Sol, Costa Rica

Bahia del Sol is an unpretentious tropical hideaway with a sustainable ethos and a lot of charm. The staff are exceptionally friendly, and there's a laid-back atmosphere that encourages guests to relax and enjoy themselves. The hotel features a spa and an ample-sized swimming pool, a Jacuzzi and a wet bar; all surrounded by comfortable sunbeds and shaded by huge palm trees. Rooms are spacious and inviting, with contemporary furnishing combined with natural elements.

Number of nights: 3