Nourished by Franca
Jungle calm, with the ocean close
The jungle edges close to life at Nourished by Franca, but the Pacific is only a short walk away. Set in a villa in Mal Pais, the retreat gives guests an easy route to the beach, where low tide reveals natural pools and sunset is a simple outing on foot. Santa Teresa’s downtown and surf breaks are also within reach by car or a longer beach walk, so wellness time need not mean stepping away from the coast. Franca and Marta guide a health-and-wellness focus, with plant-based meals and vegan, organic, and gluten-free options. A pool, yoga studio, air-conditioned rooms, and Wi-Fi make the stay comfortable between activities. The setting suits travelers who want greenery, nourishing food, and room to slow down while keeping the beach and town in their orbit. Retreat schedules vary, so ask about the specific program before booking.
Highlights
- Low-tide natural pools within an easy beach walk
- Plant-based, brain-boosting meals with vegan, organic, and gluten-free options
- A yoga studio and pool set among tropical greenery
- Guidance from Franca and Marta
Good for
Setting
Tropical greenery surrounds the villa, with the beach about a three-minute walk away. At low tide, natural pools appear along the shore, and sunset is an easy walk. Santa Teresa’s downtown and surf spots are a short drive or a longer stroll along the beach.
A typical day
There is no single daily rhythm to count on across retreats. A day may include wellness activities, meals, and time to enjoy the pool, yoga studio, or nearby beach, but the exact sessions and timings depend on the program. Check the schedule for your chosen dates before making plans.
Accommodation
The villa has air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, towels, and housekeeping, with a pool and kitchen on site. Room layouts and occupancy options are not detailed, so ask the hosts what is available for your dates.
What to bring
Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, and sandals for the warm tropical weather and beach walks. Rain is more common from June through October, so bring a light rain layer; if your retreat includes particular practices, ask the hosts what else to pack.
How to get there
The center’s directions suggest arriving at San José International Airport (SJO), taking a local flight of about 20 minutes to Cobano, then arranging a taxi for the roughly 20-minute drive to the villa. The center can arrange the taxi.
Nearest airport: La Fortuna Arenal Airport (FON) (16 km)
La Fortuna Arenal Airport (FON) is listed as approximately 16 km from the center. Confirm with the hosts whether it works for your itinerary and arrange onward transport before traveling.
Nearest city: La Fortuna
Contact the center through nourishedbyfranca.com to ask about dates and reservation details.
Rates are listed from USD 20, but the rate unit and inclusions are not specified. Confirm the total price and what it covers for your chosen retreat.
Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.
Visit Nourished by Franca websiteClimate
Climate Zone: Subtropical
Best Months: Mar, Feb, Apr
Avoid: Jun, Oct, Sep
The annual average temperature is about 24.9°C, with warmer months in March, April, and May. February through April tend to be driest, while June and September through October are wetter, so conditions can vary noticeably by season.
Location
Frequently asked questions
How close is the beach to the villa?
The beach is about a three-minute walk away. Low tide can reveal natural pools, and sunset is an easy outing on foot.
Is this retreat suitable for beginners?
The focus is health and wellness, but the specific activities and experience level vary by retreat. Ask Franca or Marta about the program you are considering.
What kind of food is served?
Meals are plant-based, with vegan, organic, and gluten-free options. Ask the hosts about menus and how they handle your dietary needs.
How do I arrange a stay?
Contact the center through its website to ask about dates, the retreat program, and reservation details.
Can I get to Santa Teresa's surf spots and downtown?
Yes. They are about a five-minute drive away or roughly a 20-minute walk along the beach.
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