Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
Location: 24 km Oeste de la fortuna de San Carlos, Fortuna, cr
Star Rating: 3 Stars
Property Type: Lodges
About this Property
Tropical Paradise in Arenal Conservation Area
Luxurious Accommodations: Immerse yourself in tropical luxury with rooms featuring wood finishes, furnished terraces, and stunning views of the garden and Arenal Volcano.
Abundant Amenities: Enjoy the on-site lake, swimming pool, sun terrace, and games room. Indulge in international and local cuisine at the restaurant, unwind in the hot tub, or explore the bird sanctuary with 500 bird species.
Adventure Awaits: Embark on guided walks, witness the Arenal Volcano's lava flows, or climb The Nest wildlife observation tower. With sports fishing at Arenal Lake and 11 km of walking trails, the possibilities are endless.
Book now for an unforgettable stay at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails!
Important Information
Please note that the road to reach this lodge is not in optimal conditions. Guests can rent a 4x4 vehicle to reach the property.Please inform of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.
Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.
Policies
Check-in: 03:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Check-out: 12:00 PM
Amenities & Facilities
- Health or beauty spa nearby
- Offsite parking discounted rates available
- Electric bicycle charging station
- Parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Swimming pool
- Restaurant
- Terrace
- Luggage storage
- Safety deposit box
- Tour desk
- Hot tub/Jacuzzi
- Car hire
- Massage services
- Packed lunches
- Table tennis
- Non-smoking throughout
- Shared lounge/TV area
- Board games/puzzles
- Shuttle service (additional charge)
- Kid meals
- Infinity pool
- Outdoor furniture
- Fruits
- Shallow end
- Spa/wellness center services
- Fence around pool
- Beauty Services
- Staff adhere to local safety protocols
- Guest rooms disinfected between stays
- Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
- Physical distancing rules followed
- Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
- Cashless payment available
- Fire extinguishers
- First aid kit available
- Sanitized tableware & silverware
- Invoice provided
- Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
- Smoke alarms
- Physical distancing in dining areas
- Process in place to check health of guests
- Screens / Barriers between staff and guests for safety
- 24-hour security
- Delivered food - securely covered
- Security alarm
- Thermometers for guests provided by property
- Key card access
- Happy hour
- Television in common areas
- Free wired internet
- Playground on site
- Self parking (surcharge)
- Airport transportation - pickup (surcharge)
- Airport transportation - drop-off (surcharge)
- Pool sun loungers
- Offsite parking discounted rates available
- Internet access
- Games
- Housekeeping on request
- Wine release events
- Exercise/lap pool
- Japanese garden
- Secured parking
- Fishing nearby
- Health or beauty spa nearby
- Horse riding nearby
- Swimming nearby
- Electric bicycle charging station
- Paddle boating nearby
- Accessible shuttle
- No accessible shuttle
- Accessible train station shuttle
- No accessible train station shuttle
Rooms Available
-
Superior Room, Mountain View
2 Double Beds
215-sq-foot room, balcony/patio with mountain views
Food & Drink - Coffee/tea maker
Sleep - Bed sheets
Bathroom - Private bathroom, shower, free toiletries, and towels
Practical - Yard, laptop-compatible safe, and window screens; cribs (free) available on request
Comfort - Daily housekeeping and ceiling fan
Accessibility - Wheelchair accessible
Eco-friendly - Eco-friendly toiletries and LED light bulbs
Need to Know - Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
Non-Smoking
Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Shower
- Private bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Shampoo
- Wheelchair accessible
- Daily housekeeping
- Yard
- Ceiling fan
- Balcony or patio
- Free cribs/infant beds
- Bedsheets provided
- Soap
- Window screens
- LED light bulbs
- Wheelchair-width doorways
- Toothbrush and toothpaste available
- Toothbrush and toothpaste not available
-
La Casona Rooms - Share Bathroom & Private Room
The spacious double room offers a tea and coffee maker, a seating area, a safe deposit box as well as a terrace with lake views. The unit has 1 bed.
Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Safety deposit box
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Shared toilet
- Alarm clock
- Terrace
- Clothes rack
- Toilet paper
- Pool towels
- Cots
- Shampoo
- Body soap
- Fire extinguisher
- Key card access
-
White Hawk Villa + Waterfall
Boasting a private entrance, this villa features 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 3 bathrooms with a shower and a hairdryer. The kitchen has a refrigerator, an oven and a microwave. The villa features a tea and coffee maker, a seating area, a dining area as well as a terrace with garden views. The unit has 5 beds.
Max Occupancy: 10 (10 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- Hair dryer
- Refrigerator
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Microwave
- Private bathroom
- Dressing room
- Kitchen
- Private entrance
- Alarm clock
- Dining area
- Wardrobe or closet
- Oven
- Terrace
- Dining table
- Outdoor furniture
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Pool towels
- Wine glasses
- Cots
- Shampoo
- Body soap
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- Fire extinguisher
- Key card access
-
Smithsonian Room + Waterfall
This room features a ceiling fan, a safe and a furnished terrace with views of the Arenal Volcano. The bathroom is private and has a shower. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas of the hotel.
Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- Hair dryer
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Dressing room
- Private entrance
- Tile/marble floor
- Alarm clock
- Wardrobe or closet
- Terrace
- Entire unit located on ground floor
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Pool towels
- Trash cans
- Cots
- Shampoo
- Body soap
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key card access
-
Standard Room + Waterfall
This room features a ceiling fan, a safe and a furnished terrace with views of the gardens. The bathroom is private and has a shower. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas of the hotel.
Max Occupancy: 4 (4 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- Hair dryer
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Private bathroom
- Dressing room
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Private entrance
- Tile/marble floor
- Alarm clock
- Wardrobe or closet
- Terrace
- Entire unit located on ground floor
- Upper floors accessible by stairs only
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Pool towels
- Trash cans
- Cots
- Shampoo
- Body soap
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- Smoke alarm
- Fire extinguisher
- Key card access
-
Phil’s Villa + Waterfall
Featuring a private entrance, this villa is consisted of of 1 living room, 3 separate bedrooms and 3 bathrooms with a shower and a hairdryer. The fully equipped kitchen has a refrigerator, an oven and a microwave. The villa features a tea and coffee maker, a seating area, a dining area as well as a terrace with garden views. The unit offers 5 beds.
Max Occupancy: 10 (10 Adults)
- Coffee/tea maker
- Shower
- Safety deposit box
- Hair dryer
- Refrigerator
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Fan
- Toilet
- Microwave
- Private bathroom
- Dressing room
- Kitchen
- Private entrance
- Alarm clock
- Dining area
- Wardrobe or closet
- Oven
- Terrace
- Dining table
- Outdoor furniture
- Clothes rack
- Drying rack for clothing
- Toilet paper
- Pool towels
- Wine glasses
- Cots
- Shampoo
- Body soap
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- Fire extinguisher
- Key access
Guest Reviews
- Kandace (9/5): Loved all the options the property provided and guides were very knowledgeable and kind - Exceptional. The juices were outstanding The mattresses were a little hard but I slept great after all of our wonderful hikes.
- Robin (6/5): -
- Beatriz (9/5): - El entorno que lo rodea es espectacular, ofrece muchas actividades para hacer dentro del recinto y el desayuno es muy variado y rico.
- Shawn (9/5): -
- Pablo (9/5): - Muy buenas vistas al volcan arenal, se pueden hacer varias rutas desde el hotel. Personal muy amable. Nos faltó una neverita en la habitación, otros hoteles de la misma categoría la tienen
- Michael (10/5): Located in the Volcano Park... A great hotel. - Fantastic location inside the volcano park. Wonderful rooms (Phil's Villa) with beautiful gardens. Very close to Fortuna.
- Faye (10/5): A perfect stay - This exceeded all expectations, I cannot recommend this lodge enough. The staff went above and beyond, the accommodation in the middle of the forest was beautiful, and the birds and wildlife were abundant. I didn’t want to leave and would definitely return
- Henrik baumann (9/5): - At det lå midt i nationalparken tæt på Arenal vulkanen. Gratis guidet tur i Parken 3 gange om dagen. Fin service af personalet både i receptionen og i restauranten. Lækker mad. Vi vidste ikke at vi havde fået et værelse ca 500 meter fra restauranten og receptionen, nede ad vejen i parken. Der var shuttlebus, men vi kørte selv op og ned.
- Panupong (10/5): Excellent stay. One of the best places in Arenal area to do birdwatching activities. - My friend and I particularly love birdwatching activities at the observation deck in early morning and free guided walk at 8am. They also offered a welcome drink at the check-in and offered so many opportunities for us to do hiking trails on our own, including to the waterfalls and to the Nest observation tower. Overall everything was perfect. The only downside is that there is no air conditioner and television, which is sensible for staying in the middle of national park.
Guided birdwatching tour is extremely expensive to book if you come in a group of 1 or 2 persons. They should offered the possibility to pay extra (not too much) for shared tours that can be joined by any hotel guest.
- Sophie (9/5): - Le lieu confortable et agréable. Bonne ambiance. Très belle vue.
Les balades en autonomie et guidées. Le restaurant est bien pour le petit déjeuner mais trop cher et banal pour déjeuner ou diner
- Michael (10/5): Beyond wonderful - Gorgeous, filled and surrounded by beauty, amazing birds and volcano off our deck, baby monkeys out our front door, swim in a waterfall, terrific food, perfection all around.
- Elizabeth (10/5): - Exceptional place. Beautiful property. Staff were excellent. Would absolutely stay here again.
- Allison (8/5): Wildlife! - Amazing rainforest surroundings, nice trails, plenty of wildlife to see, helpful staff
- John (9/5): Enjoyable - It is a big place with lodges scattered around but they have convenient shuttle whenever you request. The staffs are very helpful. Many trails to walk around for the wildlife especially birds. Overall very nice place , will come again. None
- Roman (8/5): -
- Shae (10/5): Friendly staff, clean and comfortable rooms, and an unbeatable location. - The location was unbelievable. Our room had a fantastic view and was very clean and comfortable. I appreciated the fact that someone tidied our room every day and brought fresh towels. I also really appreciated the free breakfast and the ability to book transportation directly on the lodge website. It made planning the trip very smooth. Nothing. The stay was amazing.
- Andrea (10/5): Expensive stay but worth it! - The best view of Arenal Volcano!
We arrived early and were able to use the property before our room was ready.
We did the guided tour of the property plus two self-guided hikes during our one-night stay. The paths are very easy and some are even paved roads. There are many signs and information spots to learn about the area and the wildlife. The waterfall hike was nice, the hanging bridge was ok, and the lagoon area had a nice path around it to see the plants and birds. The frog pond walk was really nice; we didn't climb the observation tower during the hike and I wish we had gone back on our own. The observation deck by the restaurant was incredible! Absolutely stunning property and well worth the visit.
The restaurant also had huge jugs of cold water to refill our reusable bottles.
The breakfast was outstanding with lots of fresh fruit, buffet options (cereal, toast, banana breads etc), plus a choice from the menu (eggs, omelet, Traditional breakfast, French toast etc). Fresh juice and amazing coffee!
We had the hamburger and chicken sandwiches for lunch and were very happy with them. The dinner options didn't appeal to us so we had a bigger lunch and found other options for dinner.
Very comfortable, spacious rooms with vaulted ceilings. We had been spoiled by air conditioning at our other stays, so it was a bit of a shock to not have it here, but the rooms cooled down nicely with the night air.
Our section of the hotel also had an observation room with huge glass windows and an open side for the view. There was a rain shower while we were there and it was absolutely breathtaking to be there and watch the storm.
The hotel also provides pool towels. The worst part of the trip had nothing to do with the hotel, although I think they could assist in the solutions: a neighbouring guest had his deck light on and it was very bright. We needed to close the curtains to block the light, but that meant we didn't have great air flow in the room. We lifted the bottom of the curtain onto a footstool to let in some cool air.
Another head-scratcher was the leaf blower being used in the morning to clean off the parking lot. I don't understand these blowers at the best of times, but at an environmental lodge I was very distressed at the unnecessary noise (although it seemed to be battery and not gas powered) rather than just leaving the leaves to blow away or sweeping.
- Margot (10/5): Un séjour en pleine nature - Le cadre sublime, les chambres confortables et les jardins luxuriants
- Aengus (9/5): Well maintained resort in a spectacular setting, with wonderful ’birding’ opportunities. - Howard the waiter. What a fantastic smile! He made our day.
Good food, nicely presented.
Amazing sunsets.
Great view of the volcano (though partially obscured by clouds).
The waterfall and hanging bridge.
Birds and monkeys everywhere! No kettle in the room. Only a cafetière.
It’s fine if you want coffee, but the complimentary chamomile tea bags suggest the resort feels that it’s ok to make tea that tastes of weak coffee.
- Theresa (9/5): I would definitely return! - Th grounds and walking paths of this property are really good - you literally can go there and be occupied with everything there for a couple of days. The complimentary tours (we always had Edward) were absolutely excellent - a real value add! We booked a tour through the lodge to do bird watching at El Silencio - and the guide had such a difficult accent and also did less time so that felt like bad value for money.
- Nicole (8/5): -
- Maciej (10/5): - Przepiękny pokój z widokiem na ogród i wulkan przez duże okna, łóżka skierowane na zieleń, wygodny taras, z którego moNa obserwować przyrodę i przylatujące do kwiatów kolibry i biegające koati. Wygodna, duża garderoba i łazienka z wielkim prysznicem. Super śniadania w restauracji z pięknym widokiem na jezioro. Piękny teren zielony, różne ścieżki, z mostkiem wiszącym, basen i jacuzzi, z widokiem na wulkan. -
- Nancy (8/5): Terrific - Im so sorry, that review i did just now was all wrong!!! I thought i was reviewing a different property. Please ignore and let me revise it! Loved it!
- Henry (9/5): -
- Markus (10/5): - Tolle Lage, tolle trails, wahnsinnig viel zu sehen und entdecken.
- alison (10/5): - The view was amazing
- Roger & Gail (8/5): We loved slowing down and enjoying the beauty of nature all around us. It is a nature retreat for sure. - The access to trails, beautiful fauna and flora, so much to do right there on property. The property was very well maintained and had an amazing selection of plants. Watching the monkeys come through on a morning through the trees was a special treat, and so much to see from the Nest. We spent over an hour there early in the morning. Restaurant staff were excellent, selection and flavor of food was decent. Very remote. No access to other food options or amenities for 30 - 40 mins. The road going in is a rough ride. This is a true get away from the hustle and bustle of the town but be aware that once you are there, you are far from any other places. Once you leave the property it is not feasible to go back and forth so we would pack up for the day. You have to be prepared for the remoteness. Also no AC, so just be prepared especially if you are in one of the rooms by the reception where you have to close the curtains for privacy.
- Moira (9/5): - Location location location Thin walls meant I could hear noisy neighbors over the jungle sounds !
- FALAROPO65 (10/5): Estancia en el paraíso - Absolutamente todo, desde todo el personal, hasta los detalles que aparecen por todas las instalaciones. La ubicación es perfecta. Nada
- Rolf (9/5): - Die Wanderwege und die Parkanlage sind phantastisch. Vogelbeobachtung vom Aussichtsdeck toll.
- MrSmee (9/5): Einzigartige Lage - Geräumiges Zimmer in fantastischer Lage zum Vulkan. Beeindruckende Umgebung mit vielen Vögeln. Der Weg zum Restaurant war weit.
- Mainor (10/5): Simplemente extraordinaria! - Atención al cliente, servicio de calidad, limpieza y orden, sostenibilidad, ambiente, ubicación, instalaciones. Excepcionalmente increíble. No hay aguas termales 😫
- Janely (8/5): comoda y amigable - la vista y el personal, siempre tenian todo limpio, la comida bien, las amenidades mejor y todo bien cuidado que en la habitación no tuvieran aire acondicionado
- Natasha (9/5): Unique experience thanks to the location, personnel and service. - The scenery and view were just unbelievable. Nice pool & trails. Personnel was really great with kids! Rooms were a little outdated with little facilities.
- Svetlana (10/5): -
- Inna (10/5): Amazing! - This is a boutique hotel in the jungle, with all the greenery, waterfall, observation tower and animas.
We got probably the best room just in front of volcano. The view was amazing! I’ve never seen anything similar although traveled a lot. You should take your earplugs because the birds and animals are talking the whole night :)
- Katherine (8/5): A beautiful place with wonderful staff. Avoid the ceviche. - Very lovely location with all of the gardens and paths. The room was great and staff wonderful. It was our anniversary and they gave us a nice bottle of red wine in our room. We thoroughly enjoyed it! The only complaint was that on the last day we had lunch before we left and my husband ordered the ceviche. We are pretty sure it gave him food poisoning as he started getting sick that night and was sick all the next day and half the one after that. . I did not order it and was fine. It was very unfortunate. Would have given this place a higher rating otherwise.
- Juan Antonio (10/5): Espectacular - La ubicación dentro del parque es excepcional! El personal es muy servicial y las instalaciones te dejan con la boca abierta. Había una familia con dos niños pequeños durmiendo en la habitación contigua con lloros constantes a todas horas por lo que en determinados momentos perdía parte de la tranquilidad y calma del lugar.
- Guest (10/5): -
- Guillermo (9/5): Tranquilidas y naturaleza - Senderos amplios y muy bonitos. Tranquilidad. Buen servicio en el restaurante. Buen wifi. Habitacion amplia con muy buenas vistas. Zonas comunes con buenas vistas El camino al hotel es de piedras durante algunos kilometros. Check out lento porque revisan habitación por lo cual también realizan retención en cuenta bancaria
- Manuela67 (10/5): - Super emplacement au milieu de la jungle et en face du volcan, nous avons observé plein d'oiseaux De ne pas être resté plus longtemps
- Matthieu (7/5): - L'emplacement fantastique, hôtel très propre. Chambres très confortables.
Vue exceptionnelle. Le restaurant le soir, trop cher pour la prestation, mention spéciale pour les 30g de pâtes au beurre du menu enfant.
Le matin, tres bon petit déjeuner.
Le midi, carte déjeuner très simple mais agréable.
- Cedric (10/5): - Emplacement, propreté, animaux dans le parc... Rien
- arnaud (9/5): Un lieu incroyable - Le lieu, l environnement , le personnel , les sentiers de randonnées Le seul petit point faible est qu il nous a fallu prendre 2 chambres pour une famille de 5
- Dorine (10/5): Incroyable lieux! - Tout !!!!
l'emplacement, les chemins, la pleine nature, les animaux, un espace de nature incroyable.
Le pont suspendu l'accès à la rivière, tout était incroyable dans une immersion en pleine nature et avec les animaux., des couchers de soleil le promontoire .Séjour de 3 nuits parfait !!! Ressourcement assuré . Nous avons vu des singes des coatis des toucans, et multitude d'autres animaux Et la vue ! Je recommande +++++--- RAS
L'insonorisation des chambres mais c'est un problème général donc pas vraiment un souci !
- Isel (10/5): -
- Carmolius (8/5): mooie locatie nabij de vulkaan met mooie tuin/wandelpaden. - de locatie, prachtige tuin, mooie wandeltrials rondom. leuk zwembad De kamers zijn erg gehorig. Keuze van het ontbijt was beperkt. Diner erg prijzig.
- günter (10/5): - Super Lage inmitten des Regenwalds
Viele Tiere direkt bei der Loge
- Amy Barton (10/5): - My sister and I took this trip together. (We are both in our early 50s.) The lodge and trails were excellent!. They arranged transportation for us to and from the airport, as well as for all our off resort excursions. We chose one of the Smithsonian rooms and woke to a direct view of the volcano with birds chatting away and Coatis walking around acting like lawn crew just off of our porch. The dining was excellent. A full breakfast was included and the banana bread and fresh fruit and juices to start was incredible, followed by a choice of four hot courses. We hiked all the trails and climbed all the towers. They were safe, easy to navigate, and well marked. We heard howler monkeys, saw toucans and thousands of hummingbirds, a beautiful waterfall, and spectacular sunsets over the lake. There's a nice coffee shop with gift shop and free museum with all the history of the area and the eruption. We enjoyed the pool and spa. We would definitely return and bring all our family. We have nothing really to complain about. The only note we'd make is that the Smithsonian rooms are rustic and lodge like. You can hear your neighbors. It is poolside and near the game room. So, if you're wanting total peace and quiet there are other blocks of rooms that would be better for that. It did not bother us in the least.
- Manuel (6/5): - La vue est incroyable depuis la plateforme. La faune et la flore au sein de l'hôtel Le confort et la décoration de la chambre n'est clairement pas en adéquation avec le prix.
- Josée (10/5): -
- Josef (10/5): Family stay in the middle of nature - Integrated into nature Everything was great
- Jessica (10/5): -
- Law (10/5): Magical - The most incredible view I've ever had in my life, and I've travelled a fair bit. We were facing the volcano (with both double beds) and floor-to-ceiling glass windows. nothing
- Adrian (10/5): -
- Caitlin (10/5): Perfect! Amazing animal sightings - coati and birds everywhere. - This property was amazing. We barely scratched the surface of it in 3 nights. We got engaged here so we might need a trip back one day!
So many animals especially coati and birds. We did the night tour and saw frogs and snakes. We also did a free morning walk and went the same route as the night walk, seeing some more frogs. Unfortunately the weather was terrible so we didn’t see much else.
In the 3 days we were there is was raining most of the time and we don’t see the complete volcano at all. Not a problem though, the property was lovely. We stayed in the rooms with the shared bathroom which was better than expected, my only suggestion would be having a bath mat per room rather than only 1 in each bathroom as it was a little gross stepping on used bath mats from people you didn’t know. Overall very clean though!
- Edwin (10/5): -
- Margaret (10/5): -
- Michael (6/5): Tolle Natur, aber Service passte bei uns nicht zum Preis - Die Anlage ist schön angelegt und wirkt eher wie ein großer Garten, was es leicht macht, Tiere zu beobachten. Wir haben mehrfach Capybaras gesehen, außerdem Coatis, Tukane, Kolibris aus nächster Nähe und viele andere Vögel. Der Froschteich ist besonders hervorzuheben. Ein Besuch am Abend lohnt sich sehr.
Das Restaurant: Das Hühnchen hat uns richtig gut geschmeckt, manche Gerichte waren mittelmäßig. Sehr freundliche Bedienung. Frühstück war gut bis sehr gut. Für den aufgerufenen Preis hat der Service aus unserer Sicht klar nicht überzeugt. Einige Mitarbeiter an der Rezeption waren freundlich und professionell, andere Mitarbeiterinnen (nicht alle) wirkten distanziert und wenig engagiert. Insgesamt hätten wir uns deutlich mehr Unterstützung und ein anderes Auftreten erwartet.
Auf Nachrichten über Booking.com erhielten wir teilweise keine Antwort, sodass wir nachfragen mussten. Eine gebuchte Nachtführung wurde im Vorfeld bestätigt, ohne Hinweis auf eine Stornierungsregel. Vor Ort wurde dann auf eine 72 Stunden Regel verwiesen, die uns vorher nicht kommuniziert wurde. Hart, kein Lächeln. Die Klärung war unnötig aufwendig und erst nach mehrfachem Nachhaken möglich.
Die Wände waren zu hellhörig. Das Restaurant bemüht sich. Wie schon oben erwähnt, war manches Essen sehr gut. Manches nicht so sehr. Hier passt das, was andere Rezensenten vor mir bemerkt haben.
Insgesamt entstand bei uns der Eindruck, dass Zusatzleistungen und Einnahmen eine größere Rolle spielen als ein wirklich guter Service für die Gäste. Bei einem Gesamtpreis von etwa 2400 Dollar für drei Nächte hätten wir ein deutlich höheres Niveau erwartet.
Insgesamt war unser Aufenthalt nicht schlecht, aber gemessen am Preis und unseren Erwartungen hat es sich für uns nicht mehr gut angefühlt.
- Maud (8/5): Petit hotel tranquille au pied du volcan - L’emplacement face au volcan
La piscine et le jacuzzi
L’observation des oiseaux sur la terrasse du restaurant
La petite randonnée jusqu’à la cascade
Maria et Howard au restaurant, tellement adorables L’emplacement est magnifique mais eloigné des activités de la Fortuna donc pas mal d’aller et retour avec la voiture pour les hotsprings, la cascade, les restaurants…
- K7497HYjustind (10/5): Incredible Experience - Must-see spot in Arenal. The staff were very accommodating and helped me get a room on short notice as a solo traveler. The setting is beautiful and feels very close to nature.
Make sure to ask about “Papa’s place” for bird photography. It was one of the highlights of my visit. Also try to be on the deck around 1 PM when they feed fruit. You’ll see coatis and a lot of birds all at once.
The shuttle service to and from the rooms is very convenient, especially when it’s raining. I also recommend getting up early since that’s the best time to see wildlife.
Great experience overall, even just for a visit.
- Wirth (10/5): - Sehr schön gelegen, super sauber .
Die Anlage ist sehr gepflegt.
Außergewöhnlich.
Ich würde es direkt weiter empfehlen.
Leider hat das Restaurant zwar eine vegane und vegetarische Küche angeboten, aber ohne Proteine...das finde ich für dieses Niveau zu schwach.
Morgens beim Frühstück wurden die Stühle nicht gewischt, wenn Kinder dabei sind muß man alles kontrollieren.
- Kyoko (10/5): -
- Patricia (9/5): -
- rana (10/5): - The vibes of the places are hard to explain. Very unique experience. My family and i spent 2 nights there and we had so much fun. We spot birds, coati, monkeys and a sleepy froggy. Went into the free morning tour (lovely and highly recommended). Staff were very friendly Limited selection of dining places, the hotel is far from the city center/downtown and driving at night to get there from the hotel for dinner is not convenient, given the road conditions.
- Vahid (10/5): - It was our best experience in Costa Rica. Great breakfast with amazing views of the volcano and the lake. There was no need to go anywhere to see the birds. Just sit outside with the coffee and be patient, birds will come. Free hike, tractor ride, and pool were a plus. My only regret was that we stayed only one night.
- Dagmar (10/5): Ein unvergessliches Erlebnis dank traumhafter Lage und tollem Personal. - Die außergewöhnliche Lage inmitten der Natur und die wunderschöne Aussicht. Die Tierbeobachtungen von unserem Zimmer und auf unseren Walks mit dem Guide Christian. Die Morgen- und die Nachtwanderung sind absolut empfehlenswert. Auch die Wanderung zum Danta Waterfall ist wunderschön. Das Essen und der Service waren ebenfalls super und die Aussicht vom Restaurant atemberaubend.
- Pedro (3/5): Uma experiência cara e frustrante, em que falhas básicas de atendimento e operação ofuscaram completamente os pontos pos - O hotel possui aspectos positivos: a estrutura é bonita, os quartos são confortáveis e há trilhas na propriedade com um guia excelente, que foi um dos pontos altos da estadia. No entanto, fica a impressão de que há uma tentativa de economizar em detalhes essenciais, como atendimento, portaria e café da manhã, o que acaba comprometendo seriamente a experiência. Apesar de reconhecer alguns pontos positivos na estrutura, minha experiência geral foi bastante frustrante, especialmente considerando o valor da diária, em torno de R$ 1.700 (aproximadamente US$ 340).
O principal problema foi uma situação extremamente grave: ficamos literalmente presos dentro do hotel de madrugada. Havíamos informado previamente que sairíamos muito cedo para pegar um voo e fomos orientados a deixar todos os dados do transfer, incluindo nome do motorista e até a placa do veículo, pois alguém abriria o portão para a entrada dele. No entanto, ao acordarmos de madrugada, o portão estava simplesmente fechado, sem nenhum funcionário disponível para nos atender.
Vale ressaltar que o portão fica a cerca de 1 km da recepção e estava chovendo. Diante do risco de perdermos o voo, começamos a caminhar na chuva em direção ao portão. Apenas cerca de 30 minutos depois apareceu um funcionário para finalmente abrir a entrada para o motorista.
Isso é absolutamente inaceitável para um hotel desse padrão de preço. Um estabelecimento que cobra R$ 1.700 por diária não possuir recepção 24 horas, e nem mesmo um porteiro disponível, é algo difícil de compreender. A sensação de insegurança e descaso é enorme, especialmente quando você depende de um horário crítico.
Outro ponto decepcionante foi o café da manhã. Comparado a hotéis muito mais simples e significativamente mais baratos, com diárias 4 a 5 vezes menores, o serviço deixa muito a desejar. O sistema é limitado: você não pode, por exemplo, pedir ovos com bacon e também uma panqueca, precisa escolher apenas um prato. Além disso, o buffet é bastante básico, com poucas opções de frutas e pães.
No geral, é muito frustrante pagar um valor tão alto e passar por uma situação como ficar preso no hotel de madrugada, sob chuva, sem assistência. Não condiz com o padrão esperado para a faixa de preço.
- Mei (9/5): We enjoyed our two nights stay at the White hawk and the nature walks within the property. The staff and guides are all - Inside the national park, surrounded by nature, very good free guided morning walk. The guided night walk was great as well. So many types of birds and animals within the property. Very friendly staff. The restaurant could offer more choices on the menu.
- Esteban (10/5): Lugar espectacular - Las instalaciones, senderos, vistas, ambiente, todo fue perfecto. Todo fue perfecto
- Niccolo (10/5): - Trails, view, cleaniness room, food, internal transportation General reception staff mood
- Shadi (7/5): Overall interesting location but don’t have high expectations - The location is great. Although it would be tough for people who want to commute to the town. It’s unique in a sense that has wildlife and trails. Peaceful and interesting. I was a solo traveler and decided to stay for a night at a villa located far from the restaurant, pool, and jacuzzi. While the villa was clean, there were areas that could be improved.
Unfortunately, the staff was unhelpful. I had asked them over WhatsApp for a tour, but they didn’t respond, which affected my overall experience. I had planned to enjoy my time there by going on a night tour, but this was unfortunately not possible.
- Sandra (10/5): Great bird watching and lovely staff - Great to be in nature
- Navigator64667197965 (10/5): Unique & Special - This is one of those special places. It's not glamping. It's not over the top luxury. But it is the real deal. Completely unique. Head down the bumpy road, to the welcoming folks at the gate, and you may as well be entering jurassic park. Nature, history, knowledgable guides, great views and smiling faces all are abundant here. A truly unique experience - don't miss it.
- Matthieu (9/5): -
- GM (7/5): - La vue sur le volcan Arenal
L'accès aux sentiers
Le
- Rosa (9/5): - La vista Lo difícil de moverse sin transporte
- adamdO5770ZZ (8/5): Excellent nature trails - Really nice set of nature trails around the base of Arenal volcano including an observation tower which gives great views of the volcano and lake. Great gardens for bird spotting.
- Katie (5/5): Beautiful location, property and views. Needs updating of facilities overall - Views, location near volcano and lake views. Property is beautiful and lush with nice trails. Rooms and buildings need updating. Some staff not overly friendly. Room was very far away and uphill trek to pool and restaurant. Food is mediocre at best and no variety. Prices are much too high for quality.
- John (9/5): - Beautiful grounds and trails. Somewhat overpriced. Food was average.
- Michaël (9/5): - Le lieu, l'atmosphère, les sentiers, la maison louée Rien
- Shengming (10/5): -
- taymans (10/5): Paradis - Meilleur emplacement au pied du Volcan
Paradis évoluant entre oiseaux Acoutis Singes
- Karen (10/5): The settings and the staff provided a feeling of paradise - The views and being in nature We stayed in La Casona which is the least expensive room. The walls are thin so you hear your neighbors. One night a man who snored very loudly prompted me to use ear plugs.
- MARTINE (8/5): -
- Katherine (10/5): - Everything. The staff on reception were welcoming and helpful throughout the stay and remembered us and preferences. Even security at the gate were welcoming,. knowledgeable and caring you know it's it great hotel! The wildlife was incredible, the birds in particular were amazing. We loved having access to so many trials within the park and enjoyed two longish hikes during our stay where we saw a loads of flora and fauna including toucans and spider monkeys! The pool area was lovely and the views of the lake and volcano throughout the estate were awesome. We booked the room with the shared bathrooms which was also perfect for us. Bathrooms were very clean and well maintained, and it was quiet all day and night despite it being a shared area - great option if this is your budget. Breakfast was also delicious and in very close proximity to the national park for more walking. Would have happily stayed for longer and will be back! The hotel restaurant menu was quite expensive and a little limited in options. We enjoyed all the food we ordered but some more variety would be amazing
- 547pippas (10/5): Wish we’d been longer!! - We stayed here for 2 nights in the shared bathroom cabins. One full window view of the Volcano, the other of the lake - ask for room C1 if staying in this section!
We could easily have had a week here!! Loads of well marked trails, free activities and access to paid for tours. Restaurant right next to a bird feeder and we saw a lot of birds there, including different types of hummingbirds.
Would absolutely come back!!
- 706doreenl (10/5): Birds, birds and a few trails - We stayed in the Casonas lodging area. We had a beautiful view of the lake. The service was most excellent. Our breakfast was included in the stay. If you are a birder, this is a great place to stay. They offer free onsite nature walk three times a day. The food was excellent and staff is friendly and accommodating.
- Michele (10/5): Really wonderful, relaxing place to stay with amazing grounds, monkeys, birds, and coyotes on the property. Beautiful wa - Fabulous property with amazing views of the Arenal volcano. Gorgeous grounds, and hiking trails, a lovely pool and hot tub and nice restaurant. Lots of beautiful flowers and wildlife to see including tons of birds, Staff were helpful and friendly. Nothing
- Russell (10/5): The birders paradise in the shadow of Arenal Volcano - Wow if you want comfort, good food and helpful and friendly staff this is the resort for you! I like everything!
- Diana (9/5): Beautiful refuge to enjoy nature - A long drive, but ultimately worth it. Great trails and sort of secluded. A bird watchers paradise. The rooms were a bit noisy, the beds were a little hard, but the grounds made up for the modest rooms.
- Lauren (10/5): Amazing stay at Arenal Observatory Lodge - Beautiful low key lodge. Perfect for viewing birds and feeling immersed in the Arenal park. It’s remote but that is part of the beauty
- Björn (10/5): - Wir sind Ende Februar für eine Übernachtung und zur Vogelfotografie dort gewesen.
Sehr freundliches Personal und schöne Zimmer. Insgesamt eine tolle Location. Das Abendessen und auch Frühstück im Restaurant sind auch sehr lecker.
Wir haben eine Nachttour und eine Vogeltour am Morgen unternommen.
Es gab wirklich viele Vögel zu beobachten und auch zu fotografieren. Dazu auch Nasenbären, Schlagen und Frösche. Leider ist die Futterstation für die Vögel absolut nicht schön gestaltet. Es handelt sich um ein Metallgestänge. Absolut nicht gut geeignet um schöne Fotos zu machen. Das könnte auf jeden Fall verbessert werden. Da zeigen andere Standorte wie es deutlich besser geht.
- Irmgard l (10/5): -
- Casey (9/5): -
- brookea723 (10/5): Amazing. - Wonderful stay. Loved our room, our view, our guide, Nestor. We loved Mario the bartender, the feeders and the property I. General.
- Nicholas (9/5): -
- edwinbZ2518BL (10/5): Outstanding in all respects - What a fantastic experience I had staying at this lodge. The setting at the foot of the Arenal volcano is dramatic and, when the sky is clear enough to allow, a nature sight to behold. The lodge property has plenty going for it. The rooms are nice and built with hardwood appointments that feel appropriate for a nature lodge. The restaurant is excellent with food that you would be pleased to receive at a quality restaurant anywhere. The outdoor part of the property is a combination of jungle trails and absolutely beautiful gardens to stroll through and enjoy. I love nature in all respects, and particularly birds, and many guests come here for the birding opportunities. These opportunities do not disappoint. Staff puts out watermelon slabs for the birds to feast on twice daily, and feast they do. Which brings me to the most important tip: make sure that you spend the money on bird walks and a night walk with Observatory Lodge guides. The guides I had were so good, so skilled, that they made the experience all it should be. Kudos to Nestor, Gabriel, and Edward for stellar efforts. You will see exponentially more birds and wildlife with these guides. Lastly, you will be impressed with all staff, very attentive and good-natured. Everyone brings the effort. What a place! Do not hesitate to book!
- Marta (10/5): Mogłabym się gapić na widok z tarasu przez cały pobyt- zapiera dech w piersiach… - Dzięki doborowi roślin ogromna łatwość i przyjemność obserwacji kolorowych ptaków na tle wulkanu z tarasu widokowego (koniecznie zabierzcie lornetkę!). Duży teren ośrodka z łatwymi szlakami pozwala na cieszenie się naturą osobom z niepełnosprawnością lub małymi dziećmi. Przewodnik z hotelu w trakcie nieodległego spaceru zapoznał nas z bardzo ciekawymi faktami na temat lokalnych roślin i zwierząt. Ostronosy gromadami biegają niczym kociaki przy balkonach - ogromna frajda dla dzieci. Aaa no i przepyszne śniadanie w cenie ze szwedzkim stołem z owocami 🤩
- TAO (10/5): Amazing place and time for my family! - Perfect environment in tropical forest, amazing casa luna relax area, with hanging bed,lots of sofa and couches, listening the rain. Amazing bird station and trees, we have seen lots of beautiful birds, including different kind of tucans. The chocolate tour is amazing, Carlos is a great and passionate guide farmer. The staff is very kind and helpful. The restaurant is great, with fast and organic foods. staffs are very nice.
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