Hotel Grano De Oro | San Jose
In Costa Rica, the term “Grano de Oro” is used to refer to the coffee bean, their “Grain of Gold”. The founders of this boutique hotel fell in love with the idea that such a small fruit could be so valuable.
Hotel Grano de Oro was started by a Canadian couple who frequented Costa Rica for vacation. They loved the natural beauty of the country and the people, and in particular the metropolitan city of San Jose. They found that San José was lacking an upscale boutique-style hotel, offering a unique, personalized service – in other words a “Grain of Gold”. With this in mind, the search for the perfect house to be renovated began.
The original tropical Victorian home, which is now known as the Grano de Oro, was a private family residence belonging to the Pozuelo family, built at the turn of the 20th century.
The Hotel Grano de Oro opened its doors in December of 1991, with 21 guest rooms, a gift shop and a modest café. Quickly gaining recognition from local and international agencies for its unique personality and great service, the hotel became a landmark within the city.
- Information
- Rooms
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
- Restaurants
Your Stay
1 Night
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
4 Star
Hotel
Spoken Languages: English, Spanish
No. Rooms: 39
Special Interests: Adventure, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Relaxation, Shopping, Wine
Experience a cozy guest bedroom in a turn of the century mansion, with the luxuries of a fine hotel. Our standard rooms offer one queen bed with fine luxury linens and all the amenities needed to make your stay comfortable.
Our Superior rooms are slightly larger than the standard rooms, with the same cozy turn of the century feel. Offering one queen bed with fine luxury linens and all the amenities needed to make your stay comfortable.
.A charming turn of the century guest room with a lush tropical, private patio – perfect for enjoying a cocktail or glass of wine at the end of the day. These rooms offer one queen bed with fine luxury linens as well as all the amenities needed to make your stay comfortable.
These larger rooms offer two queen beds with fine luxury linens and comfortably accommodate a family of 4 or two couples.
Our largest and most popular room category, this spacious room offers our luxurious king size mattresses, fine luxury linens and all the amenities needed to make your stay comfortable.
A perfect choice for a family or two couples traveling together. This two room suite with an adjoining shared bath comfortably accommodates up to 5 people. The main room contains one Queen and one Twin bed. The adjoining room has one Queen bed. Each room has its own flat screen TV.
As you enter through the arched doorway of this luxurious suite you are immediately taken back in time. Once the original living room of this converted mansion, it offers a beautiful tropical private garden, spacious seating area, two flat screen TVs and a king sized bed.
Our signature suite, reached by a private staircase, the Vista de Oro lives up to its name commanding a breathtaking view of the Central Valley skyline. The suite reflects the turn of the century style of the original home with handmade tiles, complemented by rich wood paneling. The suite is stylishly furnished with exquisite antiques and a luxurious king sized bed.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Eco Friendly, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Iron / Ironing Board, Laundry Service (Available), Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Wheelchair Friendly
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Room Service
Activities on Site
Fine Dining, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Amusement Park, Animal Encounters, Art Galleries, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Fine Dining, General Sightseeing, Health and Fitness Centre, Hiking, Historical Tours, Massages, Museums, Natural History Tours, River Cruises, Tree-top Canopy Tours, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
Enjoy a relaxing or invigorating massage after a long day of touring San Jose. Our Massage Therapist offers a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments for our guests. For more information on these or to make a reservation, please contact us prior to arrival by phone or email or at any time during your stay.
Visit our Fitness Center overlooking our rooftop sundeck. Open daily from 7am - 8pm.
Come by and see our selection of hand-made Costa Rican handicrafts in our Gift Shop, as well as coffee, artesian jams, chocolates and a few typical treats! Open daily from 2:30p.m. to 9:30p.m.
A rooftop garden terrace with lawn beds and 2 Jacuzzis provides secluded lounging. Great for relaxing after a day in the city or out on a tour. Open daily from 9am to 10pm.
From San José you can take one of a number of daytrips to the rainforest, volcanoes or experience the thrill of white water rafting, to mention just a few. Here are our Top Recommended Tours. For more information on these or other tours or to make a reservation please contact us!
In Costa Rica there a variety of options for traveling between destinations: domestic flights, private transfers, shuttles and car rentals. We are happy to help you with any arrangements you may need.
Flights
In San José there is one main airport offering international and domestic flights, Juan Santamaría (SJO) is located about 20 minutes from our hotel. There is also a smaller domestic airport, Tobías Bolaños offering daily domestic flights around the country. Most domestic flights are under 1 hour.
Airports transfers
Our hotel offers private transfer in and transfer out services from and to both airports for a fee. In order to arrange for a pick up or drop off service all we need is your flight information. Our vans are air conditioned, well-maintained, fully insured and driven by experienced, punctual, polite and very responsible bilingual drivers. For information on prices please contact us prior to your trip or ask at our reception during your stay.
Private transfers
We also can arrange private transfers to most destinations within the country making for a very flexible, convenient and safe way to travel. You choose the departure time and during the trip you can stop when you need (without being subject to a schedule). Our vans are air conditioned, well-maintained, fully insured and driven by experienced, punctual, polite and very responsible bilingual drivers. For information on costs please contact us prior to your trip or ask at our reception during your stay.
Shuttles
Another option to travel in the country is by shuttle (Interbus). This is a slightly more economical way to travel. The shuttle is a shared transportation option in a coaster or minibus. The shuttles only offer their service hotel to hotel between more popular destinations. Their routes operate daily and usually they offer one departure time in the morning and one departure time in the afternoon and are subject to availability so reservations should be made in advance. If you need assistance reserving please contact us
Rent a cars
Rent a car is a great option for exploring Costa Rica if you prefer more independence and flexibility. It and allows you to discover and see more places by yourself (you could have better access to hidden beaches for example). There are many options of car rental companies with the highest standards of quality and service. It is important to know that in Costa Rica driving can be a bit of a challenge because of the difficult road conditions in some locations or lack of road signs and street numbers, however with a good road map, and adventurous and positive attitude and a GPS, you can successfully get wherever you want.
Bring your walking shoes! Urban AdventuresGreat ways to explore urban San José, immerse yourself into the life of the capital and to see city’s secret spots. Contact our Reservations department to reserve your tour.
Restaurant Grano de Oro
At Restaurante Grano de Oro we use only the freshest ingredients to prepare our French Mediterranean cuisine with a tropical influence. It is our priority to select fresh and sustainable local ingredients whenever possible. Under the expertise of our French chef Francis Canal, this haute cuisine restaurant is a very popular place for locals and tourists alike. Open daily from 7am to 10pm, the restaurant has the charming atmosphere of a magnificent period house with an elegant interior patio.
The flavors and presentation of our dishes show incredible attention to detail and reflect the passion with which they are created. Responsibly caught fresh fish features prominently on our menu, enhanced by a variety of delicious sauces, ranging from the simple perfection of a cardamom cream to the Mediterranean influence of fresh tomato. Or if you prefer, you can try our Costa Rican tenderloin accompanied by a delicious glass of red wine chosen from our cellar.
Whether you choose to have breakfast, lunch, dinner, or enjoy all three meals at the hotel, you'll be amazed at the varied selection of dishes to please all palates.
And of course, the pinnacle of a dinner at Grano de Oro is dessert. Our standout dessert, the Pie Grano de Oro, is a decadent mix of coffee and chocolate, while the more traditional Tarte Tatin ensures there's always room for dessert.
Pacuare Lodge | Pacuare River
Pacuare Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge with only 20 suites situated on the banks of one of the most scenic white-water wonders of the world, the Pacuare River.This unparalleled location, with its vibrant nature, offers a scenic backdrop to adventure, romance and wellness.
Simple, and yet sophisticated, the indigenous Cabécar-inspired architecture, pristine rainforest, farm-to-table exquisite cuisine, and luxurious, well-appointed accommodations come together to offer an experience like no other.
Pacuare Lodge is the birthplace of Böëna Wilderness Lodges, a collection of four outstanding hotels in some of the wildest parts of Costa Rica. Leave the car behind and arrive in style by rafting Costa Rica’s best whitewater, and discover a fabulous lodge that is delightfully remote.
- Information
- Rooms
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
- Restaurants
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Lodge
Garden suites include a private terrace that opens to landscaped native bush gardens and a stunning view of a massive wall of thick rainforest that cascades down a mountainside opposite the Pacuare River.
Inside your front door you’ll find a luxuriously appointed king-size bed or two full-size beds with Italian linens made of the best Supina Egyptian cotton and superior Beautyrest mattress® caters to a serene, restful night’s sleep.
Your ensuite bathroom offers a nearly 360º view of the jungle. Nearby, a private alfresco heated shower lets you soak up the quiet sounds and invigorating scents of the rainforest.
Retreat into tranquil luxury and design. Your spacious River View Suite includes a private terrace that opens on to stunning views of the Pacuare River and the surrounding jungle.
Your suite features a king-size bed with with Italian linens made of the best Supina Egyptian cotton and superior Beautyrest mattress®, exquisite décor, natural design with hardwood flooring, open terrace with hammock and a waterfront deck. A fully tiled ensuite bathroom offers a nearly 180-degree view of the rainforest and the Pacuare River. Nearby, a open-air heated shower lets you experience the seclusion and beauty of the rainforest.
Welcome to life in the treetops. This villa provides a 360-degree rainforest view.
A private suspension bridge leads from the deck to a platform high in a massive rainforest tree that affords a sweeping view of the Pacuare River and surrounding jungle. On any given morning or evening, you can spot dozens of bird species in the nearby treetops from your aerial perch.
This Villa has a high roof, teak floors and wide screened windows that let the breeze through and provide a 360-degree rainforest view. It is elegantly furnished and holds a king-size, canopy bed. The adjacent covered deck has a hammock and seating area, and the entire suite opens onto a sundeck with a small stone swimming pool fed by spring water.
Perched on a ridge amidst exuberant tropical greenery, offer unforgettable views of the Pacuare River and surrounding rainforest…
Luxury amid nature’s most spectacular creations. Perched on a ridge amidst exuberant tropical greenery, the Linda Vista Suites offer unforgettable views of the Pacuare River and surrounding rainforest. Bright and spacious (230-square-meter) suites, with a simple, natural design and exquisite décor that perfectly complement the verdure and profusion of the surrounding jungle. Each villa was built with special attention to the topography so that guests enjoy gorgeous views of the river and forest from every area – the bedroom, living room, bathroom, deck and pool.
Spacious master bedroom with sitting area. Luxurious bathroom with two showers – internal and outdoor.
The Jaguar Villa combines thoughtful luxury with complete immersion in the tropical rainforest.
Nestled next to the Pacuare River, the Jaguar Villa is our most luxurious suite. It was designed to give guests the experience of being in a tropical rainforest without sacrificing comfort. Our simple, elegant design combines hardwood floors and teak furniture with ample open areas for admiring the surrounding nature, including a terrace complete with a spring-fed pool, outdoor showers, and spacious bathrooms. Rushing water, birdsong, and the sounds of the forest team up with the rainforest’s natural colors and aroma to create the unforgettable sensory experience of a stay in the Jaguar Villa!
Property Facilities
Activity Desk, Bar, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Pool, Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Massages, Natural History Tours, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
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Nairi Awari Restaurant
A Rainforest Culinary Experience Unlike Any Other. If you read the guest comments about the food at the Pacuare Lodge, you might get the impression that we have a chef trained in haute cuisine.
A Rainforest Culinary Experience Unlike Any Other
If you read the guest comments about the food at the Pacuare Lodge, you might get the impression that we have a chef trained in haute cuisine. It sure seems like it. The truth is that the lodge’s food is simply the product of our own love of cooking, a sentiment that we transferred to the jungle and emulsified – to use a culinary term – with the talent of our local staff, teaching them how to prepare memorable meals.
The Pacuare Lodge’s kitchen staff is made up of young people from nearby communities. We don’t really have a chef; we’ve simply developed the talent of local people and taught them the secrets of great food. We like to surprise our guests with novel combinations of flavors, local ingredients, innovative recipes, and beautiful presentations. It isn’t fancy, but it’s delicious enough to warrant opening a bottle of good wine, which is why we keep our cellar well stocked with vintages from around the world.
Local Experts, Longstanding Costa Rican Traditions
As we assembled our kitchen team, our primary goal was to find local people who loved to cook. Though they come from rural backgrounds, we’ve built upon their culinary traditions and nurtured their passion for cooking. The results are reflected by the hundreds of comments in the Pacuare Lodge’s guest book from people who were amazed to find outstanding food in such a remote and wild place.
As food enthusiasts, we make it a priority to purchase fresh and quality ingredients and to do innovative things with them, so it is not uncommon to see a fusion of Costa Rican and exotic dishes. Our menu is constantly evolving to reflect the influences of other countries and cultures that we visit, or whose cuisines we enjoy, but it will always be based on our culinary roots.
Amor Arenal | Arenal Volcano National Park
Amor Arenal, nestled at the foothills of Arenal Volcano and on the edge of the Virgin Forest Canyon, offers a luxurious escape with breathtaking views of the rainforest. The property features elegantly designed cabins made from tropical hardwoods, each offering direct views of the volcano. Modern amenities include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, warm mineral spring pools, and a deck overlooking the canyon.
Guests can savor organic, locally-sourced dishes at El Rancho restaurant or enjoy tapas at La Jaranita specialty restaurant. The lodge also boasts a full-service spa, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind. With its prime location, guests can easily access jungle trails, enjoy horseback riding, or relax in the hot spring pools directly from their rooms.
- Information
- Rooms
- Facilities
- Activities and Services
- Restaurants
Your Stay
3 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
5 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Spanish
No. Rooms: 31
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife, Wine
Our twenty-one Casitas feature a king size bed, fine linens, double sinks, private toilet and dual-headed rainfall shower with amazing views of the surrounding forest.
Each Casita is complete with its own warm natural spring spa-plunge pool and intimate terrace facing out to the volcano and our rainforest canyon stream. All Casitas are built from precious tropical hardwoods and offer exceptional privacy and living space at 81 sq. meters (872 sq.ft.)
Canyon Casita King features:
• King Size bed with fine linens and four extra-large pillows
• Full deck overlooking the canyon with volcano view
• Warm natural spring Spa-Plunge pool
• Adirondack chairs, table and footrest
• 55” Smart Television with international cable and Netflix
• Air Conditioning
• Ceiling Fan
• Writing desk and stationary
• Double head rain shower overlooking the rainforest
• Double sinks with complete amenities and lighted vanity mirror
• 1500w Hair dryer
• Separate toilet
• Complimentary Minibar: water, juice, soda, beer, coffee, tea and snacks
• Spacious cedar closets with bathrobe and slippers
• Iron with board
• Complimentary Wifi
• Complimentary VOIP phone calls to USA
• Laptop Safe
• Additional twin bed available on request.
Our ten Casitas feature two queen beds, fine linens, double sinks, private toilet and dual-headed rainfall
shower with amazing views of the surrounding forest. Each Casita is complete with its own warm natural spring spa-plunge pool and intimate terrace facing out to the volcano and our rainforest canyon stream.
All Casitas are built from precious tropical hardwoods and offer exceptional privacy and living space at 81 sq. meters (872 sq.ft.)
Canyon Casita Queen features:
• Two queen size beds with fine linens and four extra-large pillows
• Full deck overlooking the canyon with volcano view
• Warm natural spring Spa-Plunge pool
• Adirondack chairs, table and footrest
• 55” Smart Television with international cable and Netflix
• Air Conditioning
• Ceiling Fan
• Double head rain shower overlooking the rainforest
• Double sinks with complete amenities and lighted vanity mirror
• 1500w Hair dryer
• Separate toilet
• Complimentary Minibar: water, juice, soda, beer, coffee, tea and snacks
• Spacious cedar closets with bathrobe and slippers
• Iron with board
• Complimentary Wifi
• Complimentary VOIP phone calls to USA
• Laptop Safe
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Pool, Restaurant, Spa, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Fan, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Shower, Television
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Cooking Courses, Horse Riding, Massages, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
Wander from your room to the rainforest! You can spend hours along our jungle trails meandering through lush vegetation, streams, and water falls. Most people come to Arenal to immerse themselves in nature,
and here you have direct access!
After a day of exploration and adventure treat yourself to craft drinks in our warm spring pool bar, relax in your own Spa-Plunge pool, or swim in one of two natural spring ponds on the hotel grounds.
Private Expeditions will be held to nearby exclusive areas such as waterfalls and secluded attractions with personalized service, which makes them different from the regular activities promoted in the area.
Our Executive Chef Guillermo, inspired by his passion for cooking, invites you to join him for a unique
culinary experience. He has crafted a 2-hour session that includes a live demonstration and tasting of four traditional Costa Rican dishes. Enjoy great conversation and fine wines as you explore these authentic flavors. The menu features Tico Ceviche, fresh fish marinated in citrus juices and a hint of Ginger Ale; Chicharrón Empanadas, corn dough filled with savory pork chicharrón and refried beans; Caribbean Shrimp, shrimp cooked in a rich coconut milk stew, served with rice and beans; and Pineapple Empanada, a delightful pastry filled with pineapple syrup, paired with Cas fruit ice cream. Join us for this special opportunity to learn and taste the best of Costa Rican cuisine!
Step into romantic dining escapade amidst the rainforests, perfect for celebrating love. Guests can enjoy a 6-course surprise menu paired with curated wines, creating a delightful culinary symphony. Hosted in the intimate Wine Cellar, “La Cava,” with personalized service, it’s a serene getaway nestled in nature. Cured by the chef without a set menu, each course is customized and complemented by wines selected by the sommelier.
With 4 years in this paradise and 20+ years in his culinary career, our Executive Chef has discovered
delightful foods in markets, squares, and streets. Join him for an authentic gastronomic adventure,
featuring memorable dishes and honoring tradition. Explore Costa Rica’s multicultural essence and vibran “Pura Vida” lifestyle from north to south and east to west!
Have fun at La Jaranita, our version of a Costa Rican traditional watering hole! Lively artisan masquerade art give a touch of playful color to inspire the festive ambiance of a gathering with friends.
La Jaranita’s signature cocktail menu offers a unique Tico take on traditional libations by showcasing our own Guaro Cacique infusions. Explore and enjoy an original Guaro Sour, Purple Mule, Red Mojito, and more.
Enter The Tico Grill at La Jaranita and immerse yourself in a unique gastronomic adventure. With personal mini grills at every table, you can barbecue your own custom selection of veggies, proteins, and more, crafting delectable “gallitos” - Costa Rica’s famed soft corn tortilla mini-tacos. Explore artisan Guaro Cacique infusions and classic cocktails like the Jaguar You and Margarazo for an unforgettable dining journey.
As the Executive Chef at Amor Arenal, the chef takes pride in offering guests a genuine and down-to-earth culinary experience. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, each dish is crafted to showcase simple yet flavorful combinations. The menu, consisting of six courses paired with fine wines, reflects the chef ’s passion for honest gastronomy. Guests can expect a memorable dining adventure that highlights the purity of ingredients and the care that goes into every dish.
We have curated the rum tasting experience to celebrate the essence of spirits across Central America,
rooted in the richness of sugar cane—the very heart and soul of our craft. Over centuries, this technique has evolved and perfected, culminating in modern times where the finest rums stand shoulder to shoulder in quality with the best whiskies or cognacs.
We take great pride in introducing you to our exquisite Wine Cellar, where we offer a truly unique wine
tasting experience featuring 5 exclusive wines, each meticulously selected to showcase distinct regions
from around the world.
Embark on a captivating journey alongside our sommelier through diverse wine-producing territories.
To complement this sensory adventure, indulge in a curated selection of cheeses, charcuterie, roasted
vegetables, and an assortment of freshly baked homemade bread.
Our name says it all... Love and the warm celebration of it is what distinguishes us as a destination. Amor Arenal is the ideal hotel to make your dream wedding or special event come true, intertwining the scenic beauty of nature into the celebration. Our intimate character allows us to create uniquely magical experiences that reflect the best of Costa Rican hospitality, the charm of La Fortuna, and our authentic desire to make your special day truly memorable.
Start the day right, you’ll find all the traditional dishes like Gallo Pinto here for sure, but also more
healthy options like our ‘Pinto Sano’, made with brown rice and veggies, for example. You’ll also find nutrient-rich organic fruit and veggie smoothies, farm-fresh eggs, yogurt and cheeses from grass-fed cows. It just might be the freshest breakfast you’ve ever tasted!
Our lunch and dinner menus use the freshest ingredients. We feature fresh catch fish from the
Pacific Coast, organic chicken and eggs, grass fed beef, organic vegetables and fruits from local
farms, plus spices and herbs from our garden.
Every diet deserves delicacies, so our Chef will prepare your special requests such as gluten free
breads, low calorie desserts, vegan and vegetarian dishes, macrobiotic plan items among other
alternate options
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