Fodor's Expert Review Turrialtico Lodge

Dramatically positioned on a hill overlooking the valley east of Turrialba, this Costa Rican–owned rustic wood lodge is a good budget option. An open-sided restaurant occupies the ground floor, above which are large rooms with multiple beds, suitable for groups. Ask for one on the west side—they have balconies with dazzling views of Turrialba and, if there are no clouds, Volcán Irazú in the distance. High-ceilinged cabins in the garden have more privacy, with sliding-glass screen doors that open onto forest or garden. There's also a fascinating orchid garden with hundreds of plants hanging from every available tree limb. The restaurant serves a small selection of authentic Costa Rican and international dishes and is famous for its homemade macadamia fudge. There is a pretty trail through the property to a waterfall.