Xandari Resort occupies a 16.19-hectare estate in Tacacori, Alajuela, in Costa Rica's central valley. At 1,200 meters elevation, at the foot of Poás volcano, this property brings together about twenty villas scattered throughout tropical gardens and forest. The Juan Santamaria international airport is just 7 km away—roughly twenty minutes by car—making it a logical choice for a first or last night in Costa Rica.

Why Choose Xandari Resort

The resort's character comes from its owners: architect Sherril Broudy and his wife Charlene, an artist and designer. Each villa incorporates original works by the couple, vibrant colors, and local materials. The result feels as much gallery as resort, in a setting where architecture embraces the landscape rather than overwhelming it.

The altitude offers another practical advantage: average temperature hovers around 21 °C year-round. Villas operate on natural ventilation with no air conditioning. For travelers accustomed to tropical coastal resorts, the contrast is refreshing.

Atmosphere and Natural Setting

The estate blends tropical forest with maintained botanical gardens. Plants are labeled with both botanical and common names, transforming a simple stroll into an introduction to Costa Rican flora. Wildlife follows suit: colorful birds, butterflies, and small forest mammals regularly cross the trails.

Four kilometers of marked paths wind through the property and lead to five hidden waterfalls. The trails are accessible to all fitness levels and remain one of guests' most treasured activities.

The Villas

Accommodations come in six categories, all equipped with a private terrace, kitchenette, safe, minibar, and ceiling fan.

• Prima Villa (46.45 m²): king-size or two double beds, garden view, ideal for bird watching.
• Prima Plus Villa (55.74 m²): on the west hill, two double beds and a sofa bed, spacious private garden.
• Ultra Villa (68.28 m²): on the east hill, king-size or two double beds.
• Ultra Plus Villa (76.18 m²): on the west hill, king-size bed, two sofa beds, extensive private gardens.
• Prima Villa Mountain View: round structure with thatched roof, single bedroom, panoramic views of surrounding ridges.
• Star Villa (131.92 m²): the largest, two bedrooms, full kitchen, dining area, living room, two bathrooms, valley view.

Restaurant, Spa and Services

Farm-to-Table Cuisine

The terrace restaurant practices farm-to-table dining: the majority of vegetables and herbs come from the property's organic garden. The menu blends Costa Rican flavors with international influences, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options as well as a children's menu.

Spa Village

The Spa Village consists of five treatment palapas scattered through the gardens, complemented by hot tubs. Treatments—massages, wraps, therapeutic baths, facials—use products based on local plants.

Common Facilities

• Three pools, including two 18-meter pools and one 38-meter sunset pool
• Two heated outdoor hot tubs
• Fitness room, library, two shops
• Free Wi-Fi, laundry service, room service
• Yoga classes and on-site art galleries

Location: Tacacori, Alajuela

Tacacori sits on the heights of Alajuela, away from city noise yet close to major routes. Its central valley position makes it a convenient departure point toward the north (Poás volcano, Alajuela and Heredia coffee plantations) and other regions. San José is reachable in under an hour's drive outside rush hour.

Nearby Attractions

• Poás Volcano: one of the country's most accessible active craters, about an hour's drive away. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid cloud cover.
• Coffee Plantations: the Alajuela-Heredia region produces some of Costa Rica's finest high-altitude beans. Several fincas offer guided tours and tastings.
• San José: museums (pre-Columbian gold, jade), National Theater and central market for a half-day urban immersion.
• La Paz Waterfall Gardens: waterfalls, butterfly gardens and local wildlife, roughly 1 hour 30 minutes away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning Your Costa Rica Stay

Xandari Resort fits naturally into a broader Costa Rican itinerary. For the Pacific coast, Pirate Cove Hotel offers a stop near northern beaches. For Arenal volcano, Miradas Arenal Hotel and Hot Springs combines cone views with hot springs. For the cloud forest in San Gerardo de Dota, Trogon Lodge focuses on quetzal spotting. Libelula Lounge Lodge and Hotel La Vela Boutique round out options in other regions.

To build a complete itinerary and receive personalized advice, explore our Costa Rica trips.