El Cacao, 750 mts Norte del Hotel Las Orquídeas, camino a San Pedro de Poas, Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica | 5 (062) 433-1668
Good location that feels rural without being too far from civilization
Beautiful pool overlooking green hillsides
Complete spa with exceptional amenities such as a hammam and various hydrotherapy treatments
Stylish, modern rooms
No room TVs or Internet (a pro for some)
Not much variety offered in restaurant
Not much within walking distance
No air-conditioning and no screens on windows (bugs get in)
The upper-middle-range Asclepios bills itself as a wellness center rather than a hotel, though it successfully incorporates elements of both. Located in the hills near the Central Valley town of Alajuela, it’s conveniently close to the airport but worlds away from the hustle and bustle of downtown San Jose. A full spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and organic restaurant all lie on spacious grounds amidst a lush landscape. Every one of its 12 comfortable and stylish rooms has a different theme, and all overlook hillsides planted with coffee and sugarcane. Guests looking for a spa retreat on comfortable grounds will find it here -- but there's not much else around the property.
