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Summary of reviewsShawandha Lodge, nestled in the heart of a tropical rainforest, offers a serene escape for guests seeking tranquility and a taste of nature's beauty. Located conveniently between Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo, the lodge provides easy access to pristine beaches like Playa Chiquita, as well as local restaurants and shops. This ideally positions visitors to enjoy stunning shores and local amenities while maintaining a peaceful retreat away from the busy party scene. Accommodations combine cozy cabins and spacious cottages that blend seamlessly with the lush surroundings, offering a perfect retreat for families, couples, and groups.
The breakfast experience at Shawandha Lodge is often praised for its quality and variety, featuring typical Costa Rican dishes that guests enjoy. Despite some occasional shortages and requests for more variety, the breakfast is generally highlighted as a memorable lodge feature. Dinner at the onsite restaurant is noted for its fine flavors, although the pricing is higher than nearby alternatives, leading some guests to explore other dining options in the region. The restaurant’s enchanting setting is complemented by tasty meals, although improvements in service hours and pricing are suggested.
The lodge's rooms provide a unique opportunity to immerse in nature, surrounded by tropical gardens and dense rainforest. Guests appreciate the spacious interiors, which often feature verandas and hammocks, and many highlight the cleanliness and stylish design. While some minor issues like humidity and lack of certain amenities are mentioned, the overall experience is enchanting, offering a peaceful sanctuary amidst nature. Cleanliness throughout the lodge is generally commended, although feedback on room maintenance can be inconsistent at times.
Staff at Shawandha Lodge are frequently lauded for their genuine friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that guests appreciate. The professionalism and dedication of team members, particularly at reception, enhance the guest experience and ensure a high standard of care. Although WiFi connectivity can be unreliable, especially in rooms, this aligns with the lodge's emphasis on providing a natural retreat.
The pools provide a picturesque setting for relaxation, often noted as a key attraction with their beauty and tranquil ambiance. Guests enjoy the accessibility and pleasant temperature of the pools, complemented by lush surroundings. While maintenance feedback is occasionally mixed, the pool areas remain an inviting feature for a delightful vacation experience.
In conclusion, Shawandha Lodge stands out as a charming destination for nature enthusiasts seeking both adventure and serenity, offering a favorable quality-to-price ratio with its three-star designation. Despite minor areas for improvement, the lodge provides a memorable stay where natural beauty, comfort, and attentive service come together seamlessly. Show more
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Categories
Lodge with Swimming Pool
This lodge features a swimming pool.
Outdoor Pool
3-Star Lodge
Located in Playa Chiquita, Shawandha Lodge offers an eco-friendly experience. Its integration with nature and commitment to sustainability make it a unique choice.
Lodge with Outdoor Pool
Located in Playa Chiquita, this lodge offers a serene retreat. It features an outdoor pool.
Lodge with Parking
Accessible Lodge
Room Types
Standard Quadruple RoomThis quadruple room features a seating area, a private bathroom and hardwood floors. It offers a terrace with views of the property's garden.
Standard Double RoomThis double room features a seating area, a private bathroom and hardwood floors. It offers a terrace with views of the property's garden.
Standard Triple RoomThis triple room features a seating area, a private bathroom and hardwood floors. It offers a terrace with views of the property's garden.
Little CabinThis bungalow has a seating area, private entrance and sofa.
Deluxe Double RoomThis double room features a seating area, a private bathroom and hardwood floors. It offers a terrace with views of the property's garden.
Deluxe Triple RoomThis triple room features a seating area, a private bathroom and hardwood floors. It offers a terrace with views of the property's garden.
Superior Double Room - Adults OnlyThis room features a private bathroom and a private terrace with direct access to the pool. Adult only. Children are not allowed in the Tippie area.
Premium Quadruple RoomGuests will have a special experience as this quadruple room features a pool with a view. The quadruple room offers air conditioning, a private entrance, a terrace with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a walk-in shower. The unit offers 3 beds.
Superior Family RoomThis family room features a pool with a view. The spacious family room provides air conditioning, a private entrance, a terrace with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a walk-in shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
Location
Nestled in the heart of a tropical rainforest, Shawandha Lodge offers a serene escape just outside the lively town of Puerto Viejo. The lodge is perfectly positioned between Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo, offering excellent access to both destinations while maintaining a tranquil ambiance away from the bustling party scene. Guests can enjoy the calming sounds of nature, as the lodge is surrounded by beautiful greenery and diverse wildlife.
A standout feature is the lodge's proximity to the pristine beaches, with Playa Chiquita just a short 300-meter walk away via a charming path. The location is ideal for beach lovers seeking quiet, stunning shores at their fingertips. Beyond the beach, visitors appreciate the proximity to local restaurants and shops, providing convenience without sacrificing the lodge's peaceful setting.
The accommodations themselves, including cozy cabins and spacious cottages, are beautifully integrated into the natural environment, providing a comfortable and private retreat. The setting is perfect for families, couples, and friends, offering ample opportunity for relaxation amidst the lush rainforest. With helpful staff and a tranquil, well-maintained property, Shawandha Lodge is a perfect option for those craving both adventure and serenity.
Breakfast
Shawandha Lodge offers guests a breakfast experience that is mostly praised for its quality and variety. Many reviews highlight the buffet as substantial, varied, and delicious, providing a typical Costa Rican breakfast including fruits and gallo pinto that guests enjoy. The egg station and other options are noted for making the breakfast rich and tasty. The breakfast setting is cozy, contributing positively to the overall lodge experience. Several reviews mention the breakfast as a standout feature, often described as excellent, spectacular, and superb.
However, a few guests have critiqued the variety and availability, particularly noting that food items sometimes are not replenished promptly. This has led to a less satisfying experience for guests arriving later in the morning, when certain buffet items may be depleted. Some guests feel the breakfast could offer more diversity in choices, particularly in fruit options, and note that the breakfast can be simple or meager at times. Despite these occasional limitations, the breakfast at Shawandha Lodge generally receives favorable comments for its quality and adequacy within the context of a three-star lodge experience.
Dinner
Shawandha Lodge offers an exquisite dining experience with its on-site restaurant noted for its tasty meals. Guests have remarked that the culinary offerings are of a good standard, featuring fine flavors that many find enjoyable. However, the restaurant is regarded as one of the more expensive options, with prices positioned higher than those of nearby establishments. While some guests find the cost excessive relative to their dining experience, there are nearby dining alternatives that provide excellent meals. Service at dinner has room for improvement, and some guests have suggested extending the restaurant's hours to enhance convenience. Despite its enchanting setting and quality dishes, the restaurant's pricing may prompt some guests to seek transportation to explore other dining options in the area.
Rooms
Shawandha Lodge offers a unique experience for those seeking immersion in nature, nestled among lush tropical gardens and dense rainforest. The accommodations are predominantly characterized by large and beautiful standalone cabins, with spacious interiors that often feature verandas and hammocks, providing guests with a comfortable retreat. Many reviews highlight the cleanliness and maintenance of the rooms, describing them as very clean and well-kept. Guests appreciate the comfortable beds and stylish design, with some rooms boasting breathtaking bathrooms.
The setting allows for a tranquil escape, where guests can enjoy the soothing sounds of nature, including howler monkeys and various bird species. The bungalows and cabins are noted for their uniqueness and beauty, offering an invitation to relax and enjoy the serene environment. Spacious family lodges and villas cater to larger groups, ensuring comfort with cozy interiors and magical surroundings.
However, it’s important to note issues with humidity and some lack of amenities like air conditioning and televisions, which might affect comfort for some. Instances of needed repairs, dusty cabins, and occasional issues with infrastructure have been mentioned, although these do not overshadow the overall enchanting experience the lodge offers. Overall, Shawandha Lodge stands out as a peaceful sanctuary, perfect for those eager to embrace nature with comfortable rustic accommodations.
Beds
Nestled in an alluring setting, Shawandha Lodge offers a mix of experiences when it comes to sleep comfort. Many guests have praised the comfort and cleanliness of the beds, describing them as cozy and highlighting their large size. Some reviews mentioned beds that were not only big but also very comfortable, contributing positively to the overall lodge experience. However, not all feedback was glowing. Several guests encountered issues with older mattresses that were hard, worn out, or uncomfortable, impacting their ability to rest well. Pillows also received criticism, with some described as smelly or in need of replacement. While the lodge's rooms are sizable and aesthetically pleasing, the inconsistency in bed comfort suggests the need for upgrades to ensure a universally relaxing stay.
Cleanliness
Nestled in lush green surroundings, Shawandha Lodge captivates guests with its beautiful grounds and harmonious integration with nature. Many visitors praise the facilities for their cleanliness and the overall maintenance of communal areas, which is further enhanced by the serene beauty of the natural vegetation. The accommodations are notably clean, simple, and lovely, offering spacious and luxurious options that remain very clean and secure. Shawandha Lodge's pool, while occasionally short on maintenance, is usually regarded as clean, inviting guests to relax in its refreshing waters.
Despite these positives, feedback on room maintenance is somewhat mixed. Although some guests find their rooms exceptionally clean and applaud the daily provision of fresh towels, others have highlighted inconsistency in room cleanliness and service efficiency. Concerns have also been raised about the need for improvements in linens and towels, which some say are frayed and in need of replacement, detracting from the otherwise pleasant experience.
Nonetheless, Shawandha Lodge continues to offer guests a delightful stay with a favorable quality-to-price ratio, amidst a beautifully maintained environment, making it a charming destination for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility in a well-kept setting.
Staff
Nestled in the heart of a lush jungle, Shawandha Lodge offers an enchanting stay complemented by a notable staff presence that enhances the experience. Guests frequently highlight the genuine friendliness and helpfulness of the team, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors often remark on the staff’s attentiveness and eagerness to help with any needs, ensuring a seamless experience in this beautiful setting. Reception personnel like Diana, Maria Jose, Daniela, and Ingrid are commended for their exceptional hospitality and professionalism, making guests feel valued and cared for. Staff at the lodge excel in creating a friendly environment—from reception to all corners of the resort, showcasing kindness and attention to detail.
Despite a few isolated instances of less accommodating service, the overall impression is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the staff’s dedication and commitment to excellent service. The team’s courteous nature and enthusiasm are key highlights noted by guests, who appreciate the staff’s efforts to maintain a high standard of care and prompt service. The lodge’s eco-friendly principles are mirrored in the staff’s engagement with guests, making Shawandha Lodge a favored retreat for those seeking tranquility and attentive service.
Wi-Fi
Nestled in a tranquil, remote setting, Shawandha Lodge offers a serene escape for guests seeking a break from the bustling world. However, for travelers who need to stay connected, the WiFi experience might be less than optimal. Reviews often highlight that the WiFi connectivity is weak and tends to be unstable, especially in certain areas like rooms. While some guests have found the internet to be excellent on occasion, the general consensus suggests that the connection can be slow, spotty, and even nonexistent at times. The lodge seems to prioritize the natural experience over digital convenience, which might explain the lack of consistent WiFi service. For guests reliant on internet access, an improvement in connectivity would be welcomed. Nevertheless, WiFi is available throughout the property, allowing moments of connection amidst this remote retreat.
Pool
Shawandha Lodge offers a picturesque setting for relaxation, with pools that are often highlighted as a key feature by guests. The pool areas are praised for their beauty and spacious design, providing a refreshing oasis amid the lodge's lush surroundings. Visitors frequently commend the pools for being well-located and offering convenience and comfort with their accessibility and temperature, making them an ideal spot for cooling off in the tropical heat. The tranquil ambiance around the pool allows for a serene experience, perfect for unwinding at any time of the day. The lodge's main pool and its smaller counterparts provide ample opportunities to enjoy a swim or simply relax poolside, complemented by the nearby small beach. Guests can enjoy the aesthetic appeal of beautifully laid-out pool areas, which are paired with great service and a pleasant common area. While there are occasional notes on maintenance and cleanliness, particularly regarding chlorine levels and upkeep, the overall impression remains positive, offering both an attractive and functional space for a delightful vacation experience.
3 Star
Nestled in a lush, mini forest, Shawandha Lodge offers a serene and beautiful environment, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers. The spacious bungalows stand out for their beauty and are nicely equipped with impressive bathrooms, providing a comfortable stay. Despite its three-star designation, Shawandha Lodge surprises guests with exceptional service and facilities, contributing to its reputation as an incredible hotel. However, for those with dietary preferences, particularly vegans, the breakfast options might not fully satisfy, as the offerings are simple and lack variety. While the overall experience at Shawandha Lodge is positive, the price-quality ratio is an aspect worth considering.
Outdoor Pool
The outdoor pool at Shawandha Lodge receives praise for its beauty and pleasant location. Guests appreciate the private access to certain pools, which they find both appealing and convenient. The pool area is enhanced by the surrounding lush gardens, adding to the overall aesthetic experience. While some guests note that the pool for the back cabins may be smaller than expected, the picturesque setting and good temperature of the water make the pools an inviting feature of the lodge. The natural environment, complemented by the presence of local wildlife, contributes to a tranquil and enjoyable atmosphere around the pool areas.
Yes, Shawandha Lodge has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Shawandha Lodge.
No, Shawandha Lodge doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Shawandha Lodge.