Hotel Quelitales

I came here to get lost in the cloud forest, unwind and watch birds, and it was exactly right. The place has a charming rustic feel with modern comforts, and the food was fantastic. I didn’t need to leave during my stay. I joined two private birdwatching tours on site, and there was plenty of information about tours and activities elsewhere, too. The staff were warm, helpful and attentive to all the little things. Jose, everyone made the experience amazing from beginning to end. The owner’s background as a chef really showed in the food, which was bar-none. On Christmas Day my rental car had a problem, but they arranged transport even though it was a holiday. My birthday is also on Christmas, and they surprised me with a cake and sang happy birthday in both Spanish and English. It was a touching moment, and it makes me want to come back. Until next time, Hotel Quelitales. Gracias!

What stayed with me most was the owner, Jose, and his wonderful staff. Their care for guests and Jose’s commitment to living in harmony with the surrounding nature made this lodge special. I left wanting to return as soon as I could, more than I have after any other place. The cabins are comfortable, though not opulent, and the grounds are beautiful and carefully kept. Fruit feeders and landscaping bring in birds and other wildlife, though I’ve seen more extensive setups at other lodges. There are also nature trails on the property and nearby for seeing local wildlife. For me, this is probably the best nature lodge I’ve experienced in Costa Rica.

We didn’t want to leave the property, partly because the food was so good that we ate every meal at the hotel restaurant. The gardens and hotel felt like a sanctuary, and the staff were friendly and quick to help. Owner Jose Alvarez greeted us when we arrived and became my BBF, birding best friend. He spent lots of time teaching me about local birds and made my husband, friends and me feel special. It was amazing, and I hope I can return someday.

The staff were all warm, friendly and helpful, and the coffee was excellent. I loved the food, especially the gallo pinto, which might have been my favorite in Costa Rica. The gardens and trails are gorgeous and give you great chances to spot sunbittern, scaled antpitta, green-fronted lancebill and plenty of other species. A wonderful place to stay and go birding!