External Reviews
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The Guardian UK: "The setting of Finca Esperanza Verde - lush green mountains interspersed with wisps of cloud - couldn't be more conducive to relaxation.
Founded in 1998 by a non-profit organisation based in North Carolina, the farm ploughs its profits back into the nearby town of San Ramón, funding community projects such as a school for local children and reforestation and fresh water schemes. And it's Nicaraguan-run: talk to the local staff and you can feel a palpable sense of pride in what they've achieved. You can even spend a few days with a family in San Ramón to learn about the rural way of life and how to make nacatamales, a Nicaraguan delicacy.
Hikes through the nature reserve with local guides - all ex-agricultural workers- offer spectacular bird-watching opportunities. A visit to the butterfly farm is also a must. The altitude also lends itself to shade-grown Arabica coffee and from November to February you can help with the harvest and witness the wholly organic process in action.
The lodge and cabins are built of handmade brick and local materials. All waste is composted, showers are solar-powered and the electricity comes from a hydro scheme. The meals are healthy and delicious and you even get your own environmentally friendly napkin for the length of your stay.
There's no TV, telephone or internet. If that's your idea of hell, don't go. But sitting around a bonfire under the glow of a million stars, it seemed rather heavenly to me." September 2006