The Retreat Costa Rica

Costa Rica , San José / Central Valley
ATENAS, ALAJUELA, Barrio Jesa S De Atenas
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50 reviews shown

10/10

Exceptional

16 Feb 2026

Gina

Beautiful property, amazing staff and wonderful food! So rested!

10/10

Exceptional

15 Jan 2026

Nizam

This retreat has the friendliest and most professional staff. The food was excellent, and the spa and amenities were great. Thank you!

8/10

Excellent

05 Jan 2026

Laurent

The facilities are outstanding. The view is stunning. Beautiful place. We had a great time. This said, I think the wine selection could be improved (wines are ridiculously expensive for the quality). The food at the main restaurant was not that great, but our dinner at mystique was excellent.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Nov 2025

Jennifer

Highly recommend The Retreat hotel! It was gorgeous and the views breath taking. The staff was very attentive and kind. Will definitely go again. The tours were over priced though. ~400 per tour and while the locations were beautiful it was not worth that much money. Also note there is no food you can buy except for in the restaurants there. So grab some snack at the airport. But highly recommend this place. Even in the rainy season it was amazing

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

27 Aug 2025

Jamie

The property is truly wonderful—a perfect place to find peace of mind, reset, detach, and return as a better person. I only wish I had more time to stay, perhaps even a month or two, because it’s definitely a place I plan to revisit.

The commute through the resort involves quite a few hills, which at times felt like a workout, but I like to think of it as built-in cardio—almost like hiking. The food was absolutely outstanding—five stars, maybe even ten.

I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a rejuvenating and memorable experience.

Business_and_leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 Aug 2025

Szabolcs

We had the time of our life at the Retreat! I thank all the staff for their kindness and thoughtfullness.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 May 2024

Marsha Elizabeth

Beautiful and restful.

Leisure Self

4/10

Poor

16 Mar 2024

Aleksandr

This is a MOUNTAIN resort. Meaning there are very steep hills and to stay here you need to be very fit to be able to climb those hills to spa, restaurant, pool. Felt very bad for older people who had difficulties doing that. There’s no room service. Rooms are located on steep hills. Breakfast starts at 8:30! This is the latest breakfast we’ve ever had to have - we wake up at 5 and like to start our day early. Spa is nice. Steam room is very cold, can’t even get a steam higher.
There was power outage one day for a couples of house and you’d think that a 5 star hotel would have a generator, but had to take a cold shower…
Internet was out during those few hours and if you still need to do some work - you can’t.

Leisure Family

6/10

Pleasant

16 Dec 2023

Vincenzo

Potentially lovely but now past its best

We were really excited about this stay having read all of the reviews but ended up disappointed. We received a room upgrade which we were grateful for but the room was very tired, particularly the bathroom area which had a handful of areas of damage. The room was also dirty, which we pointed out with photos to staff and they kind of asked us why we had looked for dirt (which we found when we moved a unit to plug a charger in) and there were multiple hairs in the room. They did do a “detail clean” but we keep our own house cleaner. Additionally we were woken by grounds keepers making loud banging noises every morning at 6am. Additionally they pride themselves on their food which we found to be average and $57 per person for dinner which we thought was expensive for the level of the food. On the positive side the communal areas were very nice and we had excellent massages.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

12 Sep 2022

Michael

Perfect place to relax and energize

The place was amazing. Very relaxing, with plenty of local trip or adventure options. The food was impeccable and the staff was friendly and accommodating.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

31 Jul 2022

Dora

Few bumps but they were quick to fix the issues and very efficient. Thanks to Alejandro for a great service .

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

25 Jul 2022

Carla

The Retreat is truly Heaven on Earth from the location to the staff to the food and spa. If you need to refresh and recenter yourself, this is the only place to go. Days filled with yoga, hiking, meditation, and relaxation await. We will make this an annual trip!

10/10

Exceptional

23 May 2021

Verified traveler

This was the easiest vacation I've ever been on as far as the hotel having the most popular tours available and creating a personalized daily schedule. Hotel staff do take you on each tour so you become comfortable with every one you interact with. Meals were my biggest worry going in but they were all well seasoned with good portion sizes and 3 courses with every dinner-- we had fish most nights and beef once during our stay. If we visit again, we would choose a more inclusive package as it was very easy to spend $1000/day between tours, treatments, and meals for 2.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

24 Apr 2021

Verified traveler

It was a very relaxing stay.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

19 Mar 2021

Stephanie

I want to go back!

Amazing setting, spa (Laura was especially accommodating), restaurant (Jonathan was great) and incredible food. The front office, the driver from the airport were all very kind and attentive. Sofia, the yoga instructor was excellent. I can hardly wait to go back.

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

11 Jan 2020

Verified traveler

The Retreat is a short drive from the San Jose Airport. The property feels serene and welcoming. The rooms off the yoga studio are definitely for morning people. The spa is world class. The views and sunsets spectacular.

Business_and_leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

03 Oct 2019

Michael

Wow.

Amazing stay and hospitality. Only place I’ll stay when returning to Costa Rica.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

22 Sep 2019

Verified traveler

Best place to stay near san jose

Amazing - beat our expectations by a mile and the photos don't do justice. The food is world class and we felt amazing after just one night stay.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Sep 2019

Thea

Quick weekend break

Gorgeous stay at the Retreat! We ate well and relaxed - the place is done very, very well, with beautiful views and very comfortable rooms. The only complaint I have is that the mattresses could have been better (which is often the case in hotels). We didn’t get up to much on our short stay besides lounging by the pools and in the spa and working out in the perfectly well equipped gym, but we did do one yoga class which was lovely - the studio is beautiful. The wildlife on the property is fantastic - incredible flowers and landscaping and peacocks, other exotic birds, butterflies, iguana, fish. The property is new and the spaces are very well appointed and extremely comfortable. It was only a 1.5 hour drive from San Jose during rush hour and only took us 30 mins to get to the airport to leave (not during rush hour).

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

08 Sep 2019

kthooch

It’s really hard to describe this property in a way that fairly captures its essence. It’s amazing. Decadent treat all the way around: food, service, views, spa and services and overall ambiance. Will be back.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

04 Sep 2019

ADRIAN

Perfect little Gem

This place is perfect for a quiet get away. Healthy. You will feel refreshed after resting in this hidden gem. Food is healthy. Atmosphere is relaxing. The staff are very polite and helpful. Everything is perfect.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

07 Aug 2019

Verified traveler

The retreat gave stellar service. From the moment I stepped to the front desk I was greeted with a fresh juice and cool cloth. I received a tour of the beautiful property and then escorted to my room.

The food delicious, the yoga class was amazing and all of the staff were so friendly and welcoming. Grissela at the front desk packed a beach bag for me for excursions, the 2 chefs I seen the most were very kind and made vegan meals, Thank you Chef Sergio and his apprentice. Big thank you to Gustavo I believe is his name he gave a wonderful tour of the property and was very helpful throughout my stay.

The property is safe the views are breathtaking. Wish I spent more time just at the hotel. It is extremely tranquil and relaxing.

Leisure Self

10/10

Exceptional

09 Jul 2019

Verified traveler

The property was beautiful, the food was amazing, and the staff was very friendly. Everything was personalized, could not have asked for a better stay. They even picked us up at Liberia when our flight plans went awry.

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

07 Jul 2019

Emmanuel

Breathtaking views, nothing better than waking up well rested to that amazing mountain view.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

23 May 2019

Verified traveler

This is a wonderful place to stay. Pure beauty. The staff was very friendly and helpful.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Dec 2018

Verified traveler

Best retreat ever, really nice attention and amazing state

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

26 Nov 2018

mary

Relaxing spa hotels with wonderful food.

The Retreat is situated in an area voted to enjoy the best climate in the world! That is debatable but, what is not debatable is the wonder that is the Retreat. We spent five days there, probably not long enough but managed to totally unwind and relax. The rooms and bed are most comfortable and the atmosphere very zen. The staff are all very friendly and accommodating. The food is healthy and delicious but don’t expect burgers and chips here! If you are thinking about coming to the Retreat, don’t hesitate a minute longer.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

14 Nov 2018

Verified traveler

Great location but the lack of signs at the entrance make it difficult to find. Also lack of lighting in the parking area made it hard to park and walkways are not adequately lit. We needed a flashlight to navigate to and from our room.

Business_and_leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

14 Oct 2018

Verified traveler

It was a magical vacation just to detach. We did just one excursion on purpose. The food was amazing( chef Sergio ) Didn’t realize healthy food can taste so good. The staff really goes out of their way to be have a personal touch!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

21 Sep 2018

caycoffee

Mere words are insufficient to describe this amazing property!!! From the awe inspiring beauty of the mountain setting, the impeccable design and layout of the property, unbelievable landscaping, the genuinely friendly and helpful staff, to the most incredibly talented chefs I've seen ANYwhere!! THIS is THE place to be. Diana Stobo has set out to create something very special here and she does not disappoint. They have evidently done well enough in their short time (2014) to add on with the construction of a new spa and eventually more loft-style rooms. At the same time they refuse to give in to the pressures of a commercialized hotel property catering to the masses. Instead they remain true to their values and passion to provide the ultimate experience for their guests, and that is a peaceful, beautiful, tranquil space to RESET! (No children allowed here) Don't wait, you have everything to gain by staying at The Retreat. I promise you'll want to book your next stay before you leave!!

10/10

Exceptional

20 Sep 2018

Jennifer

What I did like and found unique about this resort was that there were only 11 rooms. Which means the staff were very attentive, and they made sure all of your needs were taken care of. Totally recommend staying in this hotel.

10/10

Exceptional

08 Sep 2018

Tanya

Paradise

Absolutely incredible hospitality, fantastic food, and gorgeous surroundings. Loved it. Can’t wait to return.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Jul 2018

This place was amazing!! The staff was wondeful and helpful! We came for my mothers birthday they made her a special little cake that was delicious!! The food was amazing!! They truly make you feel you comfortable. I highly recommend this place.

10/10

Exceptional

08 Jul 2018

Emily

Beautiful and very personable staff definitely felt spoiled top notch food delicious

10/10

Exceptional

14 Apr 2018

Verified traveler

Such a relaxing and beautiful place. The food was amazing. The staff was so friendly and helpful. I recommend this resort.

10/10

Exceptional

28 Feb 2018

Stuart

A little slice of heaven in Costa Rica

The Retreat is everything it promises! The warmest and friendliest welcome you could wish for ..... and that goes on throughout the stay. Great comfort in a stunningly beautiful location. And amazing food. Couldn't ask for more.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

30 Dec 2017

New yorker

TRANQUIL & RELAXING

The hotel is gorgeous with fantastic mountain views. The staff is attentive and the facilities are beautifully appointed. Dinners are a bit pricey but all are fresh and local, though options are few and meat is generally not on the menu. Location is not great considering that there is a very steep drive to get to the hotel and it is challenging driving to and fro in Costa Rica to the tourist areas. I would suggest splitting your stay, half in the forest and half at the beach to avoid taking the car as much as possible. There is uber and it is half price or more compared to the local taxi or hotel shuttle service. The hotel is great if you just want to chill and relax!!!!

10/10

Exceptional

21 May 2017

Julie B

Amazing retreat experience with best food & staff.

This was my retreat experience and was delighted by the place. I see that EXPEDIA rates it at 3 1/2 star but would consider this place much higher. The place is very new and decorated in a calm, simple but yet stylish way. The setting on the side of the mountain offers stunning views and the sound of the forest is so peaceful. I was blown away by the attention of the employees, they are genuine and kind. If you are concern about the semi/raw diet...don't be!! I was so surprise on how good the food is, the Chefs are very creative and will offer dishes with tons of flavour. I think that was one of the highlight of my stay; the excitement just before a meal. It's an open style kitchen and you are welcome to attend some wellness/cooking classes with the Chefs. It's very educative and fun!! I also wanted to visit the idea of doing a bit of yoga while on vacation, and the teachers were also very attentive and adapted their teaching to my level (which was beginners). I am now hooked on this practice and will certainly pursue it...I want to thank the entire team to have made me feel so special and welcomed. I travelled on my own and believe that I made friends for life ....it was just the best!!

10/10

Exceptional

26 May 2024

Fabiola

Sitio agradable, muy buena atención, cerca de San José

10/10

Exceptional

06 Apr 2024

Verified traveler

Luxury you pay for

A place worth staying longer. Beautiful facilities and surroundings. Exceptional service. But is is no cheap to stay there.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

06 Apr 2024

Verified traveler

Luxury that costs

A place worth staying longer. Beautiful facilities and surroundings. Exceptional service. But is is no cheap to stay there.

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

20 Sep 2021

Diana

Una vacacion espectacular

Espectacular la atención la comida excepcional todo

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Jun 2021

Verified traveler

Fantastisk opphold!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

30 Aug 2019

Sonia

Un paraíso en las montañas de Atenas Costa Rica .

espectacular, el nuevo spa , la comida , las clases de yoga y la alimentación deliciosa.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

19 Oct 2018

Manuela

Great place to stay with an amazing view!

Such a beautiful place to stay! I will definitely be back! Very kind and caring people!

Family

10/10

Exceptional

19 Oct 2018

Kristel

Súper lindo. Excelente el servicio al cliente . Instalaciones muy cómodas y limpias. La comida es saludable y muy amena.

10/10

Exceptional

18 Sep 2018

cefhora

A little piece of heaven

Wonderful experience we enjoyed in our weekend at this beautiful hotel boutique. The service is outstanding, the chefs superb! And the food exquisite!!! Definitely, this is a place to relax and unwind. I fully recommend it.

10/10

Exceptional

19 Aug 2018

Verified traveler

Personal amable

10/10

Exceptional

12 Jan 2018

Nicole

ein unglaublich schönes hotel mit unglaublich netten angestellten.
möchtest du zeit zum relaxen, dann bist du hier genau richtig. man kommt an und fühlt sich gleich total wohl, ein hervorragendes hotelkonzept!
auch als yoga-anfänger eine unvergessliche erfahrung!
vielen dank für den superschönen aufenthalt!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

29 Apr 2017

Frédéric

Hotel luxueux et relaxant avec vue ocean

Depuis notre arrivée jusqu'à notre départ nous avons été traités comme des princes. Le personnel est super accueillant et souriant, et toujours prêts pour s'assurer que tout se passe au mieux. Nous avons apprécié la visite de l'hôtel et l'explication de son concept zen. Le restaurent de l'hôtel est délicieux avec des produits frais du jardin ou des environs. La vue est à couper le souffle sur la nature environnante et va même jusqu'à l'océan pacifique. Le spa est très relaxant. C'est un hotel assez jeune (moins d'un an) mérite le detour pour une coupure zen et reposante. Le wifi est disponible pour les mails et envoyer de super photos. Merci encore à Hans pour tout. 2 jours c'était très court mais nous reviendrons.

Partner