Things to do at and around Norma’s Villas
We are often asked for details on what is available for our guests in our area, and places to go while visiting with us. To help give you a better idea here are some suggestions and recommendations from ourselves and previous guests.
At Normas
At Norma’s Villas, there are of course the swimming pools, tennis court, the gardens offer 10 acres of incredible mature decorative and fruit trees attract many exotic birds, Green and Black Ctenosaur Iguanas and small primates such as the Common Opossum and Variegated Squirrel. We also are visited by a variety of colorful butterflies.
There is a small playground and soccer goals set up for children to play with. Also exploring the gated community is safe and many children feel a sense of adventure exploring by the small creek that runs through the property.
While at Norma’s relaxing at the hammock hut in the shade, it is easy to get lost in a good book. Norma’s Eclipse Bar and grill is also available for a snack or meal when not feeling like cooking, there is also a Pool Table and Dart Board. While the menu changes from week to week, you can expect delicious Fajita’s, Burgers, Ceviche, and a Spicy Salsa with chips.
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Walking Distance
When at Norma’s Villas, there
are several Bar/Rest only walking distance from our location.
Norma’s is also located along a major bus-line from Alajuela and Atenas.
Making it easy to get around and explore. Some suggested Dinning
locations would include: Fiesta de Maiz, The Laguna, The Casa
de Vino, and the Plaza to name a few. All are walking
distance and a great way to walk off dinner. There is also a Mini-Supermarket
less than 200 meters away that offers some basic food supplies.
Within a two hour drive:
In regards on what to do around Norma’s the following are all locations within a 2 hour drive from our facilities, perfect for a day trip. Norma’s Villas is located just southwest of Alajuela in the hills of La Garita, we are in a perfect centralized location allowing you to visit a variety of locations. We are only 4 kilometers from the Pan American Highway and about 20 minutes from SJO Airport.
In the event you are looking for a reliable and affordable rental company, please contact our friend Dean at www.renta4x4incostarica.com - They are able to drop off rental vehicles at our facility and are well known for exceptional service. We highly recommend reserving your vehicle at least 2 weeks in advance.
Norma's Villas Resort is also located along a major bus route from Atenas and Alajuela. For more Public Bus information please visit http://horariodebuses.com/cr/index.php?lang=en
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Pacific Beaches: Jaco, Hermosa, Herrarura, Puntarenas just to name a few
Volcanoes and Reserve parks: POAS is the closest within an hour drive, ARENAL, IRAZU are also popular areas to visit.
Zoo’s and Parks: Parque de diversion (Amusement Park), Zoo Ave in La Garita, The Botanical Orchid Garden in La Garita, and the Butterfly Farm in Guacima of Alajuela are all perfect places for a day trip.
Souvenirs and fine wood work: Can be found in Sarchi only about 20 minutes from Norma’s Villas along the Pan American Highway.
Cities and towns near La Garita: Alajuela is the 2nd largest city in Costa Rica, but unlike San Jose its building rarely surpass 3 stories. The city is center features a beautiful historic church and central park, also has a large indoor market and another outdoor market that is open on weekends. The International Mall is located in Alajuela, and has many of the stores and brands that would be familiar to North Americans and European guests.
Atenas is a located Southwest of La Garita and is in the mountains, very popular among ex-patriots and foreigners that reside in Costa Rica. This town is known for its laid back and friendly residents. Formally Atenas was a large Coffee producing town, while still active not as common as in the past.
Turrucares located south of La Garita is the closest town, known for Horses and Motorcycles, the town is relatively small and most of the activity concentrated on a central street. There are two supermarkets and the Banco Nacional, the bank features a 24 hr ATM that dispenses colones. Turrucares also has some of the best Salchichon in all of Costa Rica.