Nayara Springs

Nayara Springs is an adults-only retreat located in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, renowned for its immersive rainforest setting and exceptional hospitality. The property is distinguished by its private villas, each featuring a plunge pool fed by natural mineral hot springs, and a commitment to sustainability and wildlife preservation. Guests encounter a blend of Costa Rican warmth and international sophistication, with a culinary program led by a chef trained under Michelin-starred mentors and a spa acclaimed as the best hotel spa in the world. The hotel’s dedication to local culture, environmental stewardship, and guest experience has earned it numerous accolades, including the prestigious MICHELIN Guide Three Keys award and consistently outstanding guest ratings across major platforms.

Nayara Springs holds a five-star EMPTYJET grade, one of 49 five-star houses on Earth and among just 777 starred hotels; it occupies seat 37 of 49. The case for that grade is clear in both professional recognition and guest verdicts: an EMPTYJET Consensus of 99/100 and N° 1 of 777 in The Guests' 777, plus Best in Country — N°1 house in Costa Rica. The MICHELIN Guide awards Nayara Springs Three Keys. The property also claims Best Hotel spa in the World and the Costa Rican government’s Four Leaves Award for Sustainability.

Accommodation at Nayara Springs is defined by its Springs Villas, each offering 139 square metres (1,500 square feet) of private space. Every villa features a private plunge pool fed by natural mineral hot springs, a private terrace with a daybed, table, and chairs, and a living area with an additional day-bed. The oversized bathrooms are equipped with dual rain showers and both indoor and outdoor shower options. Guests sleep on a four-poster king bed and enjoy amenities such as Wi-Fi, complimentary laundry, a mini-bar (excluding wine and liquor), twice daily maid service, and air conditioning. Environmentally friendly, top-of-the-line bath amenities are provided, along with daily replenished coffee and tea, free international calls, a safe deposit box, and a hairdryer. Each villa is attended by a private host, complementing the attentive hotel staff and ensuring a seamless, personalised experience.

Nayara Springs presents a diverse and sophisticated dining program, led by Culinary Director Chef Gianluca, an Italian expert trained under Michelin-starred chefs. The gastronomic philosophy centres on a zero-kilometre approach, sourcing local and seasonal products to support area farmers and showcase Costa Rican flavours.

• Mis Amores: This restaurant specialises in Northern Italian cuisine, featuring wood-fired pizzas and a live-cheese pasta dish. The outdoor setting offers spectacular views of the Arenal volcano from every table, creating a memorable dining atmosphere.

• Amor Loco: Amor Loco delivers a fine dining experience with a signature chef’s tasting menu that highlights Costa Rican flavours. The menu is a curated selection of small plates, each designed to showcase the chefs’ creativity and skill.

• Asia Luna: Asia Luna offers a fusion of traditional and international cuisine, reflecting the property’s commitment to culinary diversity and innovation.

• Besame Mucho: For a more intimate experience, Besame Mucho provides a private dining room with a personal chef and server, ideal for romantic candlelit dinners.

• Nostalgia Wine Bar: Guests can sample wines by the ounce or glass, exploring a curated selection in a relaxed setting.

• Cielito Lindo Swim Up Bar: This bar serves signature cocktails with exceptional views, perfect for unwinding by the pool.

• Mi Cafecito Espresso Bar: The hotel roasts its own coffee, offering guests a taste of Costa Rica’s renowned beans.

The culinary program at Nayara Springs is defined by its fusion of local and international influences, commitment to sustainability, and a focus on guest experience.

The spa at Nayara Springs has been recognised as the best hotel spa in the world. It is an open-air sanctuary set within the rainforest, where treatment pavilions are surrounded by lush vegetation and accompanied by the natural soundtrack of the jungle. The spa’s menu incorporates locally grown organic coffee, chocolate, and volcanic mud, reflecting a deep connection to the region’s natural resources. Offerings include massage therapies, facials, scrubs, and a range of body and beauty treatments. Reservations are required prior to arrival, ensuring a personalised and tranquil experience. The spa’s design and philosophy are rooted in the surrounding environment, providing guests with a restorative and immersive wellness journey.

The majority of the team is drawn from the local community, embodying heartfelt Costa Rican hospitality and sharing their culture with guests. The hotel supports its staff with free transportation, education, health services, and orphanage support, fostering a sense of pride and commitment that translates into attentive, genuine service. Each villa is assigned a private host, further enhancing the personalised guest experience.

Situated in La Fortuna, Nayara Springs is surrounded by tropical rainforest and is a designated sloth sanctuary, preserving vital habitat for sloths, howler monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, and other wildlife. The property is adjacent to Arenal Volcano National Park, offering guests direct access to one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated natural attractions. The setting is both tranquil and vibrant, with the sights and sounds of the rainforest providing a constant connection to nature. Sustainability initiatives include reforestation, building around heritage trees, planting native species, and supporting the local community, all of which contribute to the preservation of the region’s unique ecosystem.

Nayara Springs is a destination for travellers seeking refined seclusion, immersive nature, and a standard of hospitality recognised by the world’s leading authorities. Its adults-only policy, private hot spring villas, and acclaimed spa make it particularly suited to couples and those in search of tranquillity. The property’s proximity to Arenal Volcano National Park and its role as a wildlife sanctuary appeal to those with an appreciation for biodiversity and sustainability. With a MICHELIN Three Keys distinction, exceptional guest reputation, and a culinary program led by a chef with Michelin pedigree, Nayara Springs stands as a benchmark for luxury in Costa Rica and beyond.