If I were to tell you that
we went on an outing and saw practically all the species of butterflies that
are native to Guanacaste and over 500 species of plants, from more than 34
different families, you would likely think that this outing spanned multiple
days. Now, if I tell you that in
addition to these butterflies and plants we saw some 30 species of birds from
11 different families and 6 native species of frogs, in addition to bats, turtles,
iguanas and lizards, you would think that I was talking about a trip that must
have taken multiple days throughout multiple different regions of Costa
Rica.
But in reality all this
happened in a single day between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and in a single spot – the
newest thermal water center on the northern face of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano––Blue River Resort.
Beyond
indulging ourselves with the incredible biodiversity of the region, we were
able to immerse in a revitalizing thermal pool, have a delicious meal, and
enjoy an
“out–of–this–world” massage. In addition
we saw an intense light blue river and discovered a beautiful waterfall hidden
within the magnificent rain forest.
The
60-minute trip from Liberia is pleasant thanks to the great views of the
Guanacastecan savannah. As
one ascends toward the volcano, picture–perfect views appear at the foothills
of the mountains. Shortly after
passing a small hill, the view makes a remarkable change and the familiar
savannah landscape
disappears
to make room for thick rain forest and a very refreshing breeze.
This
transition is absolutely delightful. Up until then we did not realize the juxtaposition of the northern face
of Rincón de la Vieja’s greener and rainy side compared to that of its southern
dry forest. At Blue River we
discovered that this contrast is one of the great defining factors of this
resort. The developer of this
project, Daniel Appelboim, proudly explained to us that in contrast with the
other tourist centers at Rincón, here everything is green 365 days of the year.
Very
special thermal waters…
Have you ever gone to a thermal pool to recharge your
batteries only to come out of the water more tired than when you arrived?
If you have had that experience, this place is for
you. Blue River’s green waters
possess the revitalizing effect that we thermo-addicts seek….
Apparently this is due to the origin of the water.
This is not rainwater filtered through the earth’s crust
and then tempered by hot rocks. These are primary waters that come from depths of thousands of feet,
heated directly by the deep magma that adds invigorating minerals and gasses
directly to the water. This is in
contrast to the majority of the thermal waters in Costa Rica which are
frequently of a superficial (filtered) origin.
The attraction of the place, however, goes beyond its
thermal pools. As mentioned, this
is an area dense in life.
It has a beautiful butterfly breeding center, a complete
botanical garden, a reptilian and amphibian lagoon and a large variety of
species that roam freely around the place.
There is also an abundance of very special details, such as
small tents in the middle of the forest to be used for reading or practicing
yoga, wind chimes hanging from trees, and in general a very harmonious and
eco-centered decor.
Although the place does not strive to exhibit its luxuries,
it has a gym with cutting–edge equipment and a
5–star spa to delight visitors and complete their
experience.
As night fell, we enjoyed an additional hour at the pools
followed by a great dinner. Then
we went to rest in the homey and ample 600 sq.ft. room where we dropped happily
exhausted, lulled into dreamland by the sounds of the forest…
How to get there: Go 24 km. north of Liberia, then turn at the crossroads
toward the small town of Quebrada Grande and go another 31 km. to reach the
resort. The road is paved until
just passed Quebrada Grande and then there is unpaved road in good condition,
except for some small stretches.
What to do upon arrival: 4 thermal pools
and one cold water pool with an amusing water-slide, a botanical garden, a
butterfly farm, an amphibian pool, a spa, hiking paths to the volcano,
horseback riding to the Pénjamo River and to a waterfall, as well as a variety
of other possible activities.
Rates: The $20 day pass includes
entrance to the pools and the botanical garden, a wild life tour and
lunch. Cabins cost $98 per night for 2
persons and include breakfast and the use of all the amenities (pools, gym,
butterfly farm, botanical garden) and a guide. There are also spa and tour packages available.
There are special discounts for Costa
Rican visitors.
Contacts: Tel: 2206 5000 BlueRiverCr.com