Monteverde, Costa Rica: Fondavela Mountain Hotel. Perched on Costa Rica’s continental divide, where Caribbean and Pacific weather patterns meet, Fondavela Mountain Hotel offers a serene escape in the heart of Monteverde’s famed cloud forest. Set within 35 acres of landscaped gardens, the hotel is a haven for birdwatchers, with more than 250 species often spotted on the grounds, including the elusive Resplendent Quetzal and the Three-wattled Bellbird.

Nine elegant buildings house spacious suites designed for natural light, privacy, and comfort. Featuring wood paneling, rich fabrics, and floor-to-ceiling windows, each room frames sweeping views of the lush forest and surrounding highlands. Guests can savor gourmet cuisine at the hotel’s two restaurants, unwind by the fireplace in the intimate dining room, or enjoy a cocktail in the cozy bar. Leisure facilities include a glass-roofed indoor pool, two hot tubs, and a game room.

At 1,400 meters (4,200 feet) above sea level, Fondavela offers spectacular vistas of the Gulf of Nicoya and a refreshing “eternal spring” climate year-round. Just 2 km from the world-renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, this is the perfect retreat for both relaxation and exploration.