Despite its location only 40 miles to the east of San Jose, verdant Turrialba still feels refreshingly far removed from the main tourist trail. Though best known as an agricultural region, Turrialba in fact offers a number of other attractions that cater to wide range of interests. It is the best base for visits to Costa Rica’s ancient archaeological site, Guayabo, as well being a prime area for bird watching and white water rafting. You can also explore by mountain bike or on horseback, try your hand at canyoning, or visit lush botanical gardens and macadamia nut plantations. The Turrialba volcano is currently in the midst of a particularly active phase, making the attached national park too dangerous to visit, but a glimpse of its frequently smoking peak is an impressive sight as you travel around the region.