Costa Rica | A well-designed little paradise

From the hiking trail that we follow early in the morning, the general silhouette of the city can be seen. One by one, Renae Johnson points out the different sectors of Las Catalinas, from the pioneering buildings erected in 2009 to the current projects, which should be completed in 2026 and built around a future prado (main artery), with shops, sports facilities and houses with breathtaking views.

Currently, there are nearly 200 residences, nestled between a peaceful half-moon beach and hills covered in tropical forest. What strikes you first: the care given to the harmony of the whole. “We have established an architectural framework for the entire village. There are several Mediterranean influences, for example Greek or Moroccan, explains M.^me Johnson, one of the managers of Las Catalinas. The architecture must necessarily be of a traditional type, while using modern techniques and local, sustainable and renewable materials, adapted to the climate of Costa Rica. »

Once back in the heart of the village, we explore the mazes of stones, in a gentle atmosphere, interweaving pastel-colored facades, flights of stairs and alleys, all interconnected by charming public squares. On the fringes, shops and services have been established: bars, restaurants, bakery, spa, outdoor gym, private club, relaxation center, etc.

Who lives in this little paradise? Many homes have been acquired by foreigners, who live there at least part of the year, but also by ticosthat is to say Costa Rican families. “Many real estate projects are initiated in the country, but never see the light of day. Costa Ricans were able to see that our projects were successful, which surely attracted them here,” believes M.^me Johnson. These of course rub shoulders with passing visitors, who can stay at the Santarena hotel, at Casa Chameleon, or in one of the Las Catalinas Collection rental residences, ranging from studios for two people to villas and apartments designed for six. hosts. The prices certainly correspond to high-end accommodation (nights start at $320 excluding taxes), but comfort and character are certainly there.

Riding on preservation

Apart from its unique architecture, the village also stands out for its ecotourism approach, and in particular for the fact that motorized vehicles, grouped in a parking lot on the edge of the city, are excluded from the vast majority of places. Everything is done on foot or by electric cart. In the rare alleys to which cars have access, things calm down. “For these passages, we established winding routes, the idea being to make the driving rather uncomfortable,” explains Renae Johnson.

Another notable choice, rather than building residences at the authorized limit of the waterfront, thus largely cutting off physical and visual access (as is too often seen in Latin American tourist towns), a wide public avenue was been designed so that all walkers can enjoy the maritime spectacle. The neighboring houses were moved back a few meters and slightly raised, to preserve the view and privacy.

And even if construction sites are currently in full swing to continue residential and commercial construction, markers were set straight away: of the 1,200 acres of the estate, 1,000 will be left in the wild, simply dotted with hiking trails (we currently has loops totaling 40 km). In addition, a program to restore and protect the flora, threatened by fires, has been put in place.

The essence of the earth

We also notice abundant plantations throughout the village, and these do not come from nowhere. A few kilometers away, La Estancia was recently founded, a farm with different vocations, including that of ensuring the reproduction of ornamental plants which will later be integrated into Las Catalinas, in the alleys or on the balconies. “We produce a large quantity of organic compost which we use for our plants and gardens, to regenerate the soil, and which we offer to schools and local farmers, to create links with the local community,” says Lucas Currie, responsible for the development of La Estancia. There are also farm animals, such as laying hens, goats, as well as nine horses that can be ridden for a magnificent circuit between the mountains and the deserted beach.

If landing on the sand remains a must, the range of activities offered is wide (see next tab). “We want visitors and residents to be able to stay active,” explains Renae Johnson, herself very dynamic.

Check the website of Las Catalinas (in English)

Part of the costs of this trip were paid by Las Catalinas and Air Transat, which had no right to review the content of this report.

How to get to the Catalinas

The village is located about forty kilometers from Liberia airport. Given the state of the secondary roads (giant potholes!), you should allow an hour to an hour and a half by car. Many car rental companies have a counter at the airport. Otherwise, the village concierge can organize private transport. Note that Air Transat has annualized its direct Montreal-Liberia flights since this year. Other companies, such as Air Canada, Sunwing or WestJet, also offer flights, with or without stopovers.