El Refugio

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with El Refugio's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Acclimation
morning
:

Arrive to a warm welcome and settle into the tranquil rhythms of this hillside retreat. A fragrant cup of coffee and a gentle orientation to the surroundings set a relaxed tone for the days ahead.

afternoon
:

Take a guided stroll around the property to discover shaded courtyards and cooling breezes. Meet the hosts and learn a little about local life as you sample a few pastry bites.

evening
:

Dinner is served with fresh ingredients and regional flavors. The evening slows with soft music and stories that hint at the adventures still to come.

day 2
Markets, Coffee, and Color
morning
:

Begin with a slow morning walk to witness the town waking up and the markets coming to life. A guided tasting introduces the nuances of locally grown coffee and the craft behind it.

afternoon
:

Visit a bustling market to see vibrant produce, handmade crafts, and friendly chatter. Join a short workshop to try your hand at a traditional recipe with a local cook.

evening
:

Dine on a meal that blends rustic flavors with fresh ingredients from nearby farms. The night offers music, laughter, and a sense of community under a starry sky.

day 3
Coastal Trails and Seaside Breezes
morning
:

Set out along a gentle riverside trail where birdsong accompanies your steps. A local guide shares stories of the land and its people as the light softens.

afternoon
:

Continue toward a coastal overlook where the sea meets the forest and a salty breeze attends the journey. A picnic lunch on a shaded bluff invites quiet reflection and a chance to watch boats drift by.

evening
:

Return to the retreat as the golden hour bathes the hills in warm hues. A casual sunset walk leads to a fireside drink and a discussion of the day’s discoveries.

day 4
Volcano Wake-Up and Village Welcome
morning
:

Rise early for a light hike and a refreshing view from a safe, accessible vantage point. Coffee and warm conversation prepare you for a deeper look at local life.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby village to meet artisans and hear legends behind the crafts. Try your hand at a simple workshop that creates a tangible memory of the place.

evening
:

Share a hearty dinner where stories of the land blend with new friendships. Evening winds carry the sounds of the community as lanterns glow along the way.

day 5
River Valleys and Cultural Weavings
morning
:

The morning begins with a stroll by the river, where reeds whisper and light dapples the water. An artisan-led workshop invites you to learn traditional weaving or fiber crafts.

afternoon
:

Visit a small workshop to see the weaving process up close and hear stories from weavers. A slow lunch with regional flavors invites discussion about heritage and daily life.

evening
:

Dinner presents a tapestry of dishes inspired by the river valley and hills. An intimate performance or storytelling circle closes the day with warmth and shared laughter.

day 6
Coffee Farm Walk and Legend Tasting
morning
:

Head to a nearby coffee farm for a guided walk among coffee trees and blooming shade. Learn about harvests, processing, and the care that goes into every cup.

afternoon
:

Meet a farmer who shares local folklore and legends tied to the land. Taste a flight of coffees and hear the stories behind each note.

evening
:

Return to the retreat for a light dinner and reflections on the day’s flavors. The evening closes with calm music and the soft hum of conversation under lantern light.

day 7
Waterfalls, Jungles, and Night Sounds
morning
:

Set out for a morning trek to a hidden waterfall where the pool invites a refreshing pause. A guide points out jungle birds and plants as the trail curls through the forest.

afternoon
:

Wade through a shallow stream and discover natural pools and mossy stones. A picnic lunch in a shaded clearing offers time to recharge before a return walk.

evening
:

Back at the retreat, a soothing rinse and a warm shower prepare you for dusk. Evening activities include stargazing, a light snack, and intimate conversation around the fire.

day 8
Sunrise Peaks and Hot Springs
morning
:

Rise before dawn for a quiet climb that reveals a soft sunrise over the hills. A comforting tea warms the hands as you absorb the quiet majesty of the scene.

afternoon
:

Soak in mineral hot springs surrounded by trees while gentle water sounds echo. A restorative lunch focuses on nourishing, simple flavors and herbal infusions.

evening
:

Return to the lodge to freshen up and share the day’s highlights. An open-air dinner features seasonal dishes and stories sparked by the day’s adventures.

day 9
Markets by Moonlight and Street Food
morning
:

A relaxed morning stroll leads you toward a lively market with bright stalls. You connect with vendors and sample a few bite-sized treats that reveal local flavors.

afternoon
:

A cooking demonstration teaches a signature dish of the region using fresh ingredients. You practice the technique and enjoy tasting your own creation with neighbors.

evening
:

The night market glows with lanterns as music and chatter fill the air. A final stroll along the lane winds down with warm conversations and a sense of belonging.

day 10
Farewell Walk and New Beginnings
morning
:

A reflective morning walk invites you to savor last views and quiet gratitude. Warm aromas and a final cup of coffee accompany a light planning session for future travels.

afternoon
:

A gentle closing activity helps you collect memories and say thanks to new friends. A final meal celebrates the journey with dishes that honour hospitality and place.

evening
:

As evening settles, you absorb the calm and carry a renewed sense of adventure. Goodbyes are shared with promises to return and the knowledge that this chapter remains in you.

Discover El Refugio

Read more in our El Refugio 2025 Travel Guide.

El Refugio Travel Guide