Rancho Armadillo Estate Hotel — Hotel in Sardinal

Rancho Armadillo is a one of a kind hotel. The overall ambiance is classic Costa Rica charm with a million little details to notice and enjoy. In the dry season we definitely appreciated the pool for cooling off and resting between our outings and adventures. The A/C in the rooms was great at night. There is an upper level open air covered lounging area with hammocks, books, and rocking chairs to chill out in and enjoy the sights of the amazing landscaping and scenery, and sounds of the birds. The magic of Rancho Armadillo is in the service provided by Rick, the owner. Your experience begins when you arrive and get a tour of the property. He provides helpful suggestions for food, day trips, and even local knowledge to help avoid traffic! Then there is the breakfast which hands down is the best part of your day. Fresh local fruits, smoothie, selection of breads and cereals, and Rick’s special waffle bar are beyond compare. Rick even happily adjusted for our vegan diet. He also gives you use of his full restaurant kitchen if you want to cook - and he will also cook for you OR give you a cooking lesson at cost of ingredients. Rick truly thinks of everything. This place is not down in the thick of the tourist area of Playas de Coco. It’s certainly walkable to the beach in about 20-30 minutes, if you are in decent condition, but it’s hot and uphill. If you like your vacation lodging to be unique, a little out of the way, and to have a ton of character, then Rancho...

We trusted all the amazing reviews and booked 2 nights at Rancho Armadillo with Rick. It was our first trip to Costa Rica and Rick was so patient with all the questions I asked while we were in the planning phase, and he provided great information and suggestions that proved to be spot on. The property is beautiful with stunning views, and feels secluded & private despite being a few minutes drive from town. I wish we could have stayed longer, just to spend time relaxing at the pool, in the hammocks, etc. Rick has a masseuse that he contracts with, and he arranged massages for us in advance of our arrival, which was the perfect way to unwind after the long flights. The massages were heaven, and Melissa, the masseuse, set up her table on an open air patio near our room. We listened to the birds and enjoyed the gentle breeze. What an experience! Rick prepared a multi-course dinner for us, which could possibly be the best meal I've ever had. He went shopping to pick up vegan ingredients to accomodate me, and made my friend's meal using regular dairy & cheese. Our room was spacious & comfortable, and the firm mattress was a dream. Rick was an incredible host, and provided wonderful, personal service. The website looks like it's from 2005, but don't let that scare you off. I can't recommend Rick & Rancho Armadillo...

It's all about Rick the owner. Rick will arrange tours. Rick will arrange pickup from the Liberia Airport and back. Rick will give you tips on where to go and not to go. Rick will drive you to town for dinner and then come and pick you up after. Rick will drive you to the ATM. Rick will drive you to the grocery store. Rick will make you dinner. Rick will make you breakfast every morning. He is truly an amazing person and made our 4 night stay very special. Certainly the hi light of our stay was going on a boat trip for 4 hours that Rick arranged. We not only caught some fish and we are not fishermen or fisher persons. But we did. Going on a boat tour gives you a whole different perspective of the area. We ended snorkelling on a reef which was pretty cool to see giant turtles and of colourful fish. His hotel up hill from the town of Coco where there are all sorts of...