All posts by Rebecca Wheeler

OTBT: A Good Sign on Nicoya Peninsula

Discover OTBT in Costa Rica

Of the millions of visitors to Costa Rica, the majority head for the country’s Pacific or Caribbean beaches.  Many venture a wee bit OTBT (off the beaten trail) towards the mountains to experience any number of eco-related  destinations.  All very worthwhile, as the splendor of Costa Rica is in its vast biodiversity.  Yet, something special happens when the intrepid traveler takes off for places not touted on Trip Advisor or promoted by Costa Rica’s tourism board.

otbt
OTBT: Nicoya Costa Rica

Venturing Forth

Guests visiting friends in the less populous beach town of San Miguel on Nicoya Peninsula’s west  coast hoped to experience something unique and different;  not tourist oriented , the day trip promised relief from the oppressive coastal heat and offering a better insight into the local farming culture.  The hosts made a call to another friend who happens to own a large private farm. With thumbs up  the guests were given a map, water and general directions.  Off they drove drove in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle ready for an OTBT adventure.

A Road Less Traveled

After turning off the coastal road, they would meander through dry rainforest and cattle lands, passing families and dogs gathered under shaded trees.  Turning east the paved road gave way to gravel then  compacted, graded red soil.

This is a national road, well maintained yet requiring a four wheel drive during rainy season.  It is traveled mostly by locals, as tourists continue on paved surface over to the Naranjo ferry port. Large parcels of land with humble homes and the occasional gringo villa dot the countryside. Agriculture and cattle the predominant economical use of land surrounded by tropical mountain forests. Here, no big hotels, condos or developed enclaves exist.

Up and across the mountain, a bit curvy in places, snippets of distant lowland views presented, they felt immediate relief from the heat;  Fresh cool mountain air caressing skin and soul. And the lush green of the foliage brought forth a soothing aspect to the eyes.

After a short 35 minute drive, they recognized their OTBT directional landmarks for the farm and were soon greeted by its owner upon entry.  Brief introductions over a refreshing farm grown fruit drink, the travelers were up for a hike around the farm.

Three hours later, they discovered this to be a farm like none other. The owner had transformed the 100 acre farm from denuded and depleted cattle grazing land to a rich, organic and profusely planted refuge. After 24 years, the owner has decided the time is right to find the next stewards of this remarkable property.

Click for details on this otbt property for sale by owner.

Sustainable Farm – Bench Marks

sustainable farm
Have a (sustainable) Seat!

Sustainable Farm Practices

Recycling is but one of many sustainable farm practices.  When a majestic Guanacaste tree, perched high on a hill overlooking the Pacific, was struck by lightening several years ago, its ample trunk was salvaged, cut and dried. The wood from this single tree was used to build furniture, cabinets in the main house pantry, and benches placed throughout the farm’s miles of hiking trails.

One of the benefits of a large, forested property is the abundance Mother Earth provides.  Although once cleared for cattle grazing and coffee crops, this Costa Rica farm, Refugio de Los Angeles, has been lovingly restored with the reforestation of 1,000 trees.  And the rebuilding of its soil to a rich, organic state.

Planted throughout the 100 acre (now organic) farm are fruit trees, vegetables, herbs, medicinal plants, and both medicinal and ornamental flowers (oh, the perfume of the air!).  All of this and a comfortable 3 bedroom main house, a fully appointed guest house, 1575 sq ft workshop and 8-10 building lots ready to develop.

sustainable farm
Sustainable Practices

The owner of this property never intended to profit financially. Instead, it was used to fuel a life-long passion for gardening and a vision to return the land to a bio-diverse environment.

Because of the owner’s vast knowledge base of building hugelkultur raised beds and employing perma-culture principles others have benefited; With the assistance of a local Costa Rican family (farm managers) working alongside her over the years, they have learned and embraced sustainable farm practices, as well.

Passing the Baton

After 23 years of sustainable stewardship of the farm land it is ready for its next venture. The owner hopes to pass the baton to those in search of a quality of life with a lighter ecological footprint. The opportunity exists to develop the farm into a financial success in a variety of ways.

Located in Nicoya Peninsula’s blue zone, the farm is for sale by owner.  We encourage you to review the information and the videos from the main website to learn more.  For questions or to arrange an appointment please use the contact page.