Where: Casa MarBella, Santa Teresa Beach, Costa Rica
Courtesy of Casa Marbella
The Lowdown: With a small uphill drive from the main street of town, lies this inviting boutique hotel – perfect for travelers looking to escape to the lavish lands of the tropics. Casa Marbella (meaning beautiful house) consists of eight separate units, all different sizes, and capacities, surrounded by an infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean from its privileged mountain slope view; making it, of course, the best spot to enjoy the sunrise to sunset. With the jungle all around you and just a five-minute drive to Carmen beach, this grand villa-style house will be the highlight of your trip. Some of the major attractions in the area include canopy hiking and natural park walks, with the hotel´s amenities, ensuring a completely peaceful stay. It won’t take long for you to be consumed by this green and quiet oasis. One of the most desired spots on the property is its ocean view deck. Made out of wood, this terrace is perched among the treetops and provides a tranquil experience for meditation practice, massages or indulge with a yoga session (also perfect for groups). One of the unique qualities of this hotel is the ability to disconnect in a no-television space from the world and really fulfill the needs of a quiet and exotic vacation. Other things to do? Relax with panoramic views, play board games or enjoy a good read thanks to the hotel´s book exchange program. On a sustainable note, one of the most special features is their conscious effort for preserving the environment. Your stay will be complemented with initiatives that make the planet a better place to live in, from recycling to collecting rainwater and using biodegradable soaps to the hotel hiring local workers.
Courtesy of Casa Marbella
Suite Talk: This eye-catching villa consists of eight separate bedrooms surrounding its infinity pool, but we recommend the luxury three-bedroom condos. Great for families or larger groups. You can leave all of the hustle and bustle of the town behind you and have a beautiful dinner right in the comfort of your private fully equipped condo.
Stylish Eats:
Hit the brunch spot
The Bakery is the most stylish coffee shop on the Nicoya Peninsula with the best brunch options, home-made bread and of course, coffee! With easy access by foot or bike, this modern café is surrounded with voluminous green plants and wooden décor, and its low-key (almost West coast) elements make you feel right at home. Owner Adi Tal and her team, offer a gourmet experience to cater to all variety of local and tourists that visit the beautiful town of Santa Teresa; her and her husband´s home since 2009.
“It all started with me and my husband baking bread and selling it to local supermarkets in town,” tells Tal about The Bakery´s beginnings. After this success, the bistro came to life, and now the fully equipped establishment is essential for a complete first world brunch: banana bread, ciabatta and fresh green juice to cool down. What else is on the menu? Amongst some breakfast favorites: avocado toast, eggs with Mediterranean sauce and a local Britt iced latte, all made from scratch, gluten-free options are also available.
The-bakery-restaurant.business.site
Courtesy of The Bakery
An all-day must
Casa del Mar, a hidden gem on the main street of Santa Teresa Beach. With a charming mix of surfer chic vibes and lights above their rustic open concept patio, this restaurant offers satisfaction in every bite. Run by a delightful Argentinian family, they adapted their home town world-known flavors and adjust it to the local palette with one motto in mind: No matter what your craving is, we have it for you! With over a decade residing and embracing the culture of this little beach town, they have been witnesses to the importance of conserving its natural elements. The result? A cozy, happy, super tasty and healthy hub where people come to have a good time, eat well and end up leaving with new friends.
The all-day menu carries a wide range of vegan, veggie, or meat lover options, all applicable to their thin wood fire made pizzas, or treat yourself with the catch of the day for that desired tico taste. Also, the absolute favorite on their selection: their freshly made empanadas. These have been voted best in town for any occasion. Casa del Mar´s cooking is no stranger to celebrities that look to get away from the flashy scene and trade up for a savory gastronomical experience.
Insider´s Tip: Make sure to rent an ATV to get around easier. The town is fairly small, but walking might not be as pleasurable due to the dirt roads and lack of –non-existing- sidewalks. If you decide to go for a swim in the ocean, have a meal in the heart of town and head back to your hotel for sunset. Casa MarBella has the most optimal views of the mountains and ocean, but it’s quite a hike without an ATV on your hands for daily trips.
Vogue Verdict: Three-step experience for an ultimate and flavorful surfer town experience.
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