Until the upswing in ecotourism, Monteverde’s number-one employer was this cheese factory. Started in 1953 by Monteverde’s original Quaker settlers, the factory produces everything from a creamy Gouda to a very nice sharp, white cheddar, sold all over the country, as well as other dairy products such as yogurt and, most importantly, ice cream. Reservations are required for the two-hour tour of the factory.