Stayed for a week in July. It was nice, but didn't quite meet expectations.
First, realize that although their website says all Nayara Suites have a great view of the volcano, they don't. Our first room was newer/cleaner, but only had a view of the forrest. Our bell hop actually took initiative to arrange for us to move the second night to a room with a view - thanks Esteban! Our second room had a partial volcano view (half obscured by trees) - but it was better than the first room. The toilet room had something moldy looking growing along the wall behind the toilet. The walls had the miscellaneous dings/dents which made it look a little worn. The indoor shower is fabulous. The outdoor showers were nice but the two heads share the same water source so it was impossible to get both adjusted perfectly temperature-wise. We lost water one morning for about 30 minutes and lost significant water pressure a second morning. Not sure what happened there. The beds are a bit hard for my liking. Used the balcony jacuzzi three times - private and big enough for two.
The breakfast buffet would be better if it had more variety or if you stayed for a shorter duration. It rotates between french toast and pancakes and the rest is typical Costa Rican food. Tried an omelette twice, which was ok. "Grill Night" at Altamira was great, the rest of the meals were ok. Didn't have sushi at Sushi Amor, but the Arroz Verde, coffee mouse and espresso were FANTASTIC. Everything is billed to your room, so I felt like a room number instead of a guest because we were constantly being asked which room we were staying in. This could be done better - just bring me a bill at the end of the meal and give me an option to pay outright or to place it on my room bill. I enjoyed trying the typical food, but I had to keep reminding myself that CR isn't known for great cuisine. After a week, I just wanted something from home.
The pool is technically heated, but it's not warm. In fact, in July, I was cold in the pool. The pool had 3 small pipes with influxes of warm water, but it's just not enough to make the overall temperature comfortable. Also disappointing were the jacuzzis. Those were no warmer than the (cool) pool. The bartender at the swim up bar spoke very little english so ordering was done more by pointing rather than speaking.
The staff generally was very friendly. Esteban (bell hop) and Jonathan (concierge) were great. Jonathan set up all of excursions which went off without a hitch. Jorge, the manager, hosted a happy hour one night at Sushi Amor. When he found out I don't eat seafood, he had the chef prepare me some chicken free of charge. It was a very nice gesture which was really appreciated. The two waitresses at Sushi Amor were my favorite of both restaurants. Didn't try the wine bar because we have something similar locally and we were at happy hour most nights at Sushi Amor (2 for 1 between 4-6).
Had a combo treatment at the spa - exfoliation and 1 hour massage. The girls were very nice, but the exfoliation was actually painful because of the pressure and constant rubbing in the same spot. The massage lacked "technique" that I'm used to here in America. Maybe in CR you don't need to be trained/licensed via school? It was nice to have someone rubbing me, but it was nothing my husband couldn't do. I wish we hadn't spent that $300.
The grounds are manicured beautifully. The environment is very quiet and romantic. We arranged transport from/to the airport via Nayara (they contract with a company) and both of our drivers were fantastic (Norman and Arnando?). The staff speaks great english. Not really a place for kids.
