The Retreat Costa Rica has unveiled a $4 million expansion which netted several new additions to the wellness resort, such as an open-air clubhouse, two restaurants and l0 luxury lofts designed for indoor/outdoor living.
Celebrity chef Diana Stobo—founder of the property—conceived the expansion and its new design based on the Sanskrit concept of santosha, a term evoking contentment and acceptance, according to the hotel. "These luxurious new facilities are built to embrace the region’s verdant topography—offering more ways to experience peace, relaxation and connection," Stobo said in a statement.
Drawing inspiration from the area’s natural surroundings, the resort’s new 16,500-square-foot open-air clubhouse features a muted palette of pale woods and soft neutrals accentuated by ancient indigenous relics, vintage pottery and rustic wood furnishings for an old-world feel, according to the company. A guanacaste tree envelops the space while natural wicker light fixtures and textured stone walls are designed to complement a hand-crafted mandala wallcovering.
The clubhouse houses a 5-by-50-foot single-lane lap pool with a mosaic design, as well as a gym and yoga shala. With serene tones and natural elements, the shala is a fluid and organic space—lined with white fabric, globe lights, meditation niches, rock wall trims and back-lit mirrors—inviting inward focus, according to the company. The new fitness studio features elliptical, stationary bikes, a whole-body weight machine and free weights.
View From The Top
The 10 new 945-square-foot Santosha Lofts are designed to provide unobstructed western views of the Nicoya Peninsula and Pacific Ocean, embracing feng shui principles to optimize the wellness experience, according to the company. The firm also noted that natural elements such as wicker light fixtures, natural teak wood furnishings and hand-crafted stone wall accent emphasize a theme of “quiet luxury in nature.” An abundance of muted recessed lighting is designed to continue a mood of relaxation, restoration and luxury.
Atop the clubhouse are two new distinct dining experiences. With views and an upscale coastal ambiance, the resort’s signature restaurant, Mystique, spans 1,000 square feet and seats 42 with booths and two- and four-top round marble tables. Large trees and plants hang overhead while a massive iron fireplace is designed to create a warm and welcoming feel.
La Diosa is a 1,250-square-foot rooftop lounge terrace featuring seating for 36, small plates and artisanal cocktails. The relaxed space includes a sunken sitting area with plush couches, lounge chairs and coffee tables positioned to overlook the surrounding jungle, according to the company. Wooden floors, potted plants and a billowing fabric roof are designed to create an inviting, open-air setting where guests can unwind in nature while enjoying casual dining.