Eco-Adventure at Hotel y Mirador Bosque Alegre: A Hidden Gem Atop Costa Rica's Dormant Volcano

I recently discovered a true hidden gem in Costa Rica: Hotel y Mirador Bosque Alegre. Perched atop a dormant volcano, this remote eco-lodge offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while treading lightly on the environment.

A Journey to Remember

The adventure begins with the journey itself. Located far from the beaten path, Bosque Alegre requires a bit of effort to reach - but that's part of its charm. As I wound my way up the volcano, the bustling world below faded away, replaced by lush forests and breathtaking vistas. The final stretch of unpaved road served as a reminder that we were truly venturing into a pristine natural sanctuary.  While not required, I would recommend a 4-wheel vehicle for this trip as the road can get quite rough. 

Sustainability in the Clouds

I got a 'hut' on the edge of the volcano 

Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by how seamlessly the hotel blends into its surroundings. Built with locally-sourced materials and designed to minimize environmental impact, Bosque Alegre is a model of sustainable architecture. Solar panels provide much of the electricity, while a robust water conservation system ensures responsible use of this precious resource.

Interior of my room.  2 beds, full bathroom, and upstairs balcony

My room, a cozy cabin with panoramic windows, offered stunning views of the surrounding cloud forest. The absence of air conditioning was hardly noticeable thanks to the cool mountain air, and I found myself lulled to sleep each night by the gentle sounds of the forest.

Each hut had its own hammocks for relaxing

Exploring the Cloud Forest

Bosque Alegre serves as an ideal base for exploring the unique ecosystem of Costa Rica's cloud forests. Guided hikes through the property revealed an astonishing array of flora and fauna. Our knowledgeable local guide pointed out rare orchids, colorful bromeliads, and even a resplendent quetzal - a bucket list sighting for any birder.

Another activity is kayaking and swimming in the lake

One of the highlights was a night walk through the forest. Equipped with red-light headlamps to minimize disturbance to nocturnal creatures, we discovered a whole new world of activity. From tiny glass frogs to curious kinkajous, the nighttime forest came alive before our eyes.

Farm-to-Table Dining with a View

The restaurant views were out of this world

The dining area offered breathtaking views of the valley below and meals were a celebration of local, organic cuisine. Much of the produce comes from the hotel's own gardens, and what can't be grown on-site is sourced from nearby farms. I particularly enjoyed learning about traditional Costa Rican dishes and the indigenous ingredients that make them unique.

Giving Back to the Community

What impressed me most about Bosque Alegre was its commitment to the local community. The hotel employs staff from nearby villages, providing valuable economic opportunities in this remote region. Additionally, they support local schools and conservation efforts, ensuring that tourism benefits both the environment and the people who call this area home.

A Transformative Experience

The view of the volcano from the 2nd floor of my hotel room 

As I reluctantly prepared to leave Bosque Alegre, I reflected on how this remote eco-lodge had transformed my understanding of sustainable travel. It's not just about minimizing our impact; it's about creating positive change through thoughtful, community-centered tourism.

For eco-travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure that truly embodies the principles of sustainable tourism, Hotel y Mirador Bosque Alegre is a destination not to be missed. Here, atop a dormant volcano in Costa Rica, you'll find not just breathtaking views and accommodations, but a deeper connection to nature and a model for responsible travel.