Hotel Rio Perlas Spa and Resort
Cartago
Set in the spectacular Orosi Valley, Hotel Rio Perlas Spa and Resort offers exemplary amenities so you can stay centered while exploring this fascinating region of Costa Rica. Whether you are traveling as a family, business group, couple or solo, you’ll find this resort has something for everybody and at a real bargain price!
Located only 1.5 hours southeast from the San Jose airport in Alajuela, depending on traffic conditions, the Resort property consists of 250 acres of rainforest that borders a beautiful river on one side where you can dip your toes or meditate. It hosts an onsite lake where you can fish, a natural thermal hot spring that feeds into the Spa and pool area, and a chapel. Built as a perfect replica of the Orosi Colonial Church, Costa Rica’s oldest still operating Catholic church, the Lodge’s chapel offers a place of inspiration that can also be used for weddings.
The original Colonial Church, built in 1743, can be found only five miles away where you can attend church services or visit a small exquisite museum within the old convent containing original religious artifacts in its reliquary including many items made in silver. You’ll likely want to tour the iconic Basilica Catholic Church as well, of Byzantine design and with a rich cultural history drawing pilgrimages of devout Catholics every August.
Just a little farther away is the active Irazu Volcano, the highest in Costa Rica. Tours to the top will take you to trails circling 3 craters in the tundra like terrain above the tree line. On a clear day, you can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea plus a line of volcanoes cutting across the country.
Back at the Lodge besides trout fishing, you’ll find trails throughout the property, excellent for birdwatching. You and your family can enjoy swimming in a cold pool, special children’s pool, or soaking in the natural mineral waters of a thermal heated pool fed by the Lodge’s hot spring. In addition, you’ll find a Jacuzzi or two in the comfortable lounging area and a steam room, dry sauna plus Turkish bath.
An onsite Spa specializes in an array of therapeutic treatments including hot rock or water massages, detoxification, rejuvenation, facials, as well as a personal trainer. The hydrotherapy treatments along with the mud wraps use the natural volcanic mineral spring waters found on the premises.
Two onsite restaurants serve up delicious traditional cuisine using organic fruits and vegetables, fish caught on the estate, and other locally sourced foods. Breakfast is included and you can choose to add lunch and/or dinner to your hotel package. A poolside bar provides snacks and refreshments around the pool area.
In addition to weddings, you might consider using the Conference Center for any large group activities. With a capacity for up to 150 people, the center’s facilities can accommodate meals at the Lodge’s two restaurants. Free WiFi and conference rooms are available.
The spacious rooms share a wraparound terrace to enjoy the view and are angled to provide added privacy. All rooms include Cable TV, a refrigerator, and private bathroom with a bathtub. Handicap rooms are an added convenience. Considering the moderate price, Hotel Rio Perlas Spa and Resort offers an abundance of onsite amenities plus its location in the midst of the breathtaking Orosi Valley can’t be beat!
Latitude: N 9° 47' 24.3"
Longitude: W 83° 51' 3.29"
07/16/2019
This is a nice, quiet hotel but a bit difficult to access. Even seemingly nearby destinations such as San Gerardo de Dota are pretty far away. The hotel itself is ideal if you are seeking seclusion and a relaxing vibe. There is a hot springs pool and a scenic river runs through the heart of the property. The breakfast was good and the service was great.
