Hotel Review: L’Acqua Viva Resort & Spa, Nosara, Costa Rica

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L’Acqua Viva Resort and Spa is built on several levels on hillside overlooking the beaches of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, famous for near-perfect surfing conditions. The beaches are lively and surrounded by colourful bars and restaurants, but a biological reserve in front of the hotel means there is no direct access to the beaches and this off-the-beaten-track position means the resort guarantees solitude, peace and quiet.

The hotel has been designed with a Balinese–inspired style using natural materials and making the most of the light. With thatched roofs, bamboo, wicker and wood the buildings are made to blend into the landscape.

One finds L’Acqua Viva Resort & Spa at Guiones Beach, Nosara, on the Nicoya Peninsula in the province of Guanacaste.



From the capital San José, you can take a 45-minute flight from Juan Santamaria International Airport to Nosara airfield. From there, a transfer to the hotel by taxi takes about 5 minutes.

Who for

The peaceful location of the hotel attracts the likes of George Clooney and Leonardo DiCaprio but the resort also attracts couples and families from the UK, Europe and the USA.

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Rooms

There are 35 rooms ranging from Standard to Suites, Master Suites and a Presidential Suite. They are in structures on stilts set among the extensive gardens. The 16 standard rooms are set in a three-story building at one end of the property. Suites face internal gardens, while six Master Suites are located around the swimming pools. The high-ceilinged, airy rooms all have balconies, Indonesian furniture and bold contemporary artworks.

Food & Drink

The L’Acqua Viva restaurant in the main thatched roof building is open all day serving local and international dishes and looks out over the palm-fringed swimming pools. The sports bar which features an eye-catching bar inset with glass bottles serves cocktails, wine and local beers until 10 pm. You can also enjoy your drinks on the terrace.

Facilities

There are three pools and a Jacuzzi: two for adults and one for children. There is a spa and air-conditioned gym and yoga sessions are offered.

Local activities

The hotel is located 1.2 kilometres from the Playa Guiones beach, famous for surfing. The hotel is surrounded by an impressive tropical forest that belongs to the Nosara Civic Association; and is 15 minutes from the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, which is one of the few areas in Costa Rica where sea turtles lay their eggs.

Value for money

L’Acqua Viva provides four star standards at affordable prices.

Family friendly

Yes. Suites are available for families and children have their own pool.

Wi-Fi

Yes, it’s free and available in rooms and throughout the resort.

Rates

From £100 per night for a standard room.