Last weekend we went back to basics, taking a walk at what it is very likely a place that many of us have gone to during our childhood, on the mountain of San Rafael de Heredia. Going back here was simply spectacular. Whether it's walking, picnicking, vegetating or snuggling ... this place is ideal.

How to get there? From the center of San Rafael, you go up to the delegation of the Public Force, where you have to turn left. Continue for about 10 more minutes without deviating until you reach the entrance to the Bosque de la Hoja.

What to bring? Sweater, comfortable shoes, food and blanket to make picnic, hammocks, balls, rackets or frisbees and the mood to enjoy yourself.

Distance: 4km Difficulty: Easy Vehicle: Automobile Parking: Yes Pets: Yes, with a leash Camping: No Hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday. From 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cost: We paid ¢ 2500 for the 4 people and 1 car.

Since it had been a few days since we did something chill and nearby, we decided to go to this park with Tavo’s family and dogs to have a good time. The thing is that we left at 8:00 in the morning and in little more than half an hour we arrived at the entrance of the famous Bosque de la Hoja.

When we arrived we saw good municipal security access, nice details to feel safe and walk peacefully. In addition, it has parking and as I understand it can be reached by bus from San Rafael of Heredia. Among the facilities we could see a soccer plaza, playground, a track to develop bicycle technique, barbecue ranches and new restrooms.

We got out of the car and began to walk the paths with cypress trees. There is a main path that makes a complete return and several secondary ones. Part of the charm of this forest is to explore the smaller trails, get lost in nature and finally after getting lost reach the main path to return to the open space in front of the ranches. After walking for about 1 hour under the shade of the forest, we went back to the grass where we started, we got out the toys, food and stuff to make a tasty picnic in the shade, play with the Tavo’s nieces and act like kids again, and play with the dogs of course. At the end of the day we had a great time and even made it back home early.

DATE OF THE WALK - September 2016