Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
It's about 1.5km south of Santa Elena.
Hotel Belmar
HOTEL
2645-5201;
www.hotelbelmar.net
; peninsula r US$150-160, deluxe chalets
US$178-308; )
Every room at the Belmar boasts a spectacular view of forest or gulf. (Indeed, you can see
both from the 270 degrees of windows in some of the deluxe chalets.) The gorgeous light-
filled rooms are decked out with hand-crafted furniture, high-thread-count linens and spec-
tacular sunsets from the private balconies - and the higher you go, the more spectacular
they are.
The chalets are truly splurge worthy, with floor-to-ceiling windows, huge balconies and
hot tubs. Other perks (for everybody) include yoga classes, spa services and a fabulous
restaurant with those same jaw-dropping views. Incidentally, this place is a
real
eco-resort,
boasting five leaves from the Certificate of Sustainable Tourism program. Solar-heated
water, biodigested energy and rainwater harvesting are just a few of the sustainable prac-
tices at the Belmar.
Hidden Canopy Treehouses
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
(
2645-5447;
www.hiddencanopy.com
;
incl breakfast d US$254, tree houses US$322-390;
)
Hidden within 13 acres of private rainforest are five stunning stilted tree houses, built of
wood and windows. Guests relish the private tree-top balconies, luxurious bedding, water-
fall showers, custom-made furniture and local artwork. There are two less expensive, less
spacious, but equally attractive rooms in the main house. Prices include sunset drinks, fea-
turing an amazing light show in the sky.
Hidden Canopy is 3km north of Santa Elena on the road to the reserve. No kids; two-
night minimum.
Hotel Fonda Vela
LODGE
With unique architectural styling, 14 hectares of trail-laced grounds and a private stable,
this classy retreat is a sophisticated base for enjoying nature. Standard rooms are spacious
