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The Most Magical Forest
If you’ve never been to Costa Rica, this will change your mind.
Why it works
- Ground destination advice in a first-person story to make the recommendations feel vivid and specific.
- Follow the narrative with practical details readers can use to plan their visit.
- Close with a short selection of related stories to give readers more ways to explore.
How it is built
- Editor introduction
- Costa Rica travel story
- Monteverde highlights
- Local recommendations
- Trending story roundup
- Email footer
Email copy
Back in July, I spent a sensational week traveling around Costa Rica. I hiked around Volcán Arenal, enjoyed the beach (and spotted monkeys) at Manuel Antonio National Park and explored the rainforest around Rio Celeste. VIEW IN BROWSER ANN DOUGLAS LOTT EDITOR Back in July I spent a sensational week traveling around Costa Rica. I hiked around Volcán Arenal, enjoyed the beach (and spotted monkeys) at Manuel Antonio National Park and explored the rainforest around Río Celeste. It was the rainy season, but frankly, that’s the most underrated time to visit. Rain showers are typically brief, and a little hiking in the rain also clears the mind. My favorite memory was in Monteverde, home to a mist-cloaked forest filled with dazzling wildlife. This is such a surreal place, and floating among the clouds by suspension bridge, tram and zip line made for the coolest day of our trip. (It made our 2027 Best in Travel list for a reason.) If you crave trips that radiate wonder and adventure, Monteverde delivers in spades. Save a spot for it on your Costa Rica itinerary for the ultimate lush outdoor experience. Where to stay: Hotel Heliconia is a great midrange option near the cloud forest, with lovely gardens, lodge-like rooms and friendly staff. Best zip line tour: The bridge and zip line tour at Treetopia. If you’re not a thrill-seeker, the breathtaking tram ride to the top can be enjoyed on its own. Where to grab coffee: Order a cup at Café Monteverde and spot monkeys playing in the trees from its covered porch. Where to eat: I know – an Italian spot in Costa Rica? But Restaurante Tramonti’s pizzas and pastas are authentic and sublime, served with spectacular forest views. Trending This Week The Best Boutique Hotels in Europe Our Favorite Ski Resorts Around the World How to Spend 3 Days in Tokyo These Hotels Go All Out for the Holidays Photography credits: Ann Douglas Lott/Lonely Planet, Angela Erick/Pexels This email was sent to you by: Lonely Planet Publications Ltd. | 1101 Red Ventures Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29707 © 2026 Lonely Planet Unsubscribe|Privacy Policy