A Family Legacy in the Heart of Monteverde 

The story of El Tesoro is deeply intertwined with our family’s long-standing connection to Costa Rica, a story of migration, friendship, and a profound love for the land.

Our roots trace back to two journeys that converged in spirit: the arrival of the Quaker community in Monteverde around 1951, and the Heigold family’s own migration during the years of World War II. Both shared a similar vision , a pursuit of peace, simplicity, and harmony with nature.

This shared yearning for a tranquil life set the stage for what would later become the foundation of El Tesoro.

The Vision of George Edward Heigold Stark

In 1986, guided by the vision of George Edward Heigold Stark, our family acquired the 65-acre Bella Vista Farm — the very land that today gives life to El Tesoro. His dream was to create a place where people could reconnect with the land, breathe in the misty air of the cloud forest, and find beauty in simplicity.

George’s vision was inspired by stories passed down from his father, Robert Heigold Stuart, who often spoke of the Quakers’ arrival to Costa Rica — a group of idealists who arrived in Puntarenas with trucks and wagons loaded not only with belongings but also with hopes of a life free from conflict.

Their shared opposition to war led them to the cool highlands of Monteverde and Santa Elena, where they established small dairy farms, blending hard work with a peaceful way of life.

Carrying the Legacy 

Forward 

Today, under the guidance of George Robert Heigold, El Tesoro stands as a living tribute to those stories, a bridge between past and present. Every trail, tree, and viewpoint reflects the family’s enduring respect for nature, community, and exploration.

Our mission is to share with visitors the same sense of wonder and harmony that first inspired our family generations ago. Through every guided walk and every sunrise over the forest, we honor the legacy of those who sought peace and found it in the misty heart of Monteverde.

We invite you to discover El Tesoro, not just as a destination, but as a story still unfolding. A story of family, nature, and the timeless connection between people and place.