Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
in a tree at the intersection, then keep an eagle eye for its driveway on your left). Linda
and Ernie have been farming in Costa Rica since 1977, and a two-hour tour of their
mi-
crobeneficio
(miniprocessing plant) is a fantastic introduction to the processes of organic-
coffee growing, harvesting and roasting.
Heading south from Paraíso towards Orosi, you'll hit
Mirador Orosi
( 6am-5pm)
, a
scenic overlook complete with toilets, secure parking lot, and ample photo and picnic op-
portunities.
About 2km south of Paraíso, and 1km off the main road,
Sanchirí Mirador & Lodge
(
2574-5454;
www.sanchiri.com
;
s/d incl breakfast US$67/82; )
is a delightful, family-run
B&B whose dozen ceramic-tiled rooms come with comfortable wood furnishings and
staggering vistas of the Río Reventazón valley below; five rustic two-level
cabinas
offer a
cozier atmosphere but less dramatic views. Green touches include an organic garden, a
bio-digestor for recycling food waste into cooking fuel, and a small collection of farm an-
imals that kids will find irresistible. If you only need a lunch stop, the on-site
restaurant
(mains US$7-25;
7am-9pm)
is a great choice for generous portions and even more extra-
vagant views.
Orosi
Pop 4500
Named for a Huetar chief who lived here at the time of the Conquest, Orosi charmed Span-
ish colonists in the 18th century with its perfect climate, rich soil and wealth of water -
from lazy hot springs to bracing waterfalls. So, in the typical fashion of the day, they de-
cided to take the property off Orosi's hands. Today the area remains picturesque - and is a
good spot to revel in beautiful scenery and a small-town atmosphere.
Sights
Iglesia de San José Orosi
CHURCH
Orosi is one of the few colonial-era towns to survive Costa Rica's frequent earthquakes,
which have thankfully spared the photogenic village church. Built in 1743, it is the oldest
religious site still in use in Costa Rica. The roof of the church is a combination of thatched
cane and ceramic tiling, while the carved-wood altar is adorned with religious paintings of
Mexican origin.
