What’s Included:
Seven nights of shared accommodations at a beautiful beach front hotel and resort located just outside of downtown Pavones, Costa Rica. All rooms equipped with Air conditioning, a small refrigerator, and a safe
Five Guided Bike Rides of 5-15 miles each.
Daily healthy breakfast at resort
Five homemade lunches (one self-pay)
Six dinners (one self-pay)
Private dolphin tour with snorkeling and organic farm to table lunch
Horseback Riding on the beach
Tidal pools and beach walks
Time to relax on the beach, or at the pool
Casado and Ceviche night
Poke Beach Party
Round trip transportation from Golfito Airport to resort
Hardtail bike rental
Meet Your Guide:
Laura hails from Northern Virginia but found her soul in the lowcountry of South Carolina. A proud Coastal Carolina University alum with degrees in Physical Education, English, and a Masters in Teaching, she spent 15 years inspiring students before diving into the world of eco-tourism with Glass Bottom Kayak Tours. There, she guided groups of up to 30 guests through the stunning estuaries and barrier islands, sharing her love for the natural world.
In 2022, Laura and her fiancé Tyler decided to take the plunge and make southern Costa Rica their full-time home. With their trusty dog Gadget and cat Gizmo in tow, they settled in Pavones, where they could live surrounded by nature, waves, and endless adventure. When she’s not on her bike (she’s been riding since 1982!), Laura’s likely out surfing, snapping photos, reading a good book, or sipping on a perfect cup of coffee. Adventure is her lifestyle—and she’s ready to share it with you! See More…
What airport do I need to fly into?
We will be picking up our guests from the Golfito, Costa Rica airport. To get to Golfito, you should fly into SJO (San Jose). From there, you will be flying a connecting flight to Golfito. We will assist you with booking your Sansa Airlines flight into Golfito. (https://flysansa.com/)
What type of rides will we be doing?
We will have 5 guided rides for this retreat that vary in length from 5 to 15 miles. The riding surface will mostly be dirt roads, but there may be some singletrack and pavement mixed in. There are definitely some steep hills in the area, and a few places where the incline can be tough, but we aren’t above walking if and when we need to.
What is your cancellation policy?
No one wants to cancel on an event like this, however, we understand that things happen. Once a deposit is paid, it is non-refundable. After the deposit is paid, the balance is due 21 days prior to arrival and is also non-refundable unless we fill your spot, in which case we will issue you a refund for the final balance. We recommend trip insurance.
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes. Most airlines accept bikes. Your connecting flight from San Jose to Golfito via Sansa will take bikes as well. We do have the option for you to use a rental bike, and that’s included in the price. If you bring your own bike and are comfortable assembling it upon arrival, we’ll help by deducting $200 from the retreat price.
More Details
Pavones Retreat Adventure
June 15-22, 2025
Get ready for an unforgettable week of adventure, discovery, and relaxation in the tropical paradise of Pavones! Here’s everything you need to know about your upcoming escape:
Oceanfront Accommodations & Delicious Meals
Spend 7 magical nights in a charming, boutique-style oceanfront hotel. Every room is thoughtfully designed with at least two beds and a cozy sitting area—perfect for unwinding after an active day. Each room also features a mini-fridge, a secure safe for your valuables, and a bathroom with hot water and air conditioning to keep you comfortable.
The hotel’s sparkling pool is a great place to relax, but remember: no glass by the pool and it closes at 8:00 PM.
Room assignments will be randomly selected, but don’t worry—you and your travel buddy can room together if you let us know in advance!
When it comes to food, we’ve got most meals covered! Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served daily, with a couple of special self-pay outings to support the wonderful local restaurants of Pavones. These include:
- One lunch in downtown Pavones ($10–$20 per person).
- One dinner featuring delicious pizza and Italian cuisine ($25+, excluding alcohol).
If you have dietary restrictions, let us know before booking, and we’ll ensure our talented culinary team and hotel staff accommodate your needs.
Adventure on Two Wheels
Pavones is a hidden gem, and exploring its beauty means biking through a mix of terrains! From rugged dirt roads to scenic flat stretches, you’ll experience it all. Most rides are “out and back” routes, offering unique views every step—or pedal—of the way.
We recommend hardtail bikes for their versatility, and they’re the go-to choice among local riders here. If you’re ready to embrace the adventure, here’s what’s in store:
- 5 exhilarating and beautiful bike rides ranging from 5 to 15 miles.
Beyond the Bike
This retreat isn’t just about cycling—it’s a multi-faceted adventure! Look forward to these exciting experiences:
- A full-day boat trip that will take your breath away, and fill your belly.
- An afternoon of horseback riding through lush, tropical landscapes.
Practical Details
- All transportation from Golfito Airport is included.
- Most meals are covered (just two off-site meals not included).
Pack your sense of adventure and prepare for a week filled with discovery, camaraderie, and the natural beauty of Pavones. Let’s make this retreat a journey to remember! 🌴🚴♂️🌊
FAQ
What airport do I need to fly into?
We will be picking up our guests from the Golfito, Costa Rica airport. To get to Golfito, you should fly into SJO (San Jose). We will assist you with booking your Sansa flight into Golfito.
What type of rides will these be?
We will have 5 guided rides for this retreat that vary in length from 5 to 15 miles. The riding surface will mostly be dirt roads, but there may be some singletrack and pavement mixed in. There are definitely some steep hills in the area, and a few places where the incline can be tough, but we aren’t above walking if and when we need to.
What if I don’t want to do all of the rides?
You are welcome to stay back at the resort if you don’t feel like riding on a certain day.
What if I want to ride during beach or pool time?
Pavones is a wild, untamed part of the world, and while we wouldn’t have it any other way, we want to keep our guests as safe as possible. Please take a buddy with you when you are out riding at any time beyond our scheduled group rides.
I have special dietary needs, can you accommodate them?
Probably, but you should contact me privately so we can discuss your specific needs
Do I need special shots to go to Costa Rica?
Nope.
My friend and I want to room together, is that possible?
Yes! Of course! Please let me know before arrival.
Do I have to wear my helmet on our rides?
Yes.
Should I buy travel insurance?
Life is full of surprises—some exciting, and some less so. While we hope your journey with Women MTB Costa Rica goes off without a hitch, unexpected events like last-minute injuries, illnesses, work emergencies, natural disasters, political situations, or family emergencies can occasionally throw a wrench in your plans. That’s why we highly encourage you to invest in travel insurance to safeguard your adventure from the unexpected!
For the ultimate peace of mind, we recommend choosing a policy that includes a “Cancel for Any Reason” option. This type of coverage ensures your trip payment is protected no matter what curveball life throws your way. Just make sure to read the fine print so you know exactly what’s covered—you’ll thank yourself later!
If you’re considering the “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage, don’t delay! Most policies require you to purchase it within 2–3 weeks of paying your initial deposit. To stay on the safe side, we suggest locking in your travel insurance at the same time (or shortly after) securing your spot with us. Happy planning, and we can’t wait to ride with you!
How do I pay?
Ready to secure your spot on the ultimate retreat adventure? The first six lucky adventurers to complete their registration and pay the $1,000 deposit will lock in their place for this unforgettable experience! Deposits can be made easily with a credit card, and while they’re nonrefundable, they’ll guarantee your spot in the action.
Once the six spots are claimed, we’ll start a waitlist for anyone eager to join the fun. Final payments are due by May 1, 2025, so be sure to mark your calendar! If the final payment isn’t completed on time, we’ll have to pass your spot to the next adventurer on the waitlist—so don’t miss out!
Let’s make this dream retreat a reality—secure your place today!
What are some things I can add as an option?
We’re here to make your retreat absolutely perfect and packed with adventure! Want to take it up a notch? We can arrange amazing extras just for you—like relaxing massages, exciting surf lessons, or surfboard rentals—all at great prices. Let’s make your retreat unforgettable! 🌊✨
Are alcoholic beverages permitted?
We’re all about good vibes and a little celebration on your getaway! While alcohol isn’t included in your package, don’t worry—we’ll make a stop at the local grocery store stocked with beer, wine, spirits, and mixers. Plus, each room has a handy mini-fridge to keep your drinks chilled! All we ask is that you enjoy responsibly, stay respectful at the resort, and keep the pool area glass-free for everyone’s safety. Cheers to an amazing adventure! 🍹🌴🎉
How much cash should I bring?
No need to stress about swapping your dollars for Costa Rican colones—dollars work perfectly here! While grocery stores and restaurants happily accept credit cards, our charming local market vendors prefer cash. To make the most of your adventure, bring enough for those delightful little purchases and tips along the way. Heads up—there’s no ATM in Pavones, so be sure to come prepared. Small bills are your best travel companions here; anything over a $20 can be tricky to break. Happy exploring! 🌴✨
What is your cancellation policy?
No one wants to cancel on an event like this, however, we understand that things happen. Once a deposit is paid, it is non-refundable. After the deposit is paid, the balance is due 21 days prior to arrival and is also non-refundable unless we fill your spot, in which case we will issue you a refund for the final balance.
WHAT TO BRING & WHAT TO LEAVE AT HOME
Things that work for us:
Surge protector
Helmet
Fave cycling shoes
Pedals if you are into that
Sunblock
Bug Spray
Cash (There is NO ATM in Pavones)
Smile
Sense of Adventure
Light clothing. Moisture wicking is better than cotton here.
Flip Flops
Favorite water bottle, or water bladder
Bathing suit
Hat for sun protection
Water shoes (optional)
Energy bars or on the road snacks
Things to leave at home:
Addictions: this isn’t the place to get clean
Attitudes