Asclepios is a Costa Rica retreat centre for those truly committed to their health and wellbeing. It has been named after the God Asclepius, who according to ancient Greek and Egyptian mythology comes from a bloodline dedicated to restoring balance to mankind. The retreat programs are designed to purify your mind as well as your body with nourishing healthy foods and juices, an extensive menu of spa services, yoga and other fitness-related activities. Television and wi-fi are only offered at limited hours; replaced by awe-inspiring views of sugar cane fields, tea plantations, and thick green forest, far removed from anything but natural sounds.
The natural ionised pool with views over the surrounding plantations at Asclepios Wellness and Healing Retreat, Costa Rica. Image © Mary Tilson
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The accommodation at Asclepios retreat centre is simple, yet elegant. Each of the 12 rooms draws inspiration from different parts of the world with a unique story to tell. I stayed in Weng Ching, a Chinese-style single bedroom facing out towards stunning views of coffee and sugar plantations populating the expansive valley below. Other rooms include Aphrodite, inspired by the Greek Goddess of Love which may be more ideal for a honeymoon or The Shamman which has multiple beds, suitable for a group retreat.
Boutique Bliss: Asclepios Wellness and Healing Retreat has just 12 rooms, making it a peaceful and intimate property to escape to. Image © Mary Tilson
Hygeia restaurant is decorated in the calming clean, soft palette seen around much of Asclepios in Costa Rica. Image © Mary Tilson
Organic Gastronomy at Asclepios Retreat
Asclepios offers a selection of juices, healthy smoothies and teas, which come straight from the local plantations. The restaurant Hygeia (meaning health) is attached to the main building and is where all meals are served with views of the property. The food was an absolute highlight, which I find to be crucial to any healing and wellness experience as properly nourishing yourself truly starts from within. Asclepios is different from any other Costa Rica Retreat Center as they promote organic bioenergetic gastronomy; encouraging guests to reconnect with real, nourishing wholefoods by rediscovering the rich, natural flavours of fruit, vegetables and fish. I also felt very well looked after by a friendly server named Pablo, who took the time to get to know me personally and share about the area.
The Fitness Centre offers a modern set up to a decorative backdrop of Ancient Greece at Asclepios Wellness and Healing Retreat. Image © Mary Tilson
The stunning Arabic Hammam is a great addition the retreat program for traditional detoxification and relaxation. Image © Mary Tilson
The Retreat Programs at Asclepios Costa Rica
The Asclepios programs cover everything from weight management to stress reduction or a simple reset and rejuvenation. Generally, the retreat programs require a minimum one-week stay so guests have the time to unpack and unwind from their lives back home. For those with less time, there are short stay programs starting with two night packages.
The onsite Fitness Centre is unique. Sketches of ancient Greek philosophers hang next to tall wooden books shelves and antique leather seating; a modern gym equipped with Cybex machines alongside decor reminiscent of an era long past. The Yoga and Meditation Pavillion is large, light and inviting and the ionised natural pool offers a stunning view as you cool off and reflect on the day. There is a long list of other wellness amenities on site.
Asclepios Spa offers an extensive list of therapeutic treatments including massage techniques from around the world, Reiki, acupuncture, floatation therapy, and naturopathy, to name a few. A unique feature of the property, which is just as beautiful as it is useful, is the large Arabic Hammam used for steam baths, which sits in the garden alongside two hot tubs, and a sauna. If you are not interested in committing your holiday to a full wellness retreat, a day visit to the spa is a great alternative.
Inversions with a view: Mary takes a new perspective with a new friend at Asclepios Wellness and Healing Retreat, Costa Rica. Image © Mary Tilson
How to Get to Asclepios Costa Rica
Asclepios Wellness and Healing Retreat is located in El Cacao de Alajuela, just north of Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose. The property is a short 20-minute drive from San Jose airport. Search flights to Costa Rica.
If you’re looking for a place to truly disconnect, de-stress and nourish your body, mind and spirit, this is an excellent place to retreat. For those with limited time, consider planning a one night or day trip to experience the spa and soak up breathtaking views of Costa Rica.
SHOP Mary’s Coral Lotus Kimono (pictured below) here.
Asclepios encourages guests to disconnect and reflect in the magical mountain location. Image © Mary Tilson
Asclepios offers a peaceful place to escape in the Costa Rican mountains for a weekend or a few weeks at a time. Image © Mary Tilson
Asclepios Costa Rica Retreat Centre
El Cacao , Alajuela, Costa Rica
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The Fit Traveller was a guest of the Asclepios Wellness and Healing Retreat for this stay. As always, the opinions, words and images are authentically our own.
