Cartago9.65456500,
-83.84800000,
Carretera Interamericana Sur Km 71(Show on Map)
8.6
Very Good
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Summary of reviewsIyok Ami (Madre Tierra) offers an exceptional escape into the heart of the Costa Rican mountains, presenting visitors with a picturesque retreat within a stunning cloud forest. The hotel is perfectly situated to provide guests with breathtaking views and a tranquil environment, surrounded by a variety of walking trails that offer unique opportunities to observe local wildlife such as hummingbirds and quetzals. The location is lauded as a magical paradise, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and those seeking peace and relaxation.
Guests frequently praise the warm and welcoming atmosphere fostered by the staff, noted for their friendly and accommodating service. Individuals like Bedrich, Shirley, Jairo, and Daniel are recognized for their dedication to providing a memorable experience, from comfortable lodgings to delightful meals. The homemade culinary experiences, particularly breakfast and dinner, receive high commendations for their quality and local flavors, with dishes such as pancakes and trout being standout offerings.
Accommodations at Iyok Ami are described as simple yet cozy, featuring rustic charm that aligns well with the natural beauty of the surroundings. While some cabins may lack sound insulation and heating during cooler nights, they offer comfortable beds with ample blankets, spacious interiors, and stunning views that enhance the stay. Despite occasional remarks about outdated furnishings or upkeep issues, the rooms largely contribute to a satisfactory and restful experience.
The hotel maintains a clean and welcoming atmosphere, although there are occasional mentions of areas needing attention regarding cleanliness and cold drafts. Nonetheless, the establishment provides a comfortable and home-like environment with organic, freshly prepared food that complements the serene setting. Guests can also stay connected with free Wi-Fi, particularly reliable in common areas, making it a convenient feature for those needing internet access. Overall, Iyok Ami delivers an enchanting, nature-immersed retreat with friendly service and memorable dining experiences. Show more
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Bed & Breakfast with Parking
Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) offers free private parking. Guests can utilize the secure and convenient parking facilities available at the property.
Small Bed & Breakfast
The name translates to 'Mother Earth', suggesting a connection to nature and a tranquil setting. Located on the Interamericana Sur highway, it offers a peaceful retreat.
Room Types
Budget Double or Twin RoomThe twin/double room features a private entrance, parquet floors, as well as a private bathroom boasting a bath. This twin/double room provides a TV. The unit has 2 beds.
Budget Single RoomThis single room features a shared bathroom, parquet floors and garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.6
Very Good
Location
Nestled high in the Costa Rican mountains, Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) offers an idyllic escape into nature's embrace. This stunning retreat is perfectly situated in the heart of a cloud forest, providing guests with access to breathtaking views and a serene environment. The hotel is surrounded by a plethora of walking trails, which are ideal for exploring the local flora and fauna, offering unique sightings like hummingbirds and quetzals. The trails within the property not only rival but often exceed the experience found in the nearby Quetzales National Park.
Guests describe the location as a magical paradise and a hidden gem, ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers. Despite its proximity to the road, there's a timeless tranquility that envelops the area, making it the perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat. At an altitude of 2800 meters, the remote setting offers superb forest views directly from the doorstep, truly immersing visitors in the surrounding natural beauty.
The atmosphere at Iyok Ami is welcoming and personal, enhanced by a charming hostess and warm staff. Visitors appreciate the rustic charm and cozy quarters, complete with homecooked meals and breakfast that complement the natural setting. For those looking to relax, hiking trails, a cool hut with game tables, and the opportunity to unwind amid sublime nature make Iyok Ami an exceptional base for mountain exploration and unwinding in nature's magnificence.
Breakfast
Nestled amidst the serene landscape, Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) offers a delightful breakfast experience that has become a cherished part of many guests' stays. The breakfast, often centered around delicious homemade elements, provides a comforting start to the day. Guests frequently mention the pancakes, which are a standout offering, paired with fresh coffee for a simple yet satisfying meal. Complementing the flavors is the stunning view, with wide windows allowing diners to enjoy the sights of local birds, including the spectacular quetzal, during their morning meal.
The culinary experience extends beyond breakfast, with guests appreciating both the dinner and breakfast offerings for their homemade quality and reasonable prices. There are occasional mentions of less-than-perfect experiences, such as limited breakfast choices or the occasional misstep in execution, but these are exceptions rather than the norm. Overall, the combination of delicious food, beautiful vistas, and the chance to connect with nature makes breakfast at Iyok Ami a memorable part of any stay.
Dinner
Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) excels in providing a delightful dining experience, particularly for dinner. Guests have consistently praised the homemade meals, noting their high quality and appealing flavors. The lodgings offer both dinner and breakfast, often described as freshly cooked, super healthy, and very delicious. Many visitors remarked favorably on the preparation and taste of the meals, with the dinner option available as an additional booking, reasonably priced as a bonus feature.
One standout recommendation is the Jamaican flower tea, which has been deemed a must-try. The menu features a selection of dishes that highlight local flavors, with the trout dinner frequently receiving rave reviews. Guests have appreciated the flexibility and accommodating nature of the kitchen staff, as well as the reliably hot, good-quality meals offered. Those dining on-site can expect a simple yet satisfying typical meal, expertly served in a setting that combines home-cooked charm with the ambiance of a restaurant. Overall, Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) provides an impressive culinary experience, marked by expertly cooked dishes that leave a lasting impression.
Rooms
Iyok Ami, nestled off the main road amidst nature and forests, offers guests simple yet comfortable accommodations that seamlessly blend rustic charm with functionality. The rooms feature cozy wooden aesthetics and provide everything needed for a pleasant stay, including comfortable beds and sufficient blankets for cold evenings. While the cabins offer a spacious refuge with essential amenities, there can be issues with sound insulation and room warmth, as heating is absent.
Guests often appreciate the large cabins accompanied by stunning mountain views, further enhancing the appeal of the accommodations. Despite some outdated furnishings, the facilities are regarded as beautiful and stylish, aligning perfectly with the natural surroundings. Though the rooms are pleasant, they occasionally lack adequate upkeep, particularly in shared and attached bathrooms, which can sometimes fall short of guest expectations.
Iyok Ami also entices visitors with its accessibility for backpackers and convenience for those arriving by bus. The hotel features various trails for hiking excursions, allowing guests to explore the natural beauty around them, along with available dining options including breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided by the amiable owners. Iyok Ami offers a simple yet cozy experience, perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.
Beds
At Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra), guests have had mixed experiences with the beds. Several reviews highlight the comfort of the beds with adjectives such as cozy and comfortable, suggesting that many visitors enjoy a restful sleep. There is no shortage of blankets, which is a plus for guests during cooler nights. However, some have noted that certain beds have hard mattresses or are not adequately comfortable. Issues such as sagging mattresses and beds being too short for taller guests have been mentioned. While the bedding quality itself receives positive feedback, some rustic accommodations designed for students might not meet the comfort expectations of all visitors. Overall, the bedding experience at Iyok Ami varies, with room for improvement to cater to diverse guest needs.
Cleanliness
Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) hotel offers a rustic charm with mostly clean accommodations crafted from wood, providing guests with an affordable and cozy stay. Many visitors highlight the cleanliness of the rooms, describing them as spacious and neatly maintained, while the premises generally provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, evoking a sense of homeliness. The hotel boasts freshly prepared, 100% organic food, enhancing the inviting environment. Despite these positive attributes, some guests noted areas for improvement regarding cleanliness in certain spaces and the ability of the structure to handle cold temperatures, suggesting that drafts were present despite the blankets provided. There were isolated complaints about cockroaches and unclean bathrooms, indicating inconsistency in maintenance. Overall, while Iyok Ami offers simplicity and charm with clean basics, there are points needing attention to fully enhance the guest experience.
Staff
Visitors to Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) consistently highlight the exceptional and warm hospitality provided by the staff. Guests are greeted with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, fostered by the kindness and helpful nature of individuals like Bedrich, Shirley, Jairo, and Daniel. Their dedication to service extends from ensuring comfortable stays to preparing delightful meals and offering comprehensive knowledge about the local environment and wildlife. The host's engaging nature and commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the property add to the enriching experience, with an impressive network of trails available for exploration. The staff's attentiveness and willingness to assist at every opportunity create a homely and inviting setting, making the stay memorable for those who appreciate genuine hospitality and the beauty of Madre Tierra.
Wi-Fi
Iyok Ami offers guests a generally positive experience when it comes to Wi-Fi connectivity, with several reviews highlighting the excellent and reliable performance of the network. The hotel provides good Wi-Fi in common areas, which serves as a convenient space for guests to work or chat. These areas are well-equipped, promoting productivity and relaxation for those needing connectivity. While some reviews mentioned issues with Wi-Fi throughout their stay, the presence of free internet shows commitment to guest accessibility. Overall, Iyok Ami delivers satisfactory internet services, particularly in designated communal spaces.
No, Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra).
No, Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra) doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Iyok Ami (Madre Tierra).