Those seeking a respite from the stresses and strains of the modern world could do a lot worse than selecting the luxury J.W. Marriott Resort at Guanacaste in Costa Rica.
Just getting to the resort, tucked away on the beach in the private gated Hacienda Pinilla estate in the rural northwest of Costa Rica, is an exercise in exile from the modern world: there are twisting dirt roads that lead past rainforests, agricultural fields and out into the middle of nowhere. Want to get away, as in far, far away? You can do it here.
Not that there isn’t anything to do at Guanacaste. In fact, there are plenty of activities to keep one occupied during the day. There’s an eighteen-hole championship golf course just down one road, and the Hacienda Pinilla Beach Club down another, with its beautiful sandy beach and excellent surfing prospects on the Pacific Ocean rollers. Many guests opt to stay put and enjoy the mammoth infinity pool in the center courtyard of the resort, or the small sandy beach along the oceanfront. Or, you can tour the countryside from rainforest to beach on horseback, riding on an ATV; or on a kayak drifting down the Rio Ora. No matter your choice of vehicle, you’ll be watching for birdlife, alligators or the indigenous howling monkeys. All very relaxing.
But for serious stress reduction, nothing can beat one of the resort spa’s exclusive herb and natural fruit treatments, an Inspired Experience brought to you by Distincte. You and your significant other can choose any of three fabulous treatments at this relaxed yet professional full-service spa..
Rice and Tamarind Scrub (30 minutes). Pure and concentrated ground rice and tamarind seed extract (both indigenous to Guanacaste) are the perfect exfoliating blend, loaded with alpha-hydroxyl acids that will eliminate dry and unwanted dead skin cells, revealing a softer, clearer and glittering new skin. Ideal before hitting the beach to help create a more even and deeper tan that will last.
Tropical Coconut Ritual ( 90 minutes). First, your skin will be exfoliated with a delicious combination of coconut, honey and pure coconut oil. Then, you can unwind and rejuvenate the mind while your body is submerged in a bath of calming salts, followed by a relaxing massage.
Guanacaste’s Aromatic Herb Ritual (90 minutes). Pamper yourself with a bubbling hydro massage, followed by a body wrap infused with an odyssey of aromatic locally grown herbs and then enjoy one of the spa’s relaxing deep-muscle massages. This treatment is excellent for jet lag or sleeplessness.
Following your treatments, you will enjoy a delicious repast at the resort’s Mansita Restaurant, featuring a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The seafood dishes here couldn’t be fresher. The resort also offers the Asian-fusion Tamarine, the Sabanero steakhouse and fine Italian cuisine overlooking the beach at the Azul Grill.
Once you’ve rejuvenated mind, spirit and body, the rest of your stay at this fabulous resort will be even more relaxed and enjoyable.
