• Simple accommodation for nature lovers
• Explore rainforest, volcanoes and botanical gardens
• Outdoor pool and sunbathing deck
• Family-friendly
• Enjoy local and Mediterranean dishes

Selva Verde Lodge is in Costa Rica's Sarapiqui Preservation Area just two hours north of San Jose. The lush rainforest is home to many species of monkeys and birds. The lodge has a team of naturalist guides ready to share their knowledge and enthusiasm, to help you make the most of your time here. This place is about the environment rather than the accommodation, though it's comfortable enough.

River lodge rooms are in blocks of four, each room accommodating up to four guests each. They are all en-suite, have ceiling fans to keep the bedroom cool, and a veranda for relaxing in seclusion. The rainforest bungalows are air-conditioned, have hot drink facilities and additional space indoor and out, with generous balconies. They are set about a 10-minute walk from reception and are very private. Families and small groups can be housed in La Casona Rainforest Suite, which has two bedrooms and bathrooms, a living room and kitchen, and space for extra roll-away beds. It is fully air-conditioned.

The two-storey main building has an upper dining hall, open for all meals, and a lower restaurant which serves dinner each evening, specialising in Italian food. Both rooms overlook the river. There's also a bar which serves a wide range of drinks. The lodge has an attractive outdoor pool, ideal for cooling off on a hot day, and a sundeck with plenty of loungers. Walking trails criss-cross the gardens and give you the chance to view flora and fauna.

As well as exploring the local rainforest you'll be well placed for visiting Braulio Carrillo National Park, Arenal and Poas volcanoes and Heliconia Island Botanical Gardens.