6 Outdoor Activities in Bagaces That You Shouldn't Miss

Reviewed By RobandEmily5302 - Huntington, United States

Founder/developer Gabriel Saragovia runs such an efficient operation that he makes it look easy. Rio Perdido is built in, around and above the lush Rio Perdido (Lost River), which has at least 20 thermal watering holes, where you can swim and soak all day in varying temperatures of "warm". If you wish hang out by the pool area, Rio Perdido has three warm pools, a swim up bar where the adorable and capable Diego will bring you plenty to eat and drink from a terrific tapas/cocktail menu featuring lots of local style dishes. Breakfasts are super fun. The gentle and courtly Divier Zamora-Rodrigues is the head morning chef, who puts out such a varied display of local, regional and continental breakfast items, we kept walking around just to enjoy the view. Young Jeffrey and Jafeth are two of the finest waitstaff members, both accommodating, respectful and efficient. Sorry we couldn't pack them up in our suitcases. Dinners are also varied, elegant and made of locally sourced ingredients, and the dining area is large and cleanly appointed with furniture done in this gorgeous, very hefty golden wood. The elegance of the dining/bar/reception area is done in such a way as to maximize the views of the woods overlooking the canyon and river. As we were dining, there was a delightful breeze constantly wafting over and around us. Our casita, number 12, looks directly into the back woods and we were treated to the sight of a family of Howler Monkeys taking their breakfast in the trees just a few feet away from us. There are several classes of bungalows, and they vary by size, but even our least expensive casita was spacious, super clean, with a fantastic king size bed, and we slept like baby Howler Monkeys. For the adventurous (not us), there are numerous hiking trails, two zipline tracks that fly way up over the canyon, a Tarzan swing (looks like crazy fun, but don't ask us!), viewing spots, bridges, including one vast suspension-style, and a wonderful assortment of walking trails that will lead you down to the Lost River for a soak. Bring good waterproof walking sandals or shoes. The beautiful thing about Rio Perdido is that Mr. Saragovia operates this place with a combination of zeal and mindfulness, and the relaxed feeling of this place conceals quite efficient underpinnings. Every member of the staff does more than "specialize"; they will pitch in when and wherever needed. For example, Jonathan, in Guest Services, was not just a concierge, but also a guide, a Spanish teacher, and was acutely aware of the needs of his guests. He is soon to be promoted - congratulations, Jonathan! We also felt that there was always someone around in the main building, the pool and grounds, and near the bungalows. This is very important to us. When we're in a foreign place, we want to feel as though we are being looked after. Rio Perdido does just that and a lot more, and a mere hour from the Liberia Airport. Finally, if you have time for only one place to visit in beautiful Costa Rica, this is it. It's close to the Liberia Airport, very driveable, and only an hour or so from the famous Guanacaste Beaches, if that's your bag. We were so happy here, we didn't move. We can't wait to visit Gabriel's gorgeous place once again! Bravo!