Generally, we don't like all-inclusive resorts located miles from anywhere without any options. Yet based on the recommendation of someone who shares many of our non-negotiable requirements, we selected the Bosque Del Cabo for our winter escape. On the remote Osa Peninsula, it's surrounded by rich rain forests on three sides and the Pacific Ocean on the fourth.
Basically, the place appeals to two types of independent travelers who want to stay for more than a night or two: those who want a wide variety of physical activities - from horseback riding to fishing to kayaking to waterfall rappelling - and those who are content with hiking through a pristine rain forest with its wealth of unique flora and fauna. If you're the former, be prepared: the menu of activities includes extra costs. But for people content with hiking with a pair of binoculars, the time you spend does not have to be extravagant. In other words, the Bosque rate only includes room, board, Wi-Fi, and unlimited access to the manicured gardens, remote beaches, and the magnificent forests.
Now, about those basic requirements: We found the accommodations above average for a civilized "Eco lodge." Certainly not overly luxurious, it wasn’t roughing it either. With a high thatched roof, our wood cabina consisted of a large room with a comfortable king-sized bed, a dressing area, and bathroom. Its best features: an outdoor shower and a large deck overlooking the ocean. From the deck, we spotted toucans, parrots, macaws, pelicans, vultures and monkeys. Because Bosque is located in a vulnerable environment, the owners have a passion for sustainability, even providing toiletries that are ecologically safe.
With just one comfortable bar area and an attractive, outdoor dining room, Bosque didn’t offer alternatives. But the menu for each meal provided enough variety to satisfy most tastes. Dinner was served buffet style with lots of vegetables, fish, meat and dessert. All were extremely well prepared. For couples who wanted to be romantically by themselves, there were tables set for two, but for those who enjoyed socializing with others, there was a communal table.
Bosque is not for everyone. Anyone who contemplates staying there should do a little research to assure that it’s just what they want. We did and it met or exceeded our every expectation.