Volcán Turrialba Lodge

Volcán Turrialba Lodge Review

On the upper slope of the volcano, this affordable, rustic lodge is as close as you can get to an active volcano. The lodge has simple rooms made cozy by wood-burning stoves; most rooms now open out onto a small kitchen and sitting area, suitable for families and groups. You'll eat well at the restaurant here: the proprietors serve healthful Costa Rican food, including lamb provided by the huge flock of sheep grazing all over the grounds. Even more compelling are the tours—on mountain bikes, horseback, and on foot—around the area; unfortunately there are no tours on foot or horseback to the summit of Turrialba Volcano at this writing. Bird-watching here is excellent, with abundant, high-altitude species, such as the sooty robin and the fierce, fiery-throated hummingbird. This place is not for everyone—it gets chilly and it's quite rustic—but it's a unique mountain escape and a great value. Day-trippers are welcome.