Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(
www.mounttotumas.com
; s/d US$50/80, cabin US$140; )
This 160-hectare ecore-
sort borders Parque Internacional La Amistad, 20km from Volcán. Far and away from
creatures without wings or paws, the cloudforest setting is a biologist's dream. There are
spacious rooms, hammock decks with views, and well-equipped kitchens. Off the grid,
hot water and electricity comes via a micro-hydroplant. Guests can sign up for guided
hikes or horseback riding.
Contact via the website. Transportation is available from Volcán (US$40 one way),
otherwise guests need a high-clearance 4WD.
Daily's Diner
AMERICAN $
(mains US$2.50; 7:30am-8:30pm)
On the way into Volcán, this converted gas station is a
tour de force of home cooking. The glass-front diner is run by the tiny and formidable
Daily. We recommend the American-style breakfasts and other gringo treats, such as
wholegrain cookies and cinnamon rolls. The menu is incredibly diverse, ranging from
outstanding burgers to Thai curries.
Portions are on the small side but prices are very reasonable. It's best on a weekday,
since the resident expats hold court on the weekends.
Il Forno
ITALIAN $$$
( 6827-0621; mains US$10-18; noon-9pm Thu-Sun; )
In the center of Volcán, chef-run
Il Forno serves up satisfying and authentic Italian fare, ranging from thin-crust pizzas to
beef carpaccio, homemade pasta and churrasco beef plates. Il Forno also makes its own
ricotta cheese. The atmosphere is rustic but inviting.
Cerro Brujo Gourmet
INTERNATIONAL $$$
$$$
( reservations only 6669-9196; sector Brisas del Norte; mains US$12-18; noon-3pm &
6-10pm)
Another excellent food destination, this is a vibrant and relaxed colonial country
house with no menu - just two daily options. Patti Miranda's mouthwatering creations
include garden salad, squash-blossom soup, baked chicken with blue cheese and dill, or
grilled steak, with banana flambé for dessert.
Grab a taxi there or take the signed turnoff on the main road about 1km in on a dirt
road.
Getting There & Away
