Why Costa Rica Is A World Class Wellness Destination

The small but perfectly formed country of Costa Rica is one of the most ecologically diverse places on this planet, and it has rightly just won the coveted Earthshot Prize for its outstanding efforts in sustainability and conservation. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise, a perfect place to go for those who want some natural healing in a lush landscape that ranges from smouldering volcanoes and pristine rainforests, to the most ravishing beaches on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

For those of us who want to ramp up their fitness in nature, this is the place to go - with high octane white-water rafting on the untamed rivers, or more gentle kayaking in the balmy waters. There are hikes and climbs to suit all fitness levels, master Yogis to share their skills and stretch your body, and botanists to teach and pass on their knowledge. There is also an abundance of deserted beaches on which to unwind and relax.

Wellness and wellbeing are elevated to the highest level, with an array of outstanding Spas offering the perfect place to reboot and recharge.

THE RETREAT

Experience the unique healing energy of the Costa Rican rainforest at The Retreat Costa Rica. Founded by life coach, chef and best-selling author Diana Stobo, this five-star property nestles amongst lush green quartz mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean. At the heart of The Retreat Costa Rica is the Vida Mia Healing Centre & Spa, which offers stunning views from every angle. Carefully designed with ancient Feng Shui principles, here you can enjoy the likes of dosha-balancing massages performed by their in-house Ayurvedic doctor, detoxifying lymphatic drainage massages and a range of pampering beauty treatments using all-natural products, including Costa Rican coffee, that will help to heal and nourish your mind, body and soul.

ASCLEPIOS WELLNESS & SPA

Located on the edge of a tropical forest with views of the surrounding sugar cane and coffee plantations, mountains and volcanoes sits Asclepios Wellness and Spa, a small and intimate retreat built using sustainable materials that features just 12 rooms, all with stunning views. Founded by Naturopath Marisa Jiménez, this retreat aims to restore a person’s mind, body and soul to its natural state of balance, by correcting issues such as an unbalanced diet, a sedentary lifestyle, negative thought-patterns and a lack of restorative sleep. All of Asclepios' treatments are carried out using natural products based on the power of aromatherapy so guests can relax and feel pampered. They have a group of therapists who are highly-skilled and who specialise in different fields of holistic health, so guests are able to choose from Shiatsu, Thai massage, wraps or scrubs, floral therapy, Reiki & Naturopathy.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica is set on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean on Costa Rica's Papagayo Peninsula, a stunning 1,400-acre private peninsula boasting 15 miles of winding coastline, 31 separate white-sand beaches, four UNESCO World Heritage sites, and miles of dazzling jungle trails to explore. It offers all the luxuries you would expect to find at a Four Seasons resort, including a wonderful Spa that is inspired by the healing traditions of Central America. Here you can experience unique treatments like the invigorating Pacific clarifying scrub, which uses locally-sourced ingredients, such as honey and ground shells, or the Papagayo foot treatment, which begins with the cleansing and exfoliation of the feet and lower legs, using pure Costa Rican volcanic sand. You can also enjoy more traditional spa treatments such as Thai and Swedish massages.

LOS ALTOS RESORT & SPA

Set on a rainforest-covered hillside, overlooking a secluded beach next to the pristine wilderness of Manuel Antonio National Park is Los Altos Resort & Spa. It features just 25 elegant and spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows so that you feel fully immersed with the resort's stunning natural surroundings. At the heart of the resort is the Orquidea Spa, which is home to some of Costa Rica's most experienced massage therapists and aestheticians. Here you can enjoy a compelling menu of therapies, facials and treatments, as well manicures and pedicures that use only organic, all natural and sustainable ingredients, all whilst surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.

AMOR ARENAL

Located at the foothills of Arenal Volcano overlooking the rainforest is Amor Arenal, a secluded luxury rainforest hotel featuring 31 enormous standalone casitas which each measure 872 sq. ft. Each one has a direct view of the volcano from a private deck equipped with its very own private spring water-fed plunge pool. In addition to its stunning natural setting and its spacious accommodation, the property also boasts a full service Spa that offers a wide range of massages, body wraps, facials, pedicures and manicures that use all-natural products from the local area such as their chocolate and coffee body wraps.

EL SILENCIO LODGE & SPA

Floating like a cloud in the rainforest canopy near the Poas Volcano, El Silencio Lodge & Spa is one of Costa Rica's most secluded, tranquil, relaxing and environmentally friendly wellness retreats. Its beautiful setting aside, El Silencio also boasts a wonderful Spa that is set in the middle of the forest, allowing guests to fully connect with the elements while enjoying sumptuous natural locally inspired treatments, including chocolate and rainforest aromatherapy massages. There's also a wide range of activities to get involved with that will help you to get back to nature and truly disconnect from the stresses and strains of modern day life such as outdoor Yoga and meditation, hiking, mountain biking and horse riding. 

TABACON THERMAL RESORT & SPA

Set amongst lush rainforest, with fantastic views over the Arenal Volcano, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a rainforest escape unlike any other. At the heart of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa are their thermal mineral springs which are naturally heated by the nearby Arenal volcano’s magma. The high temperatures of the thermal springs cause the water to be rich in minerals such as silica, calcium and lithium - all of which can be absorbed through the skin and are believed to relieve stress, promote relaxation and relieve ailments such as poor circulation and arthritis. In addition to the thermal mineral springs, there's also a great Spa, with treatment bungalows tucked away within the trees, offering complete privacy. Here you can enjoy a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments using all-natural products from the local area such as a volcanic mud wrap.