The Hummingbird House

The Valle Central is the agricultural heart of Costa Rica — coffee on the slopes, small towns, and a climate mild enough that nothing here is air-conditioned out of necessity. It sits within reach of both coasts and of San José, which makes it a sensible base for a trip built around driving rather than one around a single beach. The house sleeps four in one bedroom with three beds, and has a pool, a garden, a terrace, parking, air conditioning and a washer. At $109 a night it is the best-value stay in our Costa Rican selection, particularly for a family of four.