Platanillo is a quintessential tranquil mountain town just 15 to 20 minutes from Playa Dominical on very good paved roads and offers more affordable property and home options. Most of the residents are locals with some expats mixed in from the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The location is the main draw with a short drive to the beach and only 30 minutes to San Isidro the closest city. The mountain location with elevation of about 1,200 to 1,600 feet provides ideal elevation for cooler evenings without the need for A/C and much fresher daytime temperatures than down at the beach. The San Juan de Dios Valley has a diverse tartan with rolling pasture land and jungle covered mountains with the Guabo River flowing though it. The world-famous Nauyaca Waterfall is also in the Platanillo area. Tinamastes offers even cooler temps with a higher elevation. The Diamante Valley is named after the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica and some of the best organic fruits and vegetables in this area come from this fertile valley. There is organic farmers market every Tuesday at the community salon where people come from all over to partake in this weekly community gathering. Alfombra is another area near Tinamastes with cooler temps, expansive views, and more tranquil lifestyle offering. |