A Sweet Escape to San Isidro

As a professional surfer, my life is often dictated by the rhythm of the ocean. But every now and then, I find myself craving a different kind of adventure, one that takes me away from the waves and into the heart of the land. That’s how I found myself in San Isidro, Costa Rica, ready to embark on a chocolate and farm tour that promised to be as enriching as it was delicious.

The journey to Finca La Esperanza was an adventure in itself. Nestled off the beaten path, the farm is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the pure lifestyle of a Costa Rican family. Our guide, Martin, welcomed us with open arms, and his passion for cacao was infectious. As we walked through the cacao plantation, Martin shared stories of the land and its history, making us feel like part of the family.

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the chance to taste the cacao fruit straight from the tree. Martin expertly sliced open the fruit with a machete, revealing the sweet, tangy pulp inside. It was a taste unlike any other, a reminder of the simple pleasures that nature provides. We also sampled roasted cacao beans and fresh sugar cane juice, each offering a unique flavor profile that delighted the senses.

The Art of Chocolate Making

The tour wasn’t just about tasting cacao; it was about understanding its journey from bean to bar. Martin guided us through the process of making chocolate, from roasting the beans to grinding them into a smooth paste. It was a hands-on experience, and I relished the opportunity to get my hands dirty.

One of the most fascinating parts of the tour was learning about the traditional cacao drinks of the Indigenous People of Costa Rica. We tried a drink made from crushed roasted cacao beans and hot water, a simple yet profound concoction that offered a taste of history. It was a far cry from the sweet hot chocolate we’re accustomed to, but it was a revelation in its own right.

As we molded our own chocolate bars, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. The toppings were a fun addition, allowing us to get creative with our creations. It was a reminder that chocolate is not just a treat; it’s an art form, one that requires patience and skill.

A Connection Beyond Chocolate

What made this tour truly special was the personal connection we formed with Martin and his daughter Monica. With only three of us on the tour, there was plenty of time to chat and learn about their lives on the farm. We shared stories over fresh pour-over coffee made from their own beans, a testament to the farm’s commitment to sustainability and quality.

Martin’s love for smoked salmon was a delightful surprise, and I promised to bring some on my next visit. It’s these little moments of connection that make travel so rewarding, and I left the farm feeling enriched in more ways than one.

For those looking to step off the beaten path and experience the true essence of Costa Rica, I can’t recommend this tour enough. It’s a chance to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the land and its people. And of course, you’ll leave with your own homemade chocolate bars, a sweet reminder of a day well spent.

If you’re ever in San Isidro, make sure to check out the Chocolate Tour and immerse yourself in the sacred and divine world of cacao. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.