Insights from Diana Stobo, Founder of The Retreat Costa Rica

In a world where travel often intersects with sustainability and community impact, few destinations encapsulate the ethos of regenerative tourism like The Retreat Costa Rica. Founded by Diana Stobo, an advocate of wellness and sustainable luxury, this boutique wellness haven has redefined eco-luxury by harmonizing environmental stewardship, cultural respect, and guest transformation. In this exclusive interview, Diana shares the inspiration behind her renowned property, the daily practices that make The Retreat a beacon of regeneration, and her vision for the future of responsible tourism. Her insights also provide valuable advice for boutique hotel owners aspiring to lead in the regenerative luxury space.

1. Origins and Philosophy: The Birth of The Retreat Costa Rica

Q: What was the initial inspiration behind its concept, and how has its philosophy evolved?
DN: The Retreat Costa Rica was born from a vision to create a sanctuary of wellness and regeneration. As a wellness expert, raw food advocate, and nature-driven health enthusiast, I was inspired to transform a barren mountain—once degraded by livestock grazing—into a thriving ecosystem that integrates permaculture and sustainable luxury. This transformation represents the heart of our philosophy: to honor and heal the land while fostering wellness and connection for our guests. What began as a boutique wellness retreat has flourished into a holistic haven where environmental sustainability, mindful hospitality, and community empowerment intertwine seamlessly. 

At The Retreat, every detail—from our organic farm and eco-friendly infrastructure to our solar-powered expansions—has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate the balance between luxury and regeneration. Rooted in a dharmic commitment to nurture the earth, respect indigenous wisdom, and uplift the local community, The Retreat embodies the ethos of sustainability as both a practice and a way of life. By integrating local employment initiatives, farm-to-table dining, and eco-conscious spa experiences, we have created a space that inspires personal transformation while fostering environmental and social vitality. The Retreat Costa Rica stands as a testament to the belief that true luxury is regenerative, leaving the land, the spirit, and the community enriched.

2. Sustainability and Regeneration in Practice

Q: How does your hotel incorporate sustainable and regenerative practices into daily operations?

DS: At The Retreat Costa Rica, sustainability and regeneration are seamlessly woven into every aspect of our operations to honor the environment, uplift the community, and promote wellness. From our organic permaculture farm, which supplies fresh produce and eggs while minimizing waste through composting, to our farm-to-table dining featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and pesticide-free coffee, every detail reflects our commitment to the land. Our eco-friendly infrastructure incorporates solar power, biodegradable cleaning products, and sustainably sourced materials, while our spa treatments use indigenous plants from our herb garden to ensure a chemical-free, farm-to-spa experience. Water and soil management systems prevent erosion and support sustainable agriculture, while reforestation efforts have transformed the land into a thriving ecosystem. We proudly employ 85% of our staff from the local community, offering training programs and partnering with local businesses and charities to foster growth. A comprehensive recycling program, energy-saving measures, and a dedication to responsible consumption round out our regenerative philosophy, creating a space that enriches the land, empowers the community, and inspires guests to live harmoniously with the earth.

3. Exclusive Experiences in Responsible Luxury

Q: What are some of the most exclusive experiences your hotel offers, and how do you ensure these align with the values of regeneration and responsible luxury?

DS: At The Retreat Costa Rica, what sets us apart in the competitive eco-luxury space is our unwavering commitment to regenerative hospitality—a philosophy that goes beyond sustainability to actively enrich the land, community, and guest experience. Our story begins with the remarkable transformation of a barren mountain into a thriving ecosystem, reflecting our dedication to environmental stewardship. This ethos is woven into every aspect of the guest experience, from farm-to-table dining and farm-to-spa treatments crafted with ingredients grown on-site to solar-powered accommodations constructed with sustainably harvested materials. We also prioritize community empowerment, employing 85% of our staff locally and providing them with professional growth opportunities that enhance the region's economy and foster pride. Guided by permaculture principles, we incorporate composting, water conservation, and organic farming into our daily operations, creating a self-sustaining system that enhances the natural environment. Guests are invited to partake in curated wellness experiences such as ayurvedic spa treatments, reforestation excursions, and permaculture workshops, offering a profound connection to the land. At the heart of The Retreat Costa Rica is a regenerative ethos that nurtures the earth, uplifts the community, and creates a ripple effect of positive impact—redefining eco-luxury as a practice that restores, uplifts, and inspires.

4. Vision for Regenerative Tourism and Certification

Q: What advice would you give to other boutique eco-hotel owners considering joining the Regenera Luxury certification?

DS: For boutique eco-hotel owners considering the Regenera Luxury certification, the key is to align your core philosophy with regenerative principles and embed them holistically into your operations. This certification goes beyond sustainability, requiring a commitment to actively improving the environment, supporting local communities, and engaging guests in meaningful ways. Start by ensuring your practices reflect this ethos, from permaculture farming and chemical-free spa treatments to solar-powered innovations and local community empowerment. Documenting your efforts and measuring their impact is essential, as is offering guests immersive experiences that connect them to your regenerative mission. Ultimately, this certification should amplify your unique brand identity while positioning your property as a leader in the transformative movement of regenerative tourism.

Diana Stobo’s insights provide a profound understanding of how regeneration can redefine the travel industry. By blending luxury with sustainability, The Retreat Costa Rica not only offers an unparalleled guest experience but also serves as a model for others to follow in the journey toward a regenerative future.

A heartfelt thank you to Diana Stobo for sharing her inspiring vision and dedication to creating a sanctuary that champions wellness, sustainability, and community empowerment. Your work continues to set a benchmark for regenerative tourism worldwide.