Our dear friend Johanna Harmala discovered her slice of paradise in Costa Rica in 2012, and built Living Forest Lake Arenal Retreat Center there herself from the ground up. It is one of the most nurturing, relaxing, special places either of us have ever been, and we can't wait for you to experience it.

(And we're not the only ones who think so! Living Forest is also bursting with 5 star reviews on Trip Advisor.)

check it out!

Living Forest is a magical place right by a jungle in the Lake Arenal region of Costa Rica. We offer vacation accommodation, host retreats as well as classes and happenings for visitors and locals. Yoga, transformation, creativity - life! http://www.lakearenalretreats.com/

photo gallery

Hammock time!

Dining area & studio

A refreshing dip in the river

The casita from the main house

Sunset at the top of the hill

Shared accommodation

Hummingbirds!

View from the studio space

The view over Lake Arenal

Breakfast!

Johanna makes incredible buffet style breakfasts - Gallo pinto (Costa Rican rise and beans) , eggs, delicious fresh fruit such as papaya, pineapple and mango, toast/tortillas, home made jam, local cheese…

The casita