Costa Rica

Three pals pooling resources to build their own luxury beachfront boutique hotel is the stuff of dreams, and exactly what Costa Ricans Harry, Luis and Meni did to create Nantipa. The result? An independent destination that redefines bare-foot luxury over the chain-led alternatives in this rugged Central American country.

Hard to reach but worth the extra effort to discover, Nantipa is in the authentic town of Santa Teresa; take in the wildlife of Cabo Blanco National Natural Reserve – white- tailed deer, pacas, armadillos, anteaters, howler and capuchin monkeys, ocelots, jaguarundis and margay cats – a mile-long sandy beach with snorkelling galore (andgreat for surfing). Add to all that
a yoga and wellness centre, 17 spacious bungalows and suites, thatched-roof restaurant Manzú – for tacos, grilled picanha, fresh Malpaís fillet sea bass – and breathtaking views of the ocean and sunsets. Let the kids run wild. And relax.

Doubles from £260.

Words by Dominic Hart.