Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge

Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge, in the valley of San Gerardo de Dota

Dantica is a boutique lodge high in the cloud forest of San Gerardo de Dota, near the Savegre River and Cerro de la Muerte, close to Los Quetzales National Park. Its bungalows are scattered across a private forest reserve, with big windows onto the mountains and the trees. It suits birders, couples and families who want the quetzal, cool mountain air and a fire in the evening.

Why we choose it

• Quetzal country. San Gerardo is one of the surest places in Costa Rica to see the resplendent quetzal, and the lodge's own reserve and trails start at your door.
• Bungalows with a view. Floor to ceiling windows look onto the forest or the valley, and the rooms have a private jacuzzi for the cold nights.
• Art in the forest. The lodge has its own art gallery of Latin American work, a nice change of pace on a rainy afternoon.

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Rooms and views

There are many bungalows to choose from. The Standard Bungalow and the Quetzal Bungalow look over the forest and the mountains. The Superior Bungalows for two come in a Valley version, facing the mountains, and a Forest version among the trees, and there are larger Superior and Forest Bungalows for four, the second looking into the canopy.

The Junior Suite and the Master Suite both face the mountains, and The Terraces look into the forest. The style is warm and modern, with fireplaces, picture windows and a private jacuzzi.

On the property

Restaurante Le Tapir serves organic food, and it doubles as a gallery for pieces of art, with sofas and a fire for the cool evenings. The art gallery shows Latin American and contemporary work, from pottery to jewelry made by traditional techniques.

The private forest reserve has trails through the cloud forest, past streams and old oaks, where naturalist guides lead birding walks at dawn. There is a play park for children, and the lodge lists a pet-friendly option.

From here we can arrange the quetzal tour, a horseback ride to a waterfall, trout fishing on the Savegre, or a hike in Los Quetzales National Park.

Location and getting there

Dantica is in San Gerardo de Dota, off the Inter-American highway near Cerro de la Muerte, between San José and the southern Pacific. It is cold at night, so bring a jacket. See more about San Gerardo de Dota.

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