Turrialba : Costa rica

Turrialba is in the center of Little Switzerland, an area so named for its resemblance to Switzerland with many beautiful mountain vistas, waters falls and cows used to produce the famous local cheeses. It is the the principal town in the Turrialba Canton, situated in east-central Costa Rica between San Jose and the Caribbean coast town of Puerto Limon. The elevation is about 646 meters above sea level, and lies at the foot of the Turrialba volcano and Turrialba mountain range. The volcano produces a column of smoke that rises into the clouds but it is not considered dangerous. The population of Turrialba town according to the 2012 census was 26,680. The town is home to the University of Costa Rica (Turrialba campus) plus the Willian Allen Hospital, several clinics and five bank branches. According to Wikipedia there are several supermarkets and many smaller stores and restaurants. For more about retiring to this beautiful country see our retirement guide to Costa Rica.

Photo of church courtesy of Wikipedia and Londonalways.

We are not aware of any active communities in the area. Homes are for sale below and above $100,000 (US)

Known as Costa Rica's Little Switizerland, the area is famed for its beauty, volcano, and mountains. Turrialba is famous for rafting and kayaking and was listed as one of the top 5 rivers on the planet by National Geographic in 2010. The Pacuare River is ranked as one of the top White Water Rafting rivers in the world and offers 18 miles of class III and class IV rapids. The Rawlings Baseball factory produces most of the baseballs used in the United States.

It is hard to get to.

People who love the outdoors and nature and who do not want to live near the beach.

Tourism is quite important.

Turrialba is located near the geographic center of Costa Rica, not too far from San Jose. The temperature varies very little over the course of the year - the daily average is about 71 (F) no matter what month. The period May - Sept sees a lot of rain, at least 10 inches a month.

As a tourist destination there are some restaurants to choose from. There is also a coffee tour and a bird watching sanctuary.