The Chapel in the Clouds in Olan, Buenos Aires, Puntarenas, Costa Rica; is not considered a tourism destination, this because getting here is complicated, there are no lodging options or fancy restaurants; however, it is a magical place, almost out of a fairy-tale or children’s movie, a hidden paradise that will fill you with positive energy. If you like trail walking and hiking and are constantly looking for places that amaze you, this is perfect for you.

To get here you need to get to Buenos Aires de Puntarenas, from here you have to continue towards Olan, you’ll need a 4×4 car and it is best if you go during the dry season, once you get here you’ll need a local guide to take you on a walk of a little over 2 kilometers (1.25 miles). (It is best if you contact the Biocaminatas group which specializes in walking tours in the area or you can coordinate a visit through Highland Heritage Landmark Trust and designated guide — Patrick King — (506) 8704 0701).

The Chapel in the Clouds is a beautiful place built by John Howard, an English expat, in the middle of the cloud forest and surrounded by amazing gardens. “It is a place for spiritual rumination – a haven of peace and sanctity in these deeply troubled times. Non-denominational, it is open to all with or without religious beliefs” , explains the frontiercostarica.com website. The chapel is sometimes used for very intimate wedding services.

The only lodging facility in the area is “The Place the Land Forgot” a couple of small, rustic but charming cabins.

While you explore the untouched cloud forest the experience transports you, the fresh air fills your lungs and energizes your body and mind, waterfalls of different sizes can be seen along the way, many of them can only be admired in the distance of the impenetrable jungle. Diverse wildlife can be seen in their natural habitat, from jaguars to tapirs, wild boars, sloths and of course numerous species of birds.