It's a very rocky road (literally) to get there, b...

It's a very rocky road (literally) to get there, but it is so very worth it. Rancho Margot is a wonderful place for nature lovers and people who wish to learn about sustainability, and more. This place can appeal to all of your senses. Every day I was surrounded by the wonderful sounds of the rustling trees, singing/chirping birds, and crowing roosters. I was enveloped in green, with highlights of other beautiful colors, from the varied and lush greenery from the plants and trees, as well as lovely flowering plants. There are walking paths that snake their way through the grounds, also beautifully lined by flowering trees and plants.

Everywhere you look, trees, shrubs, and herbs were planted to serve to be both ornamental and beneficial for human, animal and land alike. Their mission to demonstrate self sustainability, teach about nature, agriculture and horticulture, and much more, is commendable and great for travelers and students alike. Everything is made to look as though it fits right into its natural surroundings. Keep in mind, you are in a rainforest and this is not your typical resort. Don't expect lux or high end. On the other hand, it's not glamping either. From my bungalow (#4), I could see and hear the life of the rainforest and the farm around me, both while inside the bungalow and outside on the porch.

The staff and the volunteers were always friendly and always ready to help. I felt so welcomed and I was able to ask them for help with my tours and excursions.

There are awesome hiking/walking trails on the grounds. One is a forest trail, another loops around the river and pools, and a more challenging steep uphill trail leads to a lookout point, overlooking Lake Arenal and Volcano on a clear day.

The tour of the grounds was very informative and gave you a great view of the property and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The whole process of the lodge is just amazing from eating what's grown, to the animals getting the good food mostly from the vegetation on the land, and the even the use of their waste for fuel. Harnessing the power of water for electricity and for the pools. Most everything is recycled and reused in some way. Most of the furniture, windows and doors are handmade by skilled carpenters on the premises. This is also a great tour to take if you're not staying at the ranch.

The food was absolutely wonderful : very fresh and tasty. For those who have not had REAL, unadulterated dairy, this is the place to try it. I'm talking to you, butter lovers. lol I really like the fact that you can drink the water right from the spigot in the bungalows and around the grounds: I always carry a water bottle and was able to fill it easily while walking around.

I took advantage of the massages offered. The massage hut is set in the midst of trees and you can hear the stream from the river flowing by, along with all of the birds. It was so very peaceful. The Pools were nice, but unfortunately I didn't get to experience the warm pool, as it hadn't warmed yet by the times I got in.

Now, if you are squeamish about insects of any kind, know that they are going to be around and may be in your bungalow/bunk. A warning for those who aren't used to the effects of humidity: Don't bother styling your hair, it takes forever for anything to dry, and much of your things might feel slightly damp when you put them on...this goes for the sheets and towels as well on high humid days.