Located two hours north of San Jose, beside the Interamerican Highway, La Pacifica is easy to reach on the Liberia bus. Once the summer retreat of a Costa Rican president and named for his wife, the Hacienda became the property of a Swiss immigrant family. Environmentally committed, they gave the hacienda its present focus, although the property is now owned by a corporation. With its large dairy herd, morning milkings provide a fun outing for children. Accommodations are in small bungalows with porches, set under shady trees.
Weekly rates are lowest, as is off-season travel.
Although prices here are slightly higher than many budget destinations, it's worth every penny. The whole place is bliss for families with a love of the outdoors. If traveling on a shoestring budget consider doing your own meals at your bungalow with a camp stove. Nearby Canas has an excellent market with very affordable food. Another option is to camp for free beside the Rincon Restaurant, adjacent to and affiliated with La Pacifica.