A Four Seasons, Ecotourism Refresh in Costa Rica

Ecotourism strikes a difficult balance, particularly in the luxury sector.

It's necessary to preserve the natural environment, but it's just as important to develop the destination with enough amenities and attractions to attract clients who are willing to pay for the privilege of occupying a noteworthy, otherwise unspoiled space in an exclusive, secluded sanctuary.

Costa Rica's Papagayo Peninsula-in the northwest province of Guanacaste-has managed to produce exactly that result. Azure seas kiss soft natural sand beaches among mangroves that grow upwards into rainforest canopies before peaking at dramatic volcanic calderas crested by the clouds that nourish the country's renowned coffee crop.

Costa Rica's commitment to environmentalism is understandable-the biodiversity here is extreme, with some estimates tagging the country as home to 5 percent of the planet's total known species of flora and fauna.

For guests planning travel in December 2017 and later, the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica will have completed a $35 Million USD renovation of the facility and surrounding peninsula, which the Costa Rica government decrees must be kept at least 70 percent undeveloped.

What development does exist is held to strict environmental standards, with a focus on sustainable tourism development and land preservation.

Located on an isthmus of back-to-back sandy beaches, the hotel's redevelopment will focus on guest rooms, including suites with canopy beds (perhaps evoking the rainforest canopy) and private plunge pools, a new outdoor exhibition kitchen in the resort's signature restaurant and a focus on indoor-outdoor gathering spaces.

In addition to the upgrades planned for the resort, the larger Peninsula Papagayo developments include a network of nature trails for guests to explore and a new macaw sanctuary that focuses on preservation and educational programming.

The 18-hole Arnold Palmer Signature Course and upgrades to the existing marina to attract larger superyachts will round out the slate of enhancements planned for the community, which also includes several luxury homes with amenity privileges at the Four Seasons property.

The Four Seasons Resort is accepting reservations for stays beginning December 4, 2017.

[READMORE]READ MORE: Fall in Love with Costa Rica's Papagayo Peninsula[/READMORE]

How To Get There

Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport in Liberia is 29 miles from the Peninsula and is served by major North American and European airlines.

When To Go

The only time to avoid is October when it consistently rains. The dry season is in December while the wet season peaks mid-summer. The Four Seasons Resort has noted several value dates during the upcoming dry season in 2017/2018.

The Math

Rates start at $575 USD plus tax and vary with availability.

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