The Five Best Costa Rica Yoga Retreats

Yoga, pilates, and detox are becoming increasingly popular in Costa Rica, which is not surprising given the prevalence of the "pura vida" way of life. Yoga retreats have mushroomed up all over the place, from the seaside to mountaintops, and the holistic tourism industry has grown at a rapid pace in the past decade. Throughout the year, large groups come to om-ing and stretching at various locations, and they have a lot of alternatives for how and where they do it. Guests are more likely to feel at one with nature and themselves at retreats that are situated in natural settings. In addition to providing three square meals a day of nutritious, locally sourced food, they also offer chances to explore the area.

Samasati Nature Retreat

Located on a mountaintop overlooking Puerto Viejo, this breathtaking estate is nestled in the woods. Families, honeymooners, and anybody else seeking a return to nature can find rooms in bungalows that are both comfortable and well decorated. Every day, there are yoga lessons at 6:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., three buffet meals, and retreats of all kinds.

Anamaya Yoga Retreat

Perched on a hilltop above the carefree seaside town of Montezuma—locals call it Montefuma due to the abundance of pot—is this famous yoga resort. The yoga terrace is huge, there's an infinity pool overlooking the sea, and you can have organic food three times a day. Though yoga retreats are the main attraction, Anamaya (meaning "good health" in Sanskrit) also hosts teacher trainings.

Pranamar Villas And Yoga Retreat

This idyllic resort, located just up the beach from Santa Teresa, was constructed by the same firm as Florblanca, which lies just down the road. Nancy Goodfellow, the insightful and calming director of the retreat program, offers daily classes and private sessions in this architectural wonder, which also features a huge pool and a beautiful yoga deck.

Blue Spirit Yoga And Healing Space

This luxurious yoga retreat is located on a hilltop just above Playa Garza and overlooks Playa Guiones. It has a full-service spa, a saltwater infinity pool, cozy "eco-cottages," and vegetarian meals three times a day. Throughout the year, there are retreats that attract yoga teachers from all around the globe.

Harmony Hotel

Nosara, a seaside town famous for its health-conscious population, is home to The Harmony Hotel, a renowned yoga resort. Yoga courses are offered daily for both guests and the general public at the really stunning studio that is encircled by jungle. Aerial yoga, in which practitioners strike postures while dangling from a hammock, is only offered at a handful of locations.