24
Nov
2010
An early morning with the cows
Camilla milking the cows
Hacienda Guachipelin is not only a hotel, it’s also a working ranch and a home to many animals. There are 12 cows living here together with their baby cows and they provide the hotel with all the milk that is needed. They also use it the milk to produce the cheese that I am completely addicted to. The guests can enjoy both the milk and the cheese in the hotel restaurant, talk about real local produced products.
These cows have to be milked every morning and as a guest you can try this experience. Just the fact that you have to get up early in the morning and before everyone else makes this special.
I didn’t know what to expect when I went to the stable at half past five in the morning. When I got there I was met by three men with three big smiles on their faces. I was wondering what time they got up this morning because they had already finished milking a couple of the cows and they seemed so full of energy. One of the guys showed me how to milk the cow and to my surprise it was easier than I thought. On the other hand it was much harder work then I thought and I was tired after only a few minutes. I let the guys continue in a much higher speed and I thought it was nice to just watch them work.
One of the guys handed me a cup of milk with some kind of flavor in it, it almost tasted like cinnamon. Having in mind that it was made here, it was probably the best milk I’ve ever tasted and it was a good beginning of a new day at the Hacienda.
9
Aug
2010
Tripadvisor Review
A guest from Canada who handles student groups in Costa Rica for the summer vacation wrote the following review on tripadvisor:
I have stayed at the Hacienda now for the past 3 years. Each time for 3 days with a group of High school students.The Hacienda is a unique blend of a working ranch/ hotel. They have certainly improved the food and hotel to make it more comfortable. The rooms are air conditioned and very comfortable. The personal are very friendly and always willing to assist you in any way possible. Some of the staff do not speak english but I never had any trouble having any question or concern dealt with rapidly and effiecently through the main desk, Now, one has to keep in mind that this a working ranch. So yes, there are some animal noises or smells around the sable area. It is the fact that the Hacienda is a working ranch that makes it so special. The hotel offers a variety of adventure activities that are well worth the price. The Hacienda is ideally located a few kilometers from the national park. I recommend this hotel if you are looking for a unique Costa Rican experience. This is why I come back year after year and all my high students always have a positive experience.
To make your reservation for Hacienda Guachipelin call toll free from USA or Canada to 1-888-730-3840 or write to info@guachipelin.com . You can also make your reservation directly on sites like expedia or travelocity . There are great specials for the next 3 months, like $35 per person or the 3rd night free (some restrictions apply).