Monteverde is considered a major ecotourism destination in Costa Rica due to its Cloud Forest Reserve and unique biodiversity. But did you know that Monteverde is also known for its incredible dairy products? What is now considered Monteverde was founded by Quakers from the United States. The spokesman of the group was Hubert Mendenhall, a dairyman who had visited Costa Rica in 1949 after joining a farmer’s tour.
The Quakers were looking for a peaceful area in Costa Rica suitable for dairy farming. They found a perfect weather, beautiful mountains and high altitude. Even though tourism is now the leading source of income for the locals, many still have dairy farms and make delicious ice cream, which for the most part, you can only find in Monteverde! There is a great ice cream shop in Santa Elena downtown next to the Amy’s Restaurant and there is also a Monteverde Cheese Factory where you can sample various cheese and dairy products.
