Hacienda AltaGracia

Hacienda AltaGracia overlooks the beautiful Valle del General in the southern foothills of the Cordillera de Talamanca.

The resort is spread along a hilly ridge, so on arrival you will be collected and then transferred by golf cart to your casita or suite. The resort offers two types of rooms, either a large suite or an even more spacious casita, but both have fine linens, designer bathrooms and terraces with great views. The interiors are neutral, full of dark woods, beige stone and light metals, leaving nature outside to provide the dramatic atmosphere.

When the sun's out, take your meals on the terrace of the signature restaurant, Ambar, for a tasty mix of Costa Rican and international dishes, or head to El Bistro for a casual evening of ceviche and empanadas.

Around the hotel, expect to see red-brick roads that lead to the fitness centre and wine store, pretty little streams surrounded by tropical gardens, and well-groomed horses dotted around the paddocks.

In-between meals, visit the stables, which house over 40 horses, and saddle one up for a lesson in the dressage ring or a ride along the mountain trails. If it's been a while since you've ridden, you'll be thankful for the spa treatments offered at the Auberge Spa, and most particularly the 'Rider's Sports Massage'.

If horse riding isn't your thing, then wallow in the monumental indoor pool, go mountain biking, visit a coffee farm high up in the hills or wake up early for a scenic microlight flight over the mountains.