The Eco Retreat is a very unique place, and we really enjoyed our stay. The Dolphin Room was exactly as pictured, and was perfect for the two of us. The grounds of the retreat are really amazing—we spent two of our four days just hiking and exploring the grounds. We loved taking the trail down to the private waterfall and natural pool (which empties via a 100+ foot waterfall!), and hiking the breathtaking trail down to the coastline. We actually hiked up the stream to the bottom of the tall waterfall, which had a beautiful, secluded pool at its base. These were absolute highlights of our trip that we'll never forget.

William, the Retreat's concierge, for lack of a better term, was extremely helpful and friendly. He introduced us to everything the grounds had to offer, checked in with us periodically, and even helped safeguard some items we left behind after our stay. We never met Kutira; but her husband, Raphael, was a ubiquitous presence on the grounds, always doing some job or another in the proud upkeep of his home, and genuinely concerned with the well-being of his guests.

The retreat's approach to green living also had a clear impact on our experience. It may sound silly, but when you're instructed to conserve water and electricity, or to save food compost for the chickens, you begin to realize how much you typically waste, and you begin to take pleasure in conservation. Even four days of living under these constraints have changed my behavior in ways that I hope will become permanent.

Other highlights: the outdoor shower, the sizable kitchen with separate and labeled shelves and fridge space for each guest, the numerous spots to sit and enjoy breakfast, the charming hand-drawn map of the grounds. Until next time!