The magic of the rainforest

Birdwatching at Nayara Gardens

Capuchin monkeys roam free in the northern highlands of Costa Rica, in the lush rainforest where the go-with-the-flow way of life is the order of the day for both man and beast.  

It’s a birdwatchers’ paradise. This area, called the Arenal, is one of the few places in the world that can say they are home to this many species of birds. Grab your binoculars and look for a few of the over 850 species that have been seen in Costa Rica. Popular birds to spot on Nayara Garden’s bird-watching tour at dawn include toucans, hummingbirds, trogons, and hawks. And if you are lucky you’ll get a glimpse of the shy quetzal.

An oasis of calm
Private, and undeniably romantic, free-standing villas and casitas at Nayara Gardens speak to get-away-from-it-all restfulness, tranquillity in fresh, fragrant air that’s as rejuvenating as it is restorative. Overlooking the volcano or jungle canopy, and adorned by heliconia and bouganvillia, each one is surrounded by walking paths, secret ponds full of lily pads and giant koi fish. 

Rich tastes, alfresco dining and authentic flavours reign everywhere from the intimate tapas bar to a colourful puleria that serves a fusion of Asian and Peruvian dishes. 

Open air tranquillity
The award-winning spa with its mineral hot springs precious local ingredients and light touch is well worth a full-day visit. Each treatment pavilion overlooks the ravine and includes a Jacuzzi and outdoor shower. In addition to classic massages and facials, treatments include scrubs and wraps with organic coffee, volcanic mud, and chocolate clay. Try an experience package, where a custom signature ritual is put together especially for you to provide the ultimate relaxation and renewal. 

nayaragardens.com

Get our newsletter

Get monthly updates with unique HomeFront updates and stay up to date with tips and trends

The joy of play

Often framed as the territory of childhood, the magic of play doesn’t have to expire when adulthood comes around. At any age, play can foster new energy, new interests and new connections. Especially true in a world of deadlines, work

The art of letting go

There are places in the world that impress more than the eyes—they soften the shoulders, quiet the mind, and slow everything down to a kinder pace. Villa d’Este, resting gracefully on the shores of Lake Como, is one of those

Bella Cucina turns up the heat

A kitchen marriage In a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition, Florense, Brazil’s premier high-end furniture brand and Pininfarina, the legendary Italian design studio come together in the kitchen. arcokitchen.com Too many cooks may spoil the broth so stake your

Bella Cucina turns up the heat

Best of Italy Kitchen designs that bridge old and new worlds with innovation and timeless quality thanks to Renzo Rastelli. rastelli.com Too many cooks may spoil the broth so stake your claim and make sure the kitchen is your most

The Dylan

Housed in what was the city’s first stone theatre, designed in 1638 by Jacob van Campen, The Dylan Amsterdam is a 41-room canal district boutique hotel nestled along the Keizersgracht. Led by Amsterdam-based Studio Linse and Format Furniture, the Dylan’s

The fine art of “Grilling and Chilling”

There’s something timeless about the sound of a grill sizzling on a warm afternoon. The smell of the barbecue drifting through the air, stylishly-iced cold drinks and laughter bouncing across a patio spells summer. Whether, it’s a long weekend, a