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Nestled in an old growth forest minutes to Lake Arenal, this secluded retreat center beckons those who want to experience Pura Vida. With the Sabalo River running on two sides, and a 600 foot jungle wall adjoining, a symphony of sound and nature oasis greets you. Walking into the ecosystem soothes the nervous system as it delights you with beauty everywhere. The property’s flowering plants and fruit trees provide food to hummingbirds, toucans, howler monkeys and other species that make their home here. Calm and peaceful energy surrounds you and supports a dropping into a deeper awareness and connectivity. A dragonfly can land on your finger, a morpho butterfly might graze your crown, a tree can fall, shed some weight and then spring back up to continue living. The interconnected web of life is a lived experience here. As a human in this embrace, you can’t help but shift your reality frame.

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This 5 building, 1.5-acre campus was started in 2012 as a wellness-focused destination for travelers and as a resource for the local community. Situated in a serene and protected spot the property is a rare jewel for so many reasons.  The eco-designed buildings take advantage of the year-round temperate air. Many of the bathrooms, the yoga deck and dining spaces are designed as open air covered spaces. Screened bedrooms accommodate up to 24 people with 9 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms.  There are 2 kitchens, 2 dining areas, an office, garage, and a cedar sauna.  The Main Lodge can host even larger groups for day retreats. 

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Location and Reputation

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The property is a 1.5-hour drive from Liberia airport and 3.5 hours from San Jose airport. It is 5 minutes from Lake Arenal where there are plenty of activities, restaurants and excursions to choose from. The Living Forest Retreat Center has gained renown as a venue for hosting world-class international retreats, but also has an established reputation with Airbnb and with local businesses needing accommodations.

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Weekly yoga classes are attended by locals and visitors. Other classes and events include: cooking classes, art classes, children's parties, weddings, journeys with medicinal plants of Costa Rica, dance events, spa days, and more. 

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The Nordic Sauna — with an intermittent dip in the river footsteps away— is a treasured amenity.  It is rented for private use to locals and visitors. With the river dip, completed by relaxing on the veranda, this 2 hour activity has become a cherished experience for visitors.  The sauna can be rented to locals and day visitors for private use.

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There is a small staff along with the owner and volunteers who keep Living Forest going efficiently. Plenty of opportunities exist to expand services, and events and to add more gardens or a building if desired.

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Living Forest has an excellent reputation and a successful digital footprint. If this property is purchased, you will also own the brand if you choose. Since 2013, we've been successful on Airbnb with 165+ excellent reviews and super host status. Local Partnerships include Tico Wind, (the #1 winter destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing in Central America) and Tula Vida Equine Therapy Center. International retreat groups regularly book yoga, healing, dance, writing, drumming and massage retreats. Teachers and participants travel from the United States, Canada and Europe.