Xandari Resort & Spa, San José

Xandari Resort & Spa is nestled in the hills of Costa Rica, enriched with the creative touch of architect Sherrill Broudy and his wife, Charlene. Their artistic vision, combined with a commitment to sustainability, has created an oasis of vibrant art, sculpture, and gardening. The former coffee plantation turned forest reserve offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing without having to leave the comforts of the resort. Guests can pick from 24 spacious villas, each with a distinct blend of tropical colors and contemporary design, offering sweeping views of Costa Rica's Central Valley. Three pools, a farm-to-table restaurant, and a full-service spa provide everything you need for a relaxing and luxurious stay.

Pros

• Each villa comes with a terrace, with mixed views of the valley and lush gardens. 
• No shortage of places to lounge and cool off, with three pools and multiple Jacuzzis for guests to choose from. 
• Ayura Spa is a special treat, offering five private palm-roofed Jalapas, each with a hot tub and massage tables. 
• The 40-acre forest reserve property is a great place to see some of Costa Rica's wildlife. 

Cons

• None of the villas offer air-conditioning, and guests must make do with mountainside breezes and ceiling fans during the hottest summer months. 
• The forest reserve setting means lots of bugs, especially near the pools. 
• Most villas don't come equipped with a TV. 
• WiFi access is slow and unreliable in the villas, though the lobby has a stronger connection.

Authenticity

Xandari Resort leans into its distinct blend of local artistry and outdoor ambience, interspersing thoughtfully decorated villas among the sprawling jungle property. The villas are resplendent with local art, sculptures, bright colors, and thatched roofs, while the meandering trails on the property take guests past the native wildlife and through a chorus of birdsong. 

Location

Enjoy a quiet stay at Xandari Resort, situated 15 miles outside of San José. The property is just five miles from Juan Santamaria International Airport, letting you begin vacation adventures within 20 minutes of leaving the airport. In less than an hour's drive, you can reach Poas Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Guests looking for nearby dining and shopping can make the short 15-minute drive to the town of Alajuela.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The resort has 24 villas in six different configurations, all of which are far more spacious than traditional hotel rooms. Each villa has a private furnished terrace, offering views of either Costa Rica's Central Valley or the hotel's luscious gardens. The villas are comfortably furnished with king-sized beds and small kitchenettes featuring mini-fridges and coffee makers. Bathrooms are roomy, brightly tiled, and feature walk-in showers. Accessible rooms are available for guests with limited mobility. 

Wildlife

The former coffee plantation has been allowed to grow wild once more, attracting many native birds to the property. Guests can see a wide range of birds, such as the clay-colored thrush (Costa Rica's national bird), both from the comfort of their villa's terrace or on the 2.5 miles of nature trails winding through the property. For a more interactive experience, consider booking one of the resort's paid morning bird tours. 

Amenities

Ayura Spa is a village in its own right, offering an extensive list of treatments and five private treatment rooms each equipped with a hot tub. The hotel's restaurant is open for all meals of the day, featuring farm-to-table Costa Rican and Mediterranean cuisine and a full bar. There are three pools to choose from, two of which are heated and have Jacuzzis available poolside. Guests with limited mobility can easily get around on the paved paths connecting the villas, several of which are wheelchair accessible, along with all of the common areas. 

Family-Friendliness

The resort is popular with families, as kids have three pools, table tennis, board games, and various resort-run activities to keep them entertained. The villas are spacious, and most can accommodate families, with children up to the age of three staying for free. Order off the special children's menu at the restaurant to keep everyone in the family happy at mealtime. 

Other Highlights

Take a walk on the nature trails to see several riverside waterfalls, including one measuring 70 feet tall. Get an intimate feel for the property by taking part in one of the resort's free greenhouse tours, hydroponic vegetable garden tours, or farm animal visits.