Vista Alta Ecolodge Bahia Drake
Location: Península de Osa, Bahía Drake, Playa Cocalito. Playa Cocalito, Drake, cr
Star Rating: 9.8 Stars
Property Type: Hotels
About this Property
Breathtaking Nature Retreat
Spectacular Views: Enjoy stunning mountain and sea views from your room's balcony at Vista Alta Ecolodge.
Culinary Delights: Indulge in a variety of dining options, including American and Latin American cuisine, with special dietary requests catered to.
Adventure Awaits: Embark on exciting outdoor activities like hiking and beach exploration during your stay in Drake.
Experience the beauty of Vista Alta Ecolodge - book your nature retreat now!
Important Information
Please inform of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.
Policies
Check-in: 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Amenities & Facilities
- Guest education on local ecosystems and culture
- Non-smoking rooms
- Restaurant
- Terrace
- Family rooms
- BBQ facilities
- Tour desk
- Massage services
- Packed lunches
- Currency exchange
- Shared lounge/TV area
- Board games/puzzles
- Shuttle service (additional charge)
- Kid meals
- Public Bath
- Coffee Shop on site
- Staff adhere to local safety protocols
- Guest rooms disinfected between stays
- Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
- Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
- Cashless payment available
- Fire extinguishers
- First aid kit available
- Sanitized tableware & silverware
- Contactless check-in/check-out
- Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
- Food delivered to guest room
- CCTV outside property
- Access to health care professionals
- 24-hour security
- Delivered food - securely covered
- Pub crawls
- Cooking class
- Television in common areas
- Free wired internet
- Snack bar/deli
- Scuba diving on site
- Snorkeling on site
- Airport transportation - pickup (surcharge)
- Airport transportation - drop-off (surcharge)
- Beach umbrellas
- Private beach nearby
- Internet access
- Housekeeping on request
- Private picnics
- Wine release events
- Japanese garden
- Fishing nearby
- Horse riding nearby
- Beach club nearby (surcharge)
- Hosted evening meal (reserve)
- Beach toys
- Guest education on local ecosystems and culture
- Vegetarian menu options available
- Accessible shuttle
- No accessible shuttle
- Accessible train station shuttle
- No accessible train station shuttle
Rooms Available
-
Standard Triple Room with Sea View
The triple room includes a private bathroom fitted with a bath or a shower. Guests can make the most of a terrace and sea views. The unit has 2 beds.
Max Occupancy: 3 (3 Adults)
- Fan
- Private bathroom
- Dining area
- Mosquito net
- Terrace
- Linen
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Board games/puzzles
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Hand sanitiser
-
Quadruple Room with Mountain View
The quadruple room includes a private bathroom equipped with a bath or a shower. Guests can benefit from a terrace and a patio. The unit offers 3 beds.
Max Occupancy: 6 (4 Adults)
- Fan
- Private bathroom
- Dining area
- Mosquito net
- Terrace
- Linen
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Hand sanitiser
-
Quadruple Room with Sea View
The quadruple room includes a private bathroom fitted with a bath or a shower. Guests can make the most of a terrace and sea views. The unit has 2 beds.
Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)
- Fan
- Private bathroom
- Dining area
- Terrace
- Linen
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Books, DVDs, or music for children
- Hand sanitiser
Guest Reviews
- Vivien (10/5): Paradise! - Peggy and Rony are the kindest hosts who share this wonderful piece of Eden with us. Away from the crowds, totally surrounded by nature with views of the sea, this is the best place to disconnect. Peggy will help you to book the parking, boat, tours etc. Rony will come greet you at the beach with a warm welcome and help you with luggage up the steps (but pack just enough for your stay and leave heavy luggage behind!)
- Brooke (10/5): Thanks Peggy and Ronny! - We absolutely loved our stay thanks to Peggy and Ronny, who are genuinely warm and welcoming hosts. They were always cheerful and eager to help, organizing our tours and boat transfers seamlessly. Peggy is an exceptional cook—the meals were fresh, nourishing, and surprisingly high-quality given the remote location. The lodge itself has a stunning beachfront and incredible views, and we even spotted plenty of wildlife right from the property. We loved everything about the lodge, but it may not suit everyone. It’s quite remote—you’ll need to arrive by boat or walk about 30 minutes from Agujitas. There’s also a fairly steep uphill hike to reach the lodge, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. Additionally, the humidity is consistently high, so it could be uncomfortable if you don’t handle heat well.
- Guillaume (10/5): - Les hôtes au petit soin du début à la fin
Les repas complets et très bons
Le lieu bien-sûr loin du monde , un petit paradis que vous ne regretterez pas entre forêts vierges, paresseux, singes et plages desertes
- ISABELLE (10/5): Une bouffée d oxygène en communion avec la nature - Les hôtes Rony et Peggy sont des personnes sont des amours
Nous avons jamais mangé aussi bien sûr l ensemble d un séjour
Le cadre est magnifique
Nous avons vu plus d animaux sur place que dans le parc avec guide
Nous venons à peine de partir que rony et Peggy nous manquent déjà
C était un petit paradis avec une vue incroyable des hôtes en or
Nous avons oublié notre quotidien et n avions plus envie de partir Tout était parfait
On reviendrait avec plaisir
- Franziska (10/5): - Die Gastgeber Peggy und Ronny sind sehr herzlich und zuvorkommend. Das Essen war vorzüglich. Es gibt sowohl zum Frühstück und auch zum Lunch und Dinner zwei bis drei unterschiedliche Essen zur Auswahl. Alles wird frisch zubereitet.
Die Bungalows selbst sind sehr einfach in der Ausstattung, aber alles ist sehr sauber und mit viel Liebe zum Detail eingerichtet. Das kalte Wasser aus der Dusche ist angesichts der warmen Temperaturen aber kein Problem.
Man ist fernab von der Zivilisation und kann wirklich sehr gut entspannen. Man kann auf dem Gelände der Lodge einige Tiere (Kolibri, Nasenbär, Aguti, mit Glück auch ein Tapir) beobachten. Es gibt gar nichts zu beanstanden.
Nur einen Hinweis für die gehbehinderte Besucher.
Man muss sich darüber klar sein, dass die Lodge auf einem kleinen Berg liegt und man über mehrere unebene Treppen steigen muss. Bei der Anreise mit dem Boot steigt man am Strand ohne Steg aus. Das heißt zwangsläufig nasse Füße. Badeschuhe sind ggf. angebracht. Es muss einem klar sein, dass man bei jedem Ausflug in den Nationalpark oder zum Schnorcheln mit dem Boot abgeholt wird. Heißt also alle Treppen herab und dann über den Strand ins Boot. Wir hatten unsere Mutter Mitte 70 mit. Nach ersten kleinen Schwierigkeiten hat aber auch sie diese Prozedere sehr gut bewältigt. Wer aber gehbehindert ist, sollte sich dies gut überlegen.
- Gregor (10/5): The best holiday stay in all of Costa Rica! - Vista Alta is one of the most beautiful places we have ever stayed at on this planet! You are surrounded by jungle, and wildlife, with an easy walk down to a beautiful secluded beach. The owners are the friendliest people you’ll meet, and they treat you like family. We had all our meals at the lodge, and the food was simply amazing, better than any fancy restaurant in the city. It is a wonderful walk to town along a jungle path, or, if you prefer, it’s a longer half day trip to beautiful beaches if you go the other way along the coastal path in front of the property. Our family slept soundly, and were greeted with the sounds of monkeys and birds in the morning. Simply wonderful! Nothing, it was a perfect vacation!
- Leo (10/5): -
- jerome (10/5): - Nous avons adoré l accueil comme à la maison
Merci encore à Peggy et Ronny qui sont trop gentils.
Les bons petits plats
L environnement est incroyable : nous nous sommes sentis comme des Robinson avec une plage en bas presque privée et les logements se trouvent au milieu d un domaine arboré avec plein d oiseaux.
Point fort: les propriétaires s occupent de relever votre transports et vos sorties a corcovado et isla del cano a faire absolument ( requins et tortues)
Génial !
- Marc (9/5): -
- Jana (10/5): - Die Gastgeber waren super, sehr hilfsbereit und freundlich. Sie haben sehr bei der Organisation der Ausflüge geholfen . Das Abendessen bestand aus drei Gängen und war superlecker. Die Lage war traumhaft - mitten im Regenwald. Wir haben bei einer Tasse Kaffee dem Faultier zugeschaut und auf dem Weg zum Strand Brüllaffen und Nasenbären getroffen. Die Badebucht war toll, wir waren fast immer allein. Eine Lampe auf unserer Terrasse wäre gut gewesen los
- Lisa (10/5): Peggy and Ronnie have created paradise. It’s an absolute must. - Peggy and Ronnie are an absolute delight. They went above and beyond to make our stay delightful. The surroundings are gorgeous and magical. You are in the jungle and able to observe all the delights, the sounds and sights are amazing. As for Peggy and Ronnie they are a delight. Nothing was too much trouble. They are amazing chefs. We eat the best red snapper of our trip. Staying here met all my dreams of being in Costa Rica. This experience isn't to be missed and I will return. Thank you both
- STUART (10/5): Amazing care and attention - An absolute gem of a place. Set on the hillside over the beach with simple, but clean cabanas. Where Ecolodge excels is the amazing personal service. The owner carried our bags up from the beach. Together the couple provide excellent breakfasts dinner and daytime drinks all served with smiles and genuine care for guests. Local tours start early and breakfast will be served at any hour you require. Access is by boat and there is also a beautiful 45 minute trail to Bahia Drake village.
- Desiree (10/5): Das war genau meins :) - Die Gastlichkeit und Herzlichkeit von Peggy und Ronny sind nicht zu übertreffen. Besonders gut fanden wir die gemeinsamen Essen mit den anderen Gästen an einem Tisch. Es war immer frisch zubereitet und sehr lecker.
Da die Zimmer nur Insektengitter haben hat man nachts die Dschungelgeräusche gehört, ich fands toll!
Die besagten Stufen haben uns nichts ausgemacht und der Wanderweg zur Lodge ist einfach schön. Die Kommunikation bezüglich Parkplatz war für uns nicht ausreichen bzw. kam zu spät.
Trotz Standortdaten, war es für uns fragwürdig, ob wir richtig sind. Ein ergänzendes Bild wäre hilfreich gewesen.
- Katharina (10/5): - Die Unterkunft ist sehr einfach. Nur kaltes Wasser in der Dusche, kein WLAN im Zimmer, keine Klimaanlage, nur Fliegengitter als Fenster. Dafür aber auf einem kleinen Hügel direkt am Meer. Man kann mit den Jungelgeräuschen und dem Meeresrauschen sehr gut schlafen. Wir haben direkt an der Unterkunft Brüllaffen, Kapuzineraffen, Aras, Agutis und weitere Tiere gesehen. Das besondere an der Unterkunft sind die Menschen. Ronny und Peggy sind sehr liebenswerte Menschen, die uns bei der Planung mit den Touren und dem Transport sehr unterstützt haben. Die Unterkunft ist wie oben beschrieben sehr einfach.
- Stefan (8/5): - Very qiet place in the jingle with wonderful jungle slound. Delicious food and very helpful staff.
Better to pay cash as otherwise food and drinks are subject to 13% taxes. Second coffe or tea or more yogurt for breakfast is additional cost, of which we were not informed. A kajak for two persons costs 2x USD 30. Better ask what costs in addition.
- Christian (10/5): - Sehr schönes Erlebnis, Anreise wie mit den Besitzern abgesprochen mit dem Auto nach Sierpe, per Boot für 20$ pro Person Cash mit 20 weiteren Leuten die verteilt wurden 1 Stunde entlang des Flusses und ein Stück an der Küste entlang zum Strand, dann wurde uns geholfen unser reduziertes Gepäck die gut 100 Stufen zum kleinen Haus der Familie wo die Mahlzeiten serviert werden hinaufzutragen. Von dort nochmals 100 Stufen zu unserer Hütte auf dem Berg. Sehr schön gelegen mit viel Besuch von Vögeln, Kolibris und Fledermäusen. Preise für die Mahlzeiten waren angemessen. da nirgendwo stand was die Mahlzeiten kosten und wir am Ende unserer Urlaubsreise nicht mehr unenedlich viel Bargeld dabei hatten waren wir etwas nervös, als Backup war eine KArtenzahlung gegen Aufpreis wegen der hohen Gebühren aber möglich .
- Carsten (10/5): - Peggy und Ronny sind tolle Menschen, das Haus ist in einer tollen Lage. Ein bisschen Robinson Crusoe... Die Anfahrt aus Drake war richtig schön und aufregend. Wir haben eine private Anfahrt gewählt, sehr viel teurer als das Taxi Boot, aber dafür entsprechend individueller, da es kleinere Boote sind und wir einen Abstecher zu den Tieren und Fauna machen konnten. Infrastruktur am Haus ist steil und anstrengend, keinen Koffer mitbringen, sondern nur Rucksäcke mit Dingen die man für den Aufenthalt braucht.
- Brigitte (10/5): - Einfache Unterkunft, wunderschöne Lage, einzigartige familiäre Atmosphäre
- Stephen (10/5): Amazing and friendly Lodge in a beautiful location. - Absolutely amazing lodge. Location sympathetic to the environment. Within walking distance to Drake Bay. Stunning beach at the entrance. Peggy and Ronny are the highlights of the property, the most welcoming people we have ever stayed with. Nothing too much trouble they epitomise the Tico mentality. They really looked after us, with home cooked meals and anything else we needed.
With such great hosts the guests all dined together and all shared stories. Can’t thank them enough for a chilled out break in a Beautiful location.
- Javier (10/5): Expérience extraordinaire au milieu d'une nature exhuberante - Nous avons aimé la beauté des lieux, l'accueil chaleureux de Peggy, Ronny (et leur fils Jorge), la délicieuse nourriture, tous les animaux que nous avions pu observer dès notre chambre (singes, toucans, colibris, pizotes, pavas, agoutis...), l'accès à une plage isolée presque privée... Nous avons tout aimé !
- Andrea (1/5): Betrug und Abzocke, gefährliche Inhaber - Nichts In der Beschreibung steht am Strand. Das Hotel ist in den Bergen und über 250m steilen Waldpfad zu erreichen. Mit Gepäck nicht machbar. Wenn man gehen möchte wird man bedroht, genötigt und erpresst zu Bezahlen obwohl kostenlose Stornierung möglich ist.
- Anthony (10/5): Alta Vista = Pura Vida - Peggy & Ronny sont vraiment des hôtes incroyables. Grâce à eux, nous avons passé un séjour magnifique. Ils nous ont conseillés pour nos visites, nous ont aidés à planifier la suite de notre voyage, leur cuisine est excellente.
Lieu idéal, perdu dans la jungle avec accès à une plage quasi privée.
Pura vida assurée ! Rien
- Prescillia (10/5): Excellents hôtes et emplacement - L'emplacement, le cadre, les hôtes sont d'une incroyable gentillesse, la nourriture est très bonne Rien
- Martin (9/5): - Situé en pleine forêt, le lodge est un havre de paix et de nature, idéal pour se ressourcer. Nos hôtes Rooney et Peggy ont été aux petits soins tout le séjour, merci!
- Michael (10/5): A little bit of paradise on the Osa Peninsula! - An amazing place to stay - from location to opportunities but most of all the hospitality of the owners Ronny and Peggy are what makes this place special. The rooms are everything you need: simple beds, a fan, screened windows, cold water shower and a lovely hammock on the deck. The meals are delicious at baseline, but they went above and beyond to serve our family whole fish one night when we asked. In addition, the tours they arranged for us were excellent - picking us up from the beach right in front for snorkeling and Corcovado and providing rubber boots and local guides for a night bug walk and horseback riding. They even arranged for transportation from the airport to the beach in Drake ($40 for the family) and the boat to the beach in front of their place ($30). The location is about 30-35 min walk along a path from Drake, which makes their offer of dinner at the lodge all the more appealing. If you are looking to get away to relax and explore, this is an excellent place to do it! Disliked · Nothing. There are a lot of steps up from the beach to the place as noted in other reviews, but this was expected and Ronny offered to help carry luggage and met us at the beach each time.
- GERARD (10/5): Excellent séjour, une impression de Robinson - Très belle situation, en hauteur et à l'écart de Drake Bay. Une expérience d'hébergement simple et dépouillé mais confortable e, communion avec la nature environnante. Excellent accueil de Peggy et Rony qui ont tout fait pour rendre notre séjour agréable, notamment par des petits déjeuners et repas attentionnés. il faut mériter cet hébergement, accès par bateau et il faut grimper pas mal de marches, mais Rony et son fils nous ont parfaitement aidés et rendu le séjour facile et agréable.
- Kurt (8/5): großartige Umgebung, Natur, Tiere , Vögel, schöner und ruhiger kleiner Strand - Essen war gut, nette Gastgeber kein warmes Wasser in der Dusche
- Caitriona (10/5): - We had a wonderful stay here! Ronny and Peggy made us feel so welcome, helped us organise our transfers and tours, and the food was delicious! The location is fantastic, in the jungle (we loved spotting toucans, monkeys and macaws from our hammock), walkable to Drake Bay during the day but with a beautiful, quiet beach just below the lodge (which tours and transfers were able to pick us up/drop us too). I will treasure memories of staying here and hope to return someday! Part of the magic is staying close to nature, so while everything was very clean and great for us, it it important to consider before booking if you will be comfortable with eg having a fan, not aircon (it was fine even in the heat!), no hot showers, and consider if you can manage the steps there are up to all the rooms (which can get slippy so bring more than flip flops.)
- Gast (8/5): -
- Charlotta (10/5): Great jungle experience - The view was very nice and the place is surrounded by nature. There’s a nearly private beach.
Peggy and Ronny welcome you warmly and make a big effort to make you enjoy your stay
- Martin (10/5): Excellent in all means - I usually don’t submit reviews unless is absolutely exceptional or complete disaster.
Vista Alta Ecolodge clearly falls in the first category. It has a very nice location and surroundings. You can listen to sounds of jungle as well as crashing waves of Pacific.
There is another esence that makes it truly exceptional, Rony and Peggy. They will take care of you as you would be a family member. They make a real difference and take it to another level.
It had everything I needed:
- Tranquility and close touch with nature as it’s outside of the town (30-40 minutes walk)
- Easy access to Drake Bay Trail for exploring area
- Easy access to nearby beaches for an afternoon dip and exercise
- Possibility to join tours / activities right from the beach below the property
- Hammocks :) Food was way to good not to eat all :)
- Lukas (10/5): Toller Ort, um die Natur zu erleben und auszuspannen. - Die Gastgeber waren absolut spitze!! Haben uns fein bekocht und waren sehr zuvorkommend und hilfsbereit und haben zB. Touren für uns organisiert. Die persönliche Atmosphäre haben wir geschätzt! Es ist ein besonderer Ort im Regenwald, Wildtiere kommen vorbei, der Strand ist wunderschön -
- Simon (10/5): - Peggy en Rony zijn super lieve en vriendelijke mensen die je het echt naar je zin doen hebben. De Lodge bevindt zich iets buiten Drake bay waardoor je echt midden in de natuur zit. We werden dan ook dagelijks verrast door de vele dieren. Ze zorgen zelf steeds voor het vervoer van en naar hun privéstrand, waar het leuk zwemmen is!
Het eten dat Peggy bereidt is zeer lekker. Eerder een miscommunicatie maar we hadden de prijs gevraagd voor het avondeten en vonden deze al aan de hoge kant. Achteraf bleek dat hier nog servicekosten en taxen bijkwamen waardoor de prijs nog een pak hoger werd. Ook bij dranken was er nergens een prijslijst te vinden. Transparantie wat prijzen betreft kan volgens ons wel beter.
- Helga (10/5): - Everything- beautiful place with wonderful hosts. As everyone else has mentioned, Peggy makes excellent food and Rony is very attentive to everyone as well. Would definitely recommend and come back if ever in the area again
- Andy (9/5): Fantastic location, with hosts who cannot do enough for you - From the moment we got dropped off on the beach we knew we had arrived somewhere special. It was an adventure getting there by boat! A lovely (although tiring!) walk up through the forest into the garden where Peggy welcomed us with a refreshing glass of lemonade in the communal area. There are just 4 cabins so it's very peaceful. Our cabin was big, 2 double beds and bunk beds, it's basic; wooden with a tin roof but we were expecting that. We were worried we might be too hot at night but there was a fan on the wall and that kept a breeze going so it was absolutely fine. We had a lovely veranda outside with a couple of hammocks which were very relaxing to lie in (on the rare occasion our girls weren't in them!). One morning when we went outside there were 2 faces staring back at us...spider monkeys! In the tree right outside our cabin! We spent ages just watching them find leaves to eat. We also saw toucans, wild turkeys, pelicans, agoutis and a pair of nesting red macaws at the beach which were magnificent to see in flight. Ronnie and Peggy are the loveliest hosts you are ever likely to meet. So friendly and helpful, nothing is too much trouble for them and they make you feel like you are part of their family in their home. The food is delicious and all cooked and served by them both. They work tirelessly! It really felt like a slice of paradise, it is just the most beautiful tranquil place and it felt like a privilege to stay there. Muchas Gracias Ronnie y Peggy. Pura Vida!
- Armando (9/5): Excellent experience off the grid - Peggy and Rony were excellent The steps
- Phil (10/5): This is the most magical place to stay in a beautiful remote setting and Rony and Peggy are the best - The whole place is magical. Rony and Peggy create a warm and tranquil atmosphere. They can’t do enough for you and are happy to sort out trips and transport. The food Peggy makes is the best we had in Costa Rica. The setting is stunning with beautiful wildlife and plants. The beach is lush. Nothing for us, but be warned the steps to the lodge and the rooms are steep.
- Chrissie (10/5): Exceptional - Exceptional! Roni and Peggy were the perfect hosts - kind, generous and thoughtful. The accommodation is quiet and peaceful and surrounded by nature. There are lots of animals and birds, and only a few steps from the beautiful beach. The food is all home cooked by Peggy and is absolutely delicious. The free breakfast was amazing, overlooking the ocean. We loved the hammocks on the veranda of the little cottage. This was the best place we stayed in Costa Rica by far. Nothing
- Caterina (10/5): As if it is in heaven - It is a corner of paradise in the rain forest the most incredibile animals. The owners are extremely nice and the food amazing. If you like an unique experience this is the right place!
- Alison (10/5): Pura Vida - If you are looking for a sterile chain hotel this is not for you. If you are looking for fantastic hosts ( Peggy and Ronny), warmth and charm this is the place for you.
From the moment I booked, Peggy organised my collection from the airport and all the activities I wished to do in Drake Bay. I loved my stay in the National Park, my horse ride along the coast with Marvin ( it was a privilege to have lunch with his family) and the night walk searching for the tree frogs wearing the Wellington boots lent to me by Peggy. From your initial arrival by boat and wading onto the beach. The climb up is steep ( so travel light!)but worth it for the view. Lying in your hammock watching the monkeys and Tucans.
Drake bay is a 45 minute beautiful coastal walk so for my evening meal I enjoyed Peggy’s cooking.
Pura Vida.
- Adam (10/5): Amazing remote eco stay - We were treated like family, and we enjoyed every moment! Amazing remote location next to the trail in Drakes Bay.The owners cook every day for you (best cevice we had in CR) Highly recommended!
- Sandra (10/5): Truly a highlight of my journey!!! - From pre-arrival, during my stay and through departure onwards, Ronny’s communications guided me, a solo traveler, in navigating to this amazing place in the rainforest high above the sea and a gorgeous beach.
Peggy and Ronny are very caring people, and work together seamlessly in graciously hosting and feeding guests. I ate some of the Best meals there, presented like delicate works of art with complexity and diversity of flavors.
This was a taste of paradise, beautiful cultivated areas in the midst of wildness, animals and birds wandering through. I saw many animals with a guided walk in the National Park, but I saw some up close, eye to eye on the slopes between kitchen and my cabina, very special to have that intimate connection.
The many steps up to the lodge are a workout and also contribute to the experience of remoteness. Ronny met me at the beach on arrival and carried my too-heavy bag up, and later, down. I found a hiking pole to be beneficial in navigating the steepness and irregularities, especially at night. No fears, Ronny has a collection of natural hiking sticks.
Vista Alta was truly a highlight of my month long journey in Costa Rica. Seeing my last sunset there was a tearful moment for me. All good
- Lauren (9/5): A truly unique stay in a beautiful, secluded location with the warmest hosts. - Everything! Ronnie and Peggy were amazing; so warm, welcoming and excellent hosts. They were incredibly thoughtful which made for one of the most personable stays we’ve had. They couldn’t do enough for us - organising tours, carrying bags and so much information - it felt like home away from home. We loved the routine of breakfast and dinner, and choosing from a homemade menu that changes daily. It is the most gorgeous location - secluded and private with your own beach. The perfect place to relax and slow down alongside the wildlife. Nothing - some might say it’s secluded but that was very much a benefit for us. It is surrounded by lots of wildlife and you could feel their presence, but that was part of the experience.
- Zoe (9/5): Wonderfully welcoming hosts, fantastic food, delicious smoothies, abundant wildlife - What a wonderful welcome from Rony at the beach! Lovely room with a hammock outside, a toucan in a nearby tree, spider monkeys along the route into town, great food from Rony and his wife, and smoothies Only downside is how easily you can hear the guests if you're in a cabin adjoining another but some cabins are on their own. I put ear plugs in and used my noise cancelling headphones.
- Susan (9/5): Lovely hosts, lovely property. - The location is beautiful, very close to Cocolito Beach, high up in the jungle above the beach. Peggy and Ronnie are wonderful hosts, very responsive and helpful and great cooks. They carried our luggage up many steps and made us delicious breakfasts and dinners. They also arranged transportation from Sierpe and tours to Corcovado National Park and Cano Island Marine Park. There are many birds and wild animals on the property. Too many steps up to the reception area and rooms for older travelers with knee, back and stability issues. It is further to the town of Drake Bay than we thought and not a trail you would want to walk after dinner in town when it is dark unless you bring good flashlights and sturdy walking shoes.
- Karin (10/5): Fantastic off the beaten track experience - Best hosts ever: hospitality award for Peggy and Rony!
Fantastic location: off the beaten track (45min anazing hike to Drake Bay); amazing view and we had a great sunset swim at Cocalito beach.
Many animals, amazing home-cooked food and super support with anything you want to organise. Nothing! But like said: dont expect luxery: when you prefer nature and a unique experience go here!
- Simon (10/5): Exceptional - The great thing about Vista Alta is the remoteness of the property. You can only access by boat or by footpath from Drake Bay. The lodges are right in the middle of the rainforest with so much wildlife around to see. Ronnie and Peggy are excellent hosts and served up some of the best food we’ve had in Costa Rica.
We would definitely stay again. We didn’t have any dislikes as such, but the lodges are quite basic. If you require fluffy towels and air conditioning then Vista Alta may not be for you.
- Thomas (10/5): Exceptional - We spent 4 amazing days at this place.
The location just outside of Drake Bay is perfect. Peggy and Ronny are the best hosts you can imagine. They take care of everything you need, help to organise trips, and are amazing chefs. The property is quiet, clean, comfortable, and the views of the jungle and the sea are gorgeous. All in all, it is highly recommended!!!
- Andrea (10/5): Fantastic stay with lovely people - Fantastic views and great wildlife in the property
Peggy and Ronny were so hospitable, and all the food was plentiful and delicious with different choices every day
They also booked our ferry, parking in Sierpe and the trips for us All excellent
The property is up many steps in the heat, which for us was no problem
- Robert (10/5): Exceptional - Peggy and Rony make this place very special! The delicious meals and gracious service are exceptional! They do all they can to make your stay memorable.
- Lucy (10/5): Like landing in a small paradise. - The family who manage this lodge do an amazing job - they are super-friendly and helpful, and serve great food which is locally sourced.
- Michael (10/5): Exceptional - Great location right outside Bahia Drake. Beautiful property beautiful beach and beautiful hosts.
- Eric (9/5): Excellent place, remote, a real expérience’n - Beautiful location in the rainforest. Colibris right in front of you at breakfast. Individual cabins are basic but functional. The real treat is the kindness of the couple running the place Peggy and Rony. Very helpful arranging the activities. And great cooks. The food is excellent here. No internet in the cabins. Shower with hardly any debit.
- Elena (10/5): Best place in the area for nature lovers - This is a uniquely beautiful place for those who want to stay close to nature. It’s accessible by boat or a short hike through the forest. The rooms are simple but cozy, with incredible views from the terrace, we spotted many birds. Some animals even come close to the house. The food the hosts cook is a highlight, and they are wonderful people. We were sad to leave and will truly miss this place. We liked everything, but the place is not for those looking for a luxury stay with modern hot showers and A/C
- Axel (10/5): Exceptional - That was an unbelievable experience. Arriving with the boat at a small beautiful beach and then going up the stairs through rain forest to the lodge. Up there you have a fine view through the tree tops down to the Pacific ocean. The couple running the lodge does many things for you including cooking and serving tasty breakfast or dinner. They are really nice and we felt immediately like arriving at the family.
- Kirsten (10/5): Extraordinary family vacation - Amazing experience in large part due to the owners, Ronnie and Peggy. They are such thoughtful hosts, who really go above and beyond to ensure your stay is as wonderful as you hope it will be. My teen and tween LOVED the food and were delighted to have french fries one day. The meals are extraordinary! All my picky eaters were magically not picky and ate everything offered. We ate all meals there, except for the lunch we ate at Sirena station. The guides and excursions they schedule for you are fabulous....monkeys, sloths, baby monkeys, baby sloths, scarlet macaws, toucans, crabs, snakes, and so much more! Internet was fine and I personally appreciated that it didn't reach our cabin. It gave us a device break. My son happily sat under the mango tree where the wifi was strong and completed his homework. If we weren't off adventuring, we were blissfully floating in the warm ocean water. Thank you for the memories! It's hot. But that's to be expected.
- Vincent (10/5): Stay here. You won't regret it!!! - Was there with 4 people for 4 days. We absolutely loved it at this hotel. Peggy and Rony were amazing. They cooked absolutely delicious meals for us. They were both more than friendly and accommodating for anything we needed. The rooms were spacious and very comfortable. We did some day trips that were amazing. I highly recommend staying at this hotel. The only downside was the hike up the hill to the hotel. Don't over pack. Though Rony did carry the girls luggage up the hill, which was amazing in itself. But there"s a bench halfway up for resting.
- Francesca (9/5): Superb - The location is unbeatable with a beautiful beach few steps away
- Thomas (10/5): Between the beautiful views all around and the kindness of the hosts, Vista Alta is the best! - Ronny and Peggy were the kindest hosts we could have hoped for. They made us feel truly in paradise with their homecooked meals and helping us book activities. If you're looking for a beautiful place surrounded by nature and off the beaten path, this is it! Nothing! You should know that the cabins don't have A/C and it can get quite hot, but that's what you sign up for when you stay in the middle of the jungle.
- Fred (10/5): Perfect - Peggy and Rony were so attentive, caring, and just awesome people which made this stay special. Was really unique having owners as involved with such positive vibes.
The place itself is beautifully rustic and secluded. Got visits from white faced monkeys, and we snorkeled right from the private beach. Easy pick up from their place for tours. Meals were super delicious. Nothing, was exactly what we were looking for.
- Doriene (9/5): Magnificent! - The food prepared by the host was a highlight of our trip, the couple running the ecolodge is super sweet and really go the extra mile to make you feel at home and comfortable.
The view is absolutely stunning and you are very close to a private beach.
The house is lovely, especially with the hammocks with a view at the ocean, but it’s also quite open so you won’t be alone at night. Bring spray! 🦟😅
- Daniel (10/5): A Magical Experience - There can't be many better locations than this in Costa Rica, absolutely stunning nature all around us.
But its real asset is the couple that run it. Warm, welcoming and helpful throughout. Thanks for providing my children with a memory that will last for years to come. Everything was great, no complaints at all. Of course this is an eco lodge in a protected, largely inaccessible area, so one should not expect luxury in the cabins themselves, but the excellent home cooked meals more than made up for that
- Andrea (10/5): Amazing - The hotel is located in an exceptionally beautiful setting, and Rony and Peggy the owners really go above and beyond to give you a comforting and pleasant experience during your stay. Muchisimas gracias!
- Paula (10/5): Was so beautiful from start to finish. A few surprises, things we didn't expect, but made it special - The breakfasts were fresh and amazing and Ronny and Peggy and Gorje provided excellent service and were so friendly and welcoming. The food was local and fresh and tasted terrific. Not a thing! It was an amazing experience and our hosts were so hospital and worked so hard to make sure our stay was exceptional.
- Katie (10/5): Exceptional -
- Shea (10/5): The best place to stay in Drake Bay!! - We couldn't have asked for a better place to stay in Drake Bay- Vista Alta Ecolodge is truly exceptional! The setting was gorgeous, fully immersed in the primary forest. The views of the ocean through the tall trees were amazing and all sorts of wildlife can be spotted right at the property. The location is perfect; right off the lush hiking trail that follows along the coast, a 40 minute easy hike to town and near a series of gorgeous beaches. As all the other reviews have stated, Peggy and Rony are incredibly kind, welcoming hosts that made us feel right at home. They'll help arrange tours, transportation and will give you any tips needed to make the most of your stay. Their food was delicious, the best in the area- the nightly dinners at the lodge were all wonderful, as was the company. We will absolutely be coming back to Vista Alta next time we're in Drake Bay!! It was perfect!
- Vasilis (10/5): Exceptional -
- Chris (10/5): Exceptional -
- Diana (10/5): I would highly recommend Vista Alta Lodge. Beautiful spot with beautiful people! - Peggy and Ronny are amazing hosts! They went out of their way to make our stay comfortable. The surroundings are idyllic, steps above the Cocovado trail. I only wish we could have stayed longer. We found vegetarian eating challenging throughout Costa Rica. The fish dinner I had was delicious; the vegetarian uninspired. There is a substantial staircase up to the lodge, which could be a challenge for people who have mobility or fitness issues
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