When one thinks of the highlands of Alajuela, the first thing that comes to mind is the majesty of the Poás Volcano or the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. However, in recent years, a new open secret has begun to attract travelers seeking a different connection with nature: the Laberinto Olivos (Olivos Labyrinth).
For our guests at Oasis Mountain, the location is privileged. Situated just minutes from our suites in Fraijanes, this attraction has become a mandatory stop to complete the perfect weekend getaway.
In this article, we take you through the green corridors of this fascinating place and tell you why it is the ideal complement to your luxury stay with us.
A Story of Resilience: The Origin of the Labyrinth
What is today an intricate maze of cypresses was, some years ago, a thriving strawberry farm—the flagship crop of the Poasito region. The story of Laberinto Olivos is one of reinvention. After dealing with the challenges inherent to traditional agriculture, its owners decided to transform the land into something unique.
Instead of fighting against the land, they decided to sculpt it. They swapped strawberries for cypresses and designed a living geometric layout. The result is a testament to Costa Rican creativity: a sustainable tourist attraction that honors the agricultural landscape of the area while offering a completely new playful experience. Today, walking its paths is walking through the history of a family that knew how to see a forest where others only saw a crop field.
The Challenge: 2,500 Meters of Green Mystery
The heart of the experience is, of course, the labyrinth. It is not a small decorative garden; we are talking about a course of 2,800 square meters of trails surrounded by living cypress walls.
The magic of the place lies in immersion. Upon entering, the outside world disappears, blocked by the intense green of the trees and the cool climate characteristic of the volcano’s slopes. It is an activity that challenges the senses:
- For couples: It is a fun opportunity to work as a team (or get lost together intentionally) and enjoy moments of privacy surrounded by nature.
- For families: Children find a real-life video game here, running through the corridors and looking for the exit with inexhaustible energy.
Don’t worry if you feel like you can’t find the way; the design is intended to be an enjoyable challenge, not an impossible mission. Plus, the reward at the end of the journey is worth every step.
Beyond the Labyrinth: A Sensory Experience
Laberinto Olivos has managed to diversify its offer so that the visit does not end upon finding the exit. The complex offers several points of interest that invite you to stay longer and breathe the pure mountain air:
1. The Panoramic Viewpoint Perhaps the most photogenic point of the place. Strategically located, it offers a clear view towards the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM). On clear days, the view is impressive, allowing you to see the city in the distance while enjoying the silence of the mountain. It is the perfect spot for that souvenir selfie or simply to sit and watch the clouds pass by.
2. The Hydrangea Corridor Honoring the region’s flora, this corridor is a spectacle of color. The hydrangeas, with their blue, purple, and pink tones, create a vibrant contrast against the dark green of the cypresses. If you are a photography lover, this corner is unmissable.
3. Meet the Strawberry Field The Strawberry Field is full of surprises! There, we tell you how the strawberry is born: the plant, the process, and the real care.
Additionally, you will be able to:
- Taste fresh strawberries (tasting)
- Harvest your own strawberries
- And buy the strawberries you harvested yourself
It is an authentic, educational, and delicious experience.
Your Perfect Itinerary from Oasis Mountain
How to fit this visit into your stay? By staying at Oasis Mountain, you have the advantage of proximity. Here we propose the ideal plan for an unforgettable day:
- Sunrise at Oasis Mountain: Wake up in your suite to the sound of birds and enjoy a Costa Rican specialty coffee on your terrace.
- Volcano Morning: Go up early to the Poás Volcano National Park (remember to book your ticket in advance) to see the clear crater.
- Noon at the Labyrinth: Coming down from the volcano, detour towards Poasito and enter Laberinto Olivos. Dedicate about 2 hours to walk it and enjoy the views.
- Local Lunch: Take advantage of the labyrinth’s picnic areas or visit one of the typical restaurants in the Fraijanes area to try strawberries with cream.
- Relaxing Sunset: Return to Oasis Mountain. After walking 2,500 meters, nothing feels better than a hot shower and resting in our luxury beds, preparing for a quiet night under the stars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Laberinto Olivos
We know that doubts may arise when planning your visit. We have compiled the most common questions from our guests to help you:
What is the best clothing to visit the labyrinth? The Poasito and Fraijanes area has a mountain climate, cool and often misty. The ideal is to wear layered clothing (“onion style”): a light shirt, a warm sweater, and, very importantly, a raincoat or windbreaker. Footwear should be closed and comfortable for walking (sneakers or hiking boots), as the trails are dirt and can be wet.
Is the place suitable for children and seniors? Yes, it is a very family-friendly activity. The route is mostly flat and does not require athletic physical condition, just a desire to walk. However, being a 2,500-meter route, it is recommended that seniors go at their own pace. Children usually enjoy it very much.
Can I bring my pet? Yes! Laberinto Olivos is Pet Friendly. Your dog can accompany you on the adventure, as long as you keep it on a leash at all times for the safety of other visitors and farm animals. It is an amazing olfactory walk for them.
How much time do I need for the visit? Although finding the exit of the labyrinth can take between 30 and 60 minutes depending on your sense of direction, we recommend reserving at least 2 hours for the complete visit. This way you will have plenty of time to enjoy the viewpoint, see the animals, take photos in the hydrangeas, and perhaps have a picnic.
What happens if it starts raining? The weather in the area is changeable, and rain is part of the charm of the cloud forest. If it rains lightly, a good raincoat will allow you to continue enjoying (walking in the rain among cypresses has its mystique). If the rain is very strong, you can take shelter in the covered areas or nearby cafeterias until it clears.
Book Your Adventure at Oasis Mountain
Laberinto Olivos is just one of the many jewels surrounding our accommodation. At Oasis Mountain, we not only offer you a bed but a gateway to the best of Costa Rica: volcanoes, waterfalls, coffee culture, and natural labyrinths.
Ready to get lost in nature and find yourself in comfort?