Hanging out in the old woman's corner

1 day ago2 min read

This week we visited the northern mountains of Costa Rica, staying near the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Rincon de la Vieja translates to 'old woman's corner' or perhaps better translated as 'witch's lair' for all the volcanic bubbling pots, hot springs and other geological interesting things. We lounged in the hot springs, zip lined across the canyons, walked on hanging bridges through the tops of the trees and ate terrific food. It was the first time we had slept 'off the boat' since early October.

Late afternoon in the Rincon de la Vieja

We were impressed with the steep roads and the unexpected dryness of this Northwest corner of Costa Rica at this time of year. We found it strange to be back in the land of tourists. The Buena Vista Del Rincon hotel was very laid back and made us feel like we were back at summer camp. There were many young families and several tour groups of europeans. It was a working farm with cows, several corrals of hundreds of horses and lots of activities to keep up busy for a few days.

The horses at the ranch at Rincon de la Vieja adventure park waiting to take tourists up to the hot springs

The climate in the mountains was delightfully cool in the evening, with rain one night and overcast skies. Our room had no air conditioning but we didn't need it. We could see the wind clouds blowing through on the North side of the volcano -- the area in which we had sailed through just two weeks ago--and enjoyed observing for a change -- rather than being in the thick of it! The breeze where we stayed was not too strong and the visibility amazing which made for a very pleasant experience and terrific lounging in the afternoon at the 'El Mirador' (the view) deck at the hotel. We could have stayed a few more days!

Dan getting his adrenalin rush for the week on the zip line. Dan was the first to volunteer to go upside down.

The Pacaya hot springs were amazing and only a 4km via a bumpy tractor ride from the lodge

The week wasn't ALL fun and games. Before heading up into the mountains, Dan had spent several full hot days waxing the hull and topsides of the boat. We also made a couple of trips into town to get supplies and groceries -- which is located about 30 minutes away by car. We've been getting up early to take walks near the marina where we can see monkeys hanging from the trees -- almost every day.

We have several more roadtrips planned in the next few weeks so stay tuned. Pura Vida is in full force.