What to Expect from La Paz and Vara Blanca Hotels
Vara Blanca’s hotels put you steps away from some of Costa Rica’s best natural attractions. You’re close to hiking trails, birdwatching spots, and guided tours of La Paz Waterfall Gardens or Poás Volcano National Park. The area is quieter than bigger tourist spots like Arenal Volcano or Monteverde, so you get a more relaxed experience. In the village, you can visit local spots like Freddo Fresas for strawberry smoothies or traditional Costa Rican meals at nearby sodas.
The cool, misty weather is a plus, so you won’t need air conditioning. Bring a light jacket or sweater for evenings. Whether you’re here to explore the cloud forest or just want a peaceful base near San Jose, Vara Blanca’s accommodations make it easy to enjoy the area.
Reasons to Stay at the Peace Lodge
Vara Blanca is a small community in the cloud forest, about an hour from San Jose. It sits between the Poás and Barva volcanoes, close to La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Poás Volcano National Park. This rural area isn’t overladen with places to stay outside of some smaller bed and breakfasts and rentals, which makes it ideal for those looking off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Forest Immersion
This area is perfect for travelers who want to be near nature without traveling far from the city. Most travelers come here to visit Poás National Park, nearby coffee plantations, or La Paz. This area is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests.
Unique Accommodations
La Paz offers by far the best place to stay in Vara Blanca. The Peace Lodge is located inside the La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park, surrounded by cloud forest. It’s one of Costa Rica’s most romantic hotels, although also great for families and anyone looking for a unique experience.
Each room comes with handcrafted furniture, stone fireplaces, and private balconies with forest views. Guests enjoy extras like jetted tubs and waterfall showers, which add a touch of luxury to the natural setting.
Outdoor and Nature Activities
The lodge’s connection to the nature park is a big draw. You can walk to five amazing waterfalls, explore trails through the cloud forest, or visit the on-site animal sanctuary with jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and hummingbirds. It's a great place to stay if you love nature and wildlife!
Locally Sourced Materials
The restaurant serves Costa Rican and international dishes, using fresh, local ingredients. If you want to relax, the spa offers massages and treatments inspired by the forest surroundings.
Other Lodgings in Vara Blanca
While Peace Lodge is the main attraction, Vara Blanca has a few smaller places to stay. The family-run Poás Volcano Lodge isn’t exactly in Vara Blanca, but it’s not far away and has simple, comfortable rooms with views of Poás Volcano. The grounds include walking paths, and breakfast is included, making it a good pick for travelers who want a quiet, budget-friendly stay.
Another choice is Villa Calas, a small guesthouse in the village with basic rooms and easy access to local restaurants.
Getting to La Paz/Vara Blanca
The Vara Blanca area is about an hour from San Jose’s Juan Santamaria International Airport. The roads are paved and in good condition, so a regular car works fine year-round. Public buses are available from San Jose, Alajuela, and Heredia to Vara Blanca.
FAQs about Places to Stay in La Paz, Vara Blanca
What makes Vara Blanca a good place to stay?
It’s close to La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Poás Volcano, with easy access to cloud forest trails and wildlife. You get a quiet, natural setting just an hour from San José.
How many nights should I stay in Vara Blanca?
Two to three nights max is ideal. This gives you time to visit the waterfalls, hike, and explore the volcano or nature park. It’s also a great stop if you’re traveling from San José to Arenal.
Is Vara Blanca good for families?
Yes. While a great place for romance, the Peace Lodge has kid-friendly activities like animal tours and easy trails. Smaller lodges are welcoming and relaxed, perfect for families who want a calm stay.
Do I need a 4x4 to get to Vara Blanca?
No. The roads are paved, and a regular car is fine in both dry and rainy seasons.
What activities are available near Vara Blanca?
You can hike, birdwatch, visit waterfalls, or take guided tours of the cloud forest and Poás Volcano. Peace Lodge guests get access to the nature park’s trails and sanctuary.
Is air conditioning necessary in Vara Blanca?
No. The weather is cool and misty. A light jacket or blanket is more useful.
How safe is Vara Blanca?
It’s a safe, rural area with friendly locals. Just keep an eye on your belongings, as you would anywhere.
Can I combine Vara Blanca with other destinations?
Yes. It pairs well with Arenal and Monteverde for more nature and adventure, or you enjoy time here before going to the beach.
