Review of El Silencio Lodge, Bajos del Torro, Costa Rica

For nature lovers seeking peacefulness, but also appreciating fine accommodations and food:

The three of us (family with a teen) spent two days in this beautifully located hotel in the midst of the cloud forest. It is the perfect place for nature lovers looking for an eco luxury accommodation meaning you get very much in touch with nature (an eco-concierge is in charge for the courtesy mystic hike and other activities) and at the same time you live in one of the 16 scattered cottage suites which are luxurious although built in harmony with the environment. 



Apropos accommodation, I cannot leave it with this short description, the suites are really lovely. They convey the impression of a subdued luxury i.e. puristic and somewhat minimalist. There is a very comfortable king size bed from which you have a wonderful view to the surrounding nature and furthermore there are two sofas that can be used as two additional beds. The bathroom is huge, has two sinks, a large shower and also an (outdoor) jacuzzi which should once be used when it is dark because so you may experience a huge number of lightning bugs, what a sight! There is also a porch where you can enjoy the courtesy hot chocolate and cookies in the afternoon. A heater is also at your disposal which may be very handy as it can be quite cool once the sun has disappeared and when you return from dinner you will find a hot-water bottle in the bed, what a treat! 



When you stay at El Silencio Lodge, you are on full board and this is really something to rave of, the food is incredible! It can’t be said that it is a fancy gourmet cuisine but I best would describe it as authentic, healthy and prepared with ingredients either grown on-site or coming from local suppliers. Apart from vegetarian options there is only a choice among poultry, tilapia or trout but it doesn’t become boring because the preparation of these non-vegetarian options varies daily. I can’t point out appropriately enough how we estimated this kind of culinary experience and I would like to compliment the cook (Marcella) highly.

A stay at this hotel gives you the possibility to enjoy nature thoroughly as the property covers 500 acres of private cloud forest with several hiking paths. In addition, there is a yoga deck in the middle of the tropical forest. Moreover, there is also a spa at which we had a look but didn’t make use of it.

In sum, I would recommend this hotel for nature lovers who also appreciate fine accommodations and food. If you want to experience peacefulness and serenity, this is the place for you. I think that a stay of two or three days is sufficient and I wouldn’t go there if you are looking for a base from which to explore the near or farther environment as El Silencio Lodge is rather remotely situated and the roads to reach this place are very bad.

Date of stay: April 2012