Not a beach person? Don’t worry, Costa Rica has plenty of mountain retreats as well.

Peace and quiet, sometimes that’s all we need, a place where we can breathe fresh air, and listen to just the sounds of nature around us, the wind, the birds and the trees.

There are plenty of mountain hotels in Costa Rica, and although you can choose to go to beautiful destinations such as Monteverde or Rio Celeste you can also find some great options just a few minutes from San José.

Here are our top 3 suggestions:

1) Hotel Tirol: This hotel located in the mountains of Los Angeles de San Rafael de Heredia (about 30 minutes from the Juan Santamaría Airport) has been around for many years, it’s a small “chalet” style hotel, not luxurious but very cozy, it is also well known for its French fusion and international cuisine. Here you will enjoy wonderful views, average temperatures of 68°F and natural beauty all around.

2) Finca Rosa Blanca Country Inn: Finca Rosa Blanca is a coffee plantation resort, if you want a quiet, inspiring place but at the same time you need some kind of access to technology, and entertainment, you’ll find the perfect balance here. Just 20 minutes from Juan Santamaria Airport this hotel gives you the possibility to step out of your routine into a relaxing, stress-free environment and at the same time offers outdoor activities to keep you entertained

3) El Silencio Lodge: If you want a more luxurious experience are willing to take a longer drive (around 90 minutes from the airport), El Silencio Lodge is worth it, located in the mountains of Bajos del Toro, Alajuela, in a 500-acre private cloud forest reserve this hotel is breathtaking both inside and outside. Ideal for romantic getaways, but also perfect if you want to treat yourself to a few days of detox from the hectic everyday life.

There are plenty of other alternatives, from comfortable, warm cabins to luxurious resorts, it all depends on what style best suits you and how far you are willing to drive. Other alternatives are: Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel in San Ramon, Alajuela and Hotel Savegre in San Gerardo de Dota.