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

Château de Montvillargenne: 

A historic soul revived One of the largest, and most important, chateaux-hotels in France, Chateau de Montvillargenne also known as Jeanne & the Forest, is the ideal destination for those wishing to explore the regions many treasures. A descendant of

Go big or go home

Time to take the plunge and start planning for next year’s garden, pool and patio parties…. Whether it’s designing an exciting new fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, a new prep station, or an upgraded grill with some savvy storage solutions, here are

Firelight & Fine Wine:

Bottles made for Winter nights  Winter calls for wines that wrap you in warmth like cashmere and candlelight. These bottles have the weight, texture, and aromatic depth that feel tailor-made for the season. Louis Roederer Brut Premier Champagne. Champagne A.C.,

Liquid Assets tries to hibernate

Nature takes the lead Simple, intuitive maintenance and a wide range of colours make Porcelanosa’s large format surfaces for floors and walls the ideal choice. Porcelanosa Channel your inner snow queen. Get under the covers, run yourself a warm bath

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