chalet nicholas

About

John and Cathy

Cathy and John photosAfter many visits to Costa Rica, John and Cathy Nicholas moved from New York to Costa Rica in 1991.  They chose Arenal for it’s sacred, majestic beauty, its lush wildlife, its relaxing lifestyle, and its proximity to activities and sites such as Arenal volcano and the beaches!  Chalet Nicholas has been in operation since 1992.

As you enter the private road to this charming Costa Rica Bed and Breakfast, you’ll drive under a flowering bougainvillea, and the magic begins. Suddenly, you are in a clearing, and Chalet Nicholas appears on the hilltop. You will be enchanted by the views you’ll see of Lake Arenal and Volcano Arenal.

Our Gardens

plant bougainvilleaIn the morning, you will wake to the songs of tropical birds. Many of our birds love bananas that attract birds that can sometimes even be fed from your hand.

You may also hear Howler Monkeys in the distance making their early morning rounds.

After a hearty breakfast, Cathy and John will gladly take you on a tour of their tropical botanical gardens; a fantastic collection of Orchids and Heliconias and other beautiful species.

Our Rain Forest

SONY DSCChalet Nicholas Costa Rica bed and breakfast borders a protected, old growth rain forest. From the backyard, guests have access to many acres of natural hiking trails, exceptional bird watching, wildlife and monkeys. Over seventy varieties of birds can be seen in the early morning or late afternoon. You can also enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Arenal and the rain forest.

In the evening, you can watch the dramatic lavender sunsets and star studded skies from a rocking chair on the front porch or read books from John and Cathy’s library.

Climate around Chalet Nicholas

scenery rainbowThe average temperature here is 70 degrees. It is warmer during the day and the sun is strong, but cooler at night (almost never below 60). Bring shorts, jeans, bathing suits, a light rain jacket or poncho, and if you wish, something dressier, although here in the countryside it’s not really necessary – just come and relax!

And we can’t forget to mention our wonderful, friendly great danes. All three of them love to run through the forest daily on our hikes, but they do have their own room at the Chalet.

Non-Smokers Only Please

Our non-smoking policy is very serious to our guests and us. If you are smokers, would you kindly select another location. Thank you for your courtesy to others.  Only the Volcano smokes here.