Rancho Margot

Owned by the local Sotheim family, Rancho Margot is a sparkling example of sustainable tourism and self-sufficient development in the region. The Sotheims have tirelessly strived to go beyond standard sustainable practices and spearheaded several conservation projects in the area along with an arrangement with Monteverde Conservation League for creating the Rancho Margot Ranger Station within the Children’s Eternal Forest. Seductively located on the shores of Lake Arenal and the Cano Negro River Valley, and encircled by a lush rainforest, this thoroughbred eco-lodge is also hailed for its wide assortment of education, wellness and adventure activities. The owners are constantly doing their bit for sharing their vast knowledge on sustainability and eco-conservation with visitors through countless creative and educational environmental programs. Apart from being a working ranch, this quaint countryside charm sporting property also features a full working dairy farm, a tiny pig farm, an organic vegetable/fruit garden, a medicinal plant area and a chicken farm. Rancho Margot is also involved in Animal rescue and reintegration with an on-site center dedicated to the cause. This unassuming holiday retreat with a heart trims the more extravagant frills offered by other eco-resorts, while concentrating on offering its guests an intimate, family style environment and an unadulterated natural experience.

Amenities and Activities

Rancho Margot’s nonchalant appearance deceptively hides a huge selection of nature based activities and adventure tours offered to its guests. The lodge organizes everything from exciting horseback rides (to Mirador) to Kayaking tours on the Lake Arenal to a thrilling wildlife night hike within the adjoining jungle. An interesting tour of Rancho Margot’s organic sustainable ranch along with day trips to nearby attractions are also much sought after guest activities. The ranch features is a full-fledged Healing Center (in a beautiful, secluded spot, amidst verdant gardens and above a tiny brook), where guests can experience pure relaxation with revitalizing massage treatments and Reiki sessions. Rancho Margot also holds yearly yoga training sessions along with offering the perfect setting for conducting yoga retreats (Tai chi, Qigong, Reiki and Acupuncture as well). The working ranch has a large selection of educational programs and workshops for both –adults and children. In addition to this, the ranch has a restaurant, a bar, Wi-Fi internet access and natural cool/hot water pools. This self-sustaining farm epitomizes the spirit of healing and learning in the backdrop of natures’ pristine energy.

Accommodation

Accommodation at the Rancho Margot is available in the form 17 deluxe bungalows, nicely hidden within its spectacular botanical gardens. Each tastefully appointed wooden finish bungalow is equipped to accommodate up to 4 people, and features a private bath (with shower) along with a private terrace (from where guests can enjoy breathtaking views of their natural surroundings), two queen beds or one queen bed and two singles (all beds with orthopedic mattresses) and hammock. They also have a dormitory style bunk house, where budget travelers, volunteers and students are put up in minimalist but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms. The bunkhouse features 5 showers, 5 toilets and a common space for everyone to get together and enjoy.

Rates

The nightly rate on single and double occupancy is $ 90 USD and $ 75 USD respectively for the bunkhouse. A 4 days and 3 nights bunkhouse package with a couple of adventure tours thrown here can set you back by $ 249 USD and $ 210 USD for single and double occupancy respectively. Rates include three meals a day, yoga classes twice a day, a guided tour of the ranch and the use of all Rancho’s facilities. Bungalows are charged at $ 150 USD and $ 115 USD per night for single and double occupancy respectively. The 4 days and 3 nights package here is charged at $ 410 USD and $ 310 USD for single and double occupancy respectively.

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