Looking for a warm Caribbean retreat with perfect waves and classic, yet simple Victorian elegance? Famed watercolourist Elizabeth Steinvorth and her daughter Elena have created what can only be described as Costa Rica’s most splendid, eco-friendly resort situated in Puerto Viejo. Steinvorth, who has holidayed in the country for decades, originally came to Costa Rica long before the nation benefited from modern conveniences, such as widespread electricity. Now having breathed new life into what resembled to be a small village of dilapidated cabanas, the new found hotelier has bridged the nation’s quaint past with modern convenience in a setting that values the natural environment above all else.
Situated on a remote private island in Costa Rica’s Limon province, Hotel Aguas Claras is made up of 6 bungalows and 6 suites which each feature their own individual design language. In addition, it offers endless opportunities to immerse oneself in this Central American nation’s rich blend of Afro-Costa Rican culture. Though all the bungalows and suites do have something in common: bright colors, comfortable fabrics, and fixtures decorated in local seashells. Highlights of this plastic free property include a significant collection of local artwork, botanical gardens, Casa Gandhi a yoga and meditation space, as well as a splendid pool.
When renovating the property in 2017, Elena Steinvorth and Elena Rohrmoser focused on modernizing the property with an equal focus on preserving the Victorian-Caribbean style. Each bungalow and suite is meant to reflect the resort’s natural beauty and have been decorated with thoughtful details, such as ‘recycled materials, recreated furniture and found objects.’ Awakening the senses of the guests is at the heart of this hotel’s philosophy, and to no surprise the Aguas Claras was awarded the Tourism of Tomorrow award by the Cayuga Collection.
The Zoological enthusiasts will not be disappointed by the Flora and Fauna, which are found in abundant quantities from Palm Trees to howler monkeys and sloths.
In addition to the Claras’ wonderful tropical setting and exceptionally private beaches is the resort’s cuisine. The local and international cuisine served at the restaurant includes an innovative menu showcasing the best of Costa Rican and international flavors, while incorporating fresh local ingredients. Highlights of the menu include Sea Bass, Plantains, and Ceviche. We also hear the bar crafts some delicious mixological cocktails. If you are a fan of hiking, biking, snorkeling, or just rejuvenating in a natural environment, few properties in Costa Rica compare to Hotel Aguas Claras.
Images courtesy of: Hotel Aguas Claras
