The Unicorn Lodge in the Cloud Forest of San Gerardo de Dota

We enjoyed our stay at Unicorn and in the Gerardo de Dota area. There were many activities and good restaurants nearby. A caretaker lives next door who was available to help with any problems and to suggest good tour guides. The highlight was a fantastic tour with Melvin Fernandez, who not only found us quetzals but spotted and named almost 50 other birds. The stars were amazing at that elevation but be prepared for cold nights.

This lovely property is at around 7,600 feet, so expect cool weather. We would recommend a high-clearance, 4-wheel drive as the property is about 8 kilometers down a steep, fairly rough, gravel road in San Gerardo de Dota. The lodge is actually more of a fairly rustic cabin. The bath is nice with lots of hot water in the shower and in the lavatory. The kitchen is adequate with hot water in the large kitchen sink. The main heat source for the house is a fireplace. We had a big pile of wood provided including fire starter. There are two very small space heaters, but the house is a bit breezy and well-shaded so expect cool temperatures day and night. Even though the main bedroom is downstairs, we elected to sleep in the loft since it had a more open feel. The kitchen was adequate with cooking tools. Although it was adequately clean, the house and everything in the house could use a good, thorough, deep cleaning. We were without running water for a day because the tank had run dry. We were supplied with adequate drinking water, but, alas, no showers. There are not a lot of supplies in San Gerardo de Dota, so you will want to completely stock up before you arrive. Bring everything you will need. If you are coming from San Jose, there are many fruit/vegetable stands along the road. A good place for other supplies is at the Wal-Mart in Cartago along the highway. There are several nice restaurants within easy driving distance and a couple within easy walking distance. Ryan, the owner, is a friendly guy, but don't expect a lot of communication before you arrive. It was confusing trying to figure out how to reach the place, but fairly obvious once we were in the area. We enjoyed our stay because of the beauty of the area, but got a bit tired of the house always being cold.

This is a paradise. We saw 3 male Quetzals right when driving into the property so birdwatchers will love it here. The property is vast and beautiful. Would stay here again.

Dreamwater is lovely property with water running underneath. It is modern and the bed is very comfortable. Lovely to have space and well positioned in San Gerarado del Dota.

The house and the location were beautiful.

However, there weren't even the basics of basics in the house. We knew we had to get groceries before arriving, but we should have been told to get (or better yet the house should have had) dish soap, a sponge, paper towels....basic things a house should have. There wasn't even salt and pepper.

Also there should be reading lamps next to the beds.

Location: beautiful, Amenities: subpar