“Out of this world”

“Home away from home”

The kindness of the hosts and the volunteers

Nature & People

Alison is a wonderful host. We had an issue accessing the property on the first day due to an unusual and very uncharacteristic recent rainstorm, but Alison rushed to pick us up in the Jeep and ensure we reached the lodge safely. The stay is perfect for anyone who loves animals and the outdoors, especially cats! I would 100% recommend a stay here and plan to visit again one day.

Here is an honest review. There are things we liked about our stay in Rivendell and things we did not. Before getting into that, we should preface this review by saying that Rivendell is clearly not a place which is meant to afford the traveller all the usual luxuries of a hotel. We booked knowing that in advance. Now, it must also be said that Allison herself was lovely and hospitable. And it cannot be denied that the location is breathtaking. The job Allison does for the animals living there (and there are more than a few) is admirable. We also liked being around them - but not everyone might.

“Rivendell - the perfect name for this haven”

We loved the location, the people and the house. If you know Tolkien, you'll understand why Alison calls it Rivendell. It is so peaceful, the views are wonderful and the air is so clear. The walks we did from the house were fantastic. We made sure we had all the food we needed for 3 days. The shared kitchen is well equipped. There was a film night while we were there, everyone was invited and popcorn was shared. The animals are all quiet and friendly, but not intrusive. We definitely hope to return.

“Truly one of the most beautiful and peaceful stays I’ve ever had.”

Absolutely magical place. The surroundings are breathtaking. Pure nature, mountains, peace and quiet. Alison is an amazing host: incredibly friendly, helpful, and always quick to answer any question or help solve anything you need.

Nice charming place in rural area - surrounded by banana trees.

“Amazing lodge with amazing host and amazing view right at the border of the national park”

-amazing spot right at the border of the national park - the super amazing view from the logge - super nice host Alison and Alexis - the tent in the pool ist a very interesting accomodation with a lot of private space - all the cute cats and digs, especially Mr Sunday, the cutest dog ever - two shared kitchens to use which are good equipped - free tea and coffee - etc etc. etc.

The pool The nature People and vibes Sweet cats

“Unforgettable place”

The host, Alison, puts her whole heart in running and developing this place. Staying here is a truly unique experience. The photos do paint a kind of accurate picture, but it's nothing compared to the feeling of being present there, surrounded by those green mountains, relaxing in that complete calm and quiet atmosphere. The two of us reserved a private room in the 2-room guesthouse: it had a super comfortable bed (I honestly didn't expect it to be so good :)), and Alison's paintings on the wall added to the nice atmosphere. We loved waking up to the sight of the lush green forest in front of one of the windows and being able to peek around and see if we can spot some of the cute cats and dogs. As we came for mostly hiking on the island, it was important to us to be able to put our sandwich ingredients in a fridge - the solution here is perfect for that, there is a huge shared fridge in the hostel building where guests can put their name on a personal box. It's great how solar power is enough to provide sufficient energy for all the basic needs here.

“Magical experience with the kindest host and the most beautiful landscape around.”

I had the most amazing magical time at the lodge. Alison is the kindest soul, I met the kindest people there, the place and it’s location are most magical in the mountains under the stars and I loved all the cute dogs and cats around.

“Amazing lodge in the national park with superfriendly hosts”

- Amazing location of the hostel right in the national park - super friendly host - nice 5 bed dorm - double rooms have a private kitchen and toilet only shared by the 2 double rooms. But double rooms can also use the shared kitchens of the dorm and the hostel public rooms - the pool - all the cute cats and dogs. Especialy Mr Sunday, the cutest dog ever.

It was quiet and the view was wonderful

Paradise in Earth. There ist nothing more to say you have to discover for yourself.

“Magical place in a unique location with plenty of cats and dogs for company. Will definitely return!”

“I felt welcome in paradise, surrounded by lovely staff, guests and a green barranco.”

My second stay here, and for good reason - Alison has created a magical place. It won't be for everyone so read the reviews carefully, but if it is your kind of place there are few places like it.

“Excellent”

A very different type of stay but unique and stunning in the mountains. Good socials and Alison is super friendly and helpful. You need to love cats, dogs and other animals 😊

Amazing place.