The Retreat Costa Rica
Helpful Information
Everything you need to know before and during your stay
General Information
Reservations & Policies
Getting Here
Dining
Wellness & Activities
Payments & Gratuities
During Your Stay
Section One
General Information
What is The Retreat Costa Rica?+
A boutique luxury wellness hotel located in Atenas, Costa Rica — perched on a crystal quartz mountain with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Pacific Ocean. The Retreat blends luxury hospitality with award-winning spa treatments, daily wellness programming, and nourishing anti-inflammatory cuisine. It has been recognized as one of the top spa destinations in the world by Condé Nast Traveler.
Where exactly is The Retreat located?+
The Retreat is located in Atenas, Alajuela — approximately 35–40 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José. The town of Atenas is known for having one of the best climates in the world.
Do I need to book a wellness program to stay?+
Not at all. Guests may stay as they would at any luxury hotel and enjoy the restaurants, spa, pools, and daily activities. Wellness programs are a wonderful option for those seeking a more structured, transformative experience — but they are entirely optional.
What makes The Retreat different from other wellness resorts?+
Several things set The Retreat apart: the property sits on a crystal quartz mountain with views of the Pacific Ocean; it was founded by Diana Stobo, a bestselling author and wellness expert who built the programs from the ground up; the spa — Vida Mía — has been named one of the best in the world; and the level of personal care and attention is something guests return for again and again. It is not a large resort — 25 rooms — which means everything feels genuinely intimate.
Section Two
Reservations & Stay Policies
What are the check-in and check-out times?+
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM. If you arrive earlier, our team will store your luggage and you're welcome to enjoy the property while your room is prepared.
Is there a minimum age requirement?+
Yes. The minimum age for guests is 16 years old. The Retreat is designed as a peaceful, adults-focused environment where all guests can fully rest and restore.
Are pets allowed?+
Pets are not permitted at The Retreat.
Do you host group retreats or private events?+
Yes — and it's something we do beautifully. The Retreat regularly hosts wellness retreats, corporate offsites, yoga and healing retreats, destination weddings, and private group experiences. Groups require a minimum of 8 rooms and a 4-night stay. Learn more about groups here.
Section Three
Getting Here
Getting Here
& Arrival
How far is the resort from the airport?+
The Retreat is approximately 35–40 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José — one of the closest luxury wellness destinations to the airport in Costa Rica.
Do you offer airport transportation?+
Yes. Airport transfers can be arranged through our reservations team prior to arrival at an additional cost. We recommend booking this in advance so our team is ready to meet you. Contact us at info@theretreatcostarica.com to arrange your transfer.
Do I need a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach The Retreat?+
The Retreat is located on a crystal quartz mountain, and the final approach includes a steep hill. If you are renting a car, we recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
If you are arriving by taxi or Uber: ask your driver to stop at the top of the hill where you will see a sign with our phone number. Call the Front Desk and our team will come pick you up and bring you to the property — this ensures a smooth and comfortable arrival.
Is parking available?+
Yes. Complimentary valet parking is available for all hotel guests.
Section Four
Dining at
Dining at
The Retreat
What restaurants are on property?+
The Retreat has three distinct dining experiences:
Sol Terrace — Our signature anti-inflammatory restaurant. Open daily with a chef's choice rotating menu. Meals at Sol Terrace are included in most packages. No reservation required, no printed menu — just beautifully nourishing food served each day.
La Diosa — Our poolside lounge, open to hotel guests and outside visitors. À la carte dining in a relaxed, social setting.
Mystique Rooftop — Fine dining with sweeping Pacific views. A tasting menu and à la carte options. Reservation required.
Sol Terrace — Our signature anti-inflammatory restaurant. Open daily with a chef's choice rotating menu. Meals at Sol Terrace are included in most packages. No reservation required, no printed menu — just beautifully nourishing food served each day.
La Diosa — Our poolside lounge, open to hotel guests and outside visitors. À la carte dining in a relaxed, social setting.
Mystique Rooftop — Fine dining with sweeping Pacific views. A tasting menu and à la carte options. Reservation required.
Are meals included in my stay?+
Meals at Sol Terrace are included when booking a Meals Included Package or any Wellness Program. For guests with a breakfast-only package, lunch and dinner are available at an additional charge at any of our three restaurants.
Guests staying in the Santosha Luxury Lofts may take breakfast at either Sol Terrace or La Diosa.
Guests staying in the Santosha Luxury Lofts may take breakfast at either Sol Terrace or La Diosa.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?+
Yes. Our culinary team specializes in anti-inflammatory, plant-forward cuisine and can accommodate most dietary needs and preferences. Please let us know your requirements when booking so we can prepare in advance.
Section Five
Wellness & Activities
What wellness activities are available each day?+
A rotating schedule of daily activities is offered across the property, including twice-daily yoga (7:00 AM and 4:00 PM), meditation, fitness classes, sound healing, art therapy, guided hikes, and more. The schedule rotates so each day of your stay offers something different. View the activities page.
Are activities included in my room rate?+
Daily wellness activities are included for guests staying in the Santosha Luxury Lofts or booked on a Wellness Program. For guests in other room types, activities may be available at an additional cost — please ask our team on arrival or when booking.
Should I book spa treatments in advance?+
Yes — we strongly recommend booking spa treatments before your arrival. Spots fill quickly, especially during peak periods. Contact the spa team at vidamia@theretreatcostarica.com or via WhatsApp at +506 8947 0707.
Is the spa open to outside visitors?+
Yes. Vida Mía Spa is available to day visitors by appointment, subject to availability. Restaurants and some facilities are also open to outside guests. Contact us to check availability for your preferred date.
Section Six
Payments & Gratuities
What currencies and payment methods do you accept?+
We accept US Dollars, traveler's checks, and all major credit cards.
How does tipping work at The Retreat?+
Gratuities are not included in any package price and are entirely at your discretion. For convenience, a gratuity form is provided at check-out so you can tip the full team at once via credit card rather than carrying cash throughout your stay.
Common guidelines:
General staff — approximately $25 per guest per day (pooled and shared among the team)
Spa therapists — 15–20% per treatment
Tour guides — approximately $20 per guide per excursion
Drivers — approximately $10 per excursion
You are always welcome to tip any team member directly for exceptional service at whatever amount feels right to you.
General staff — approximately $25 per guest per day (pooled and shared among the team)
Spa therapists — 15–20% per treatment
Tour guides — approximately $20 per guide per excursion
Drivers — approximately $10 per excursion
Section Seven
During Your Stay
Is the water safe to drink?+
Yes. The water at The Retreat is safe and delicious to drink. It is sourced from a crystal well on the property — giving it natural mineral qualities that many guests notice and love.
Is Wi-Fi available?+
Yes. Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Members and Santosha Loft guests receive complimentary Wi-Fi as part of their benefits.
How do I communicate with the Front Desk during my stay?+
We communicate with guests primarily through WhatsApp — it's the fastest and most convenient way to request services, ask questions, or coordinate activities. We recommend downloading WhatsApp before arrival if you don't already have it. The Front Desk is available from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, with staff available 24 hours for emergencies.
Is Costa Rica safe for travelers?+
Costa Rica is widely considered one of the safest countries in Central America for visitors. The Retreat offers private shuttle service to and from the airport and has 24/7 security on-site.
Are there insects on the property?+
Because the property is surrounded by nature, some insects are present — but rooms are designed to minimize exposure. Most guests find the natural setting to be one of the most peaceful and restorative aspects of the stay.
Does the staff speak English?+
Yes. Our front office team, yoga teachers, and spa therapists all speak English. Many team members are fully bilingual and are happy to assist in both English and Spanish throughout your stay.
Still Have
Questions?
Our team is happy to help with anything not covered here — from dietary requests and spa scheduling to transportation and program details. Reach out any time and we'll get back to you quickly.
WhatsApp+506 8947 0707
Toll Free1 833 760 4242 (USA & Canada)
HoursFront Desk: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM · 24/7 for emergencies