Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa is a splendid retreat nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano, offering guests stunning panoramic views and an ideal location for both relaxation and adventure. The proximity to La Fortuna and various attractions like hot springs and hiking trails makes it a perfect base for exploring the region. The hotel stands out for its serene atmosphere, surrounded by lush gardens that blend seamlessly with nature.
Guests are consistently impressed with the breakfast experience at the hotel, enjoying a wide variety of fresh fruits, local dishes, and international favorites. The breakfast buffet excels in quality and satisfaction, with guests particularly praising the omelette station and the attentive, warm service of the staff. Dinner at the hotel is equally delightful, featuring delicious meals crafted with exceptional quality, often accompanied by live music, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.
Accommodations at the hotel are exceptional, known for their spaciousness and comfort, with each room providing breathtaking views of the volcano. Guests appreciate the luxurious amenities, including in-room jacuzzis and king-size beds, which contribute to a tranquil and cozy atmosphere. The overall cleanliness of the hotel is highly praised, with meticulously maintained rooms and grounds that reflect an emphasis on guest comfort and satisfaction.
The staff receives accolades for their outstanding hospitality, characterized by friendliness, attentiveness, and a genuine dedication to enhancing the guest experience. The onsite spa and pool facilities are another highlight, offering high-quality spa treatments and beautifully maintained hot springs and pools that invite relaxation and enjoyment.
Families find the hotel particularly appealing, with spacious suites and numerous amenities designed to entertain both children and adults. The natural surroundings, wildlife sightings, and family-friendly features create an enriching and joyful experience for all ages. While some reviews mention minor drawbacks like the Wi-Fi quality or restaurant ambiance, the hotel's positives far outweigh these concerns.
Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa embodies a special charm that resonates with visitors, offering a remarkable blend of luxury, nature, and hospitality that many guests fondly remember and recommend for a memorable stay in Costa Rica.
Arenal Backpackers Resort, located in La Fortuna, is highly praised by guests for its convenient and superb location. It offers easy access to the city center, the bus terminal and popular attractions such as the Arenal Volcano and Bogarin Sloth Trail. The resort is slightly off the main hustle, providing a peaceful environment while maintaining proximity to local restaurants and shops. The property features ample green spaces, a beautiful pool area and communal spots perfect for relaxation and socializing. Unique lodging options, including the charming cylinder rooms with mountain views, enhance the stay.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at the resort with guests frequently commending the well-maintained, tidy rooms and communal areas. The showers and toilets are cleaned daily, ensuring a pleasant and hygienic experience across the board. Staff at the resort are generally seen as friendly, helpful and attentive, though there are occasional mentions of unenthusiastic or rude interactions.
The pool is a notable highlight, appreciated for its size, cleanliness and inviting ambiance. Swings and loungers around the pool, combined with the landscaped gardens, create a serene retreat. The well-maintained common areas complement the pool, making it a favorite spot for relaxation and social interaction.
Despite some mixed reviews about the breakfast and dinner with mentions of limited options and occasional service delays, the on-site availability of meals is seen as convenient. The WiFi is mostly reliable, although it can be spotty in certain room types like the cylinder pods. Secure and free parking is another appreciated amenity, ensuring safety and convenience for those driving.
In summary, Arenal Backpackers Resort is an excellent choice for adventurous travelers, offering a blend of comfort, cleanliness and convenience. Its unique accommodations, beautiful surroundings and strategic location make it a memorable stay amidst the natural beauty of Arenal.
Nayara Gardens is a 5-star hotel that offers accommodation in casitas and villas that combine Costa Rican elements with luxurious amenities in order to provide an outstanding accommodation experience for all guests. Apart from comfortable accommodation, guests can also pamper themselves with the spa treatments offered, taste unique Costa Rican flavours, dive in the outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery and spend the most relaxing time away from their daily routine.
Summary of reviews
Nayara Gardens is a highly recommended luxury resort located in the heart of the rainforest, providing a magical and unforgettable experience. The exceptional staff goes above and beyond for guests, providing customer service that is unparalleled. The breakfast is a standout feature with a wide variety of options available and made to order items. The restaurants on the property are also highly rated, offering delicious food and good drink options. The rooms are spacious, luxurious and beautifully designed, offering stunning views of the nearby Arenal volcano. The hotel is immaculate with attention paid to every detail, ensuring that guests can relax in the impeccably clean surroundings. The hotel offers a fantastic spa experience along with an array of outstanding pool areas, making it easy to unwind and relax. Nayara Gardens is highly recommended for anyone seeking a top-notch luxury vacation or a romantic retreat.
This exotic hotel is surrounded by lush greenery and offers accommodation in tastefully appointed rooms and suites, as well as invigorating spa treatments and delicious dining options at the bar and restaurant.
Summary of reviews
Lost Iguana Resort and Spa is a luxurious and idyllic hotel located in the heart of the lush jungle, offering stunning views of the Arenal volcano from every room, balcony and patio. The hotel is perfect for relaxation and exploring the area with its own hiking trails through the jungle and close proximity to Mistico Park and the hanging bridges excursion. The breakfast buffet is generally superb with a good selection of items, while the dinner menu is reasonably priced for a luxurious hotel. The staff is outstanding, friendly, accommodating and professional, going out of their way to make guests' stay comfortable. The spa provides a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere with jungle views, while the pool area is surrounded by beautiful gardens and jungle. The hotel is a perfect family destination, offering plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and very clean with stunning views and unique furnishings. The hotel offers an unforgettable luxurious experience, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa is beautifully nestled within a lush tropical landscape, offering an unforgettable backdrop with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano. This prime location strikes a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, providing convenient access to La Fortuna's vibrant town, natural attractions, and a multitude of excursions and activities. Guests consistently praise the well-maintained gardens and array of beautiful thermal pools.
The breakfast experience impresses with its extensive selection, highlighting fresh fruits, a variety of breads, eggs, meats, and traditional Costa Rican dishes. While some suggestions for improvement exist, the breakfast is frequently described as delightful and a great start to the day. In contrast, opinions on the dinner offerings are mixed. Guests commend the a la carte and on-site restaurants for their delicious meals and attentive service, while buffet options receive some critique for not matching the hotel’s five-star standard.
Rooms at the hotel are generally appreciated for their spaciousness, cleanliness, and comfort, especially with features like balconies offering volcano views. Despite some reports of outdated decor and amenities needing upgrades, the access to hot spring pools and enchanting surroundings contribute to the overall positive experience. The exceptional standard of cleanliness throughout the hotel is often highlighted, with spotless rooms and meticulously maintained grounds enhancing the serene ambiance of the property.
Guest feedback celebrates the staff for their professionalism, friendliness, and attentiveness, creating a welcoming and home-like environment. The staff's bilingual skills contribute to a comfortable and satisfying stay, complemented by positive encounters at the spa. The hotel’s spa offers a rejuvenating and relaxing atmosphere, providing a variety of personalized treatments in a tranquil environment, often noted as a must-visit.
The extensive selection of thermal water pools, offering varying temperatures and sizes, is a major highlight. Guests enjoy the beautifully landscaped environment, suitable for all ages, providing both relaxation and fun, with options like an adults-only section for added serenity. The resort’s family-friendly atmosphere caters to children and adults alike, ensuring a great experience with its inviting water slides and late pool hours.
The beds, often described as very comfortable, provide restful nights for guests, although some minor bedding quality improvements are suggested. While some aspects of the breakfast and style may not meet every expectation for a five-star hotel, the overall luxurious ambiance, outstanding customer service, and fair pricing make Baldi a renowned spa resort combined with a waterpark experience. It offers a distinctive getaway in the heart of Costa Rica, inviting guests to return for its unique charm and appeal.
Positive reviews of The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only highlight the exceptional facilities, including the thermal water spa and the superb service provided by friendly and accommodating staff. Guests are blown away by the beautiful surroundings and magnificent property, making for an amazing experience. Many guests would definitely stay at this fabulous hotel again in the future. While some guests noted that prices were a bit high compared to other 5-star hotels and that certain areas could be improved, overall, The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only is an exceptional, true 5-star resort that comes highly recommended.
Hotel Mountain Paradise is renowned for its breathtaking location, offering guests stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and a serene environment that fosters relaxation. Its slightly secluded position provides a perfect balance between solitude and easy access to the town of La Fortuna. Visitors are charmed by the beautifully landscaped gardens and an abundance of wildlife that enhances the natural, tranquil setting. The hotel's spacious rooms and impressive facilities, including hydro massage bathtubs and jacuzzis, contribute to a luxurious stay, with the comfort of large beds being a standout feature.
The overall cleanliness of the hotel generally receives positive reviews, with clean amenities and well-maintained spaces playing a crucial role in guest satisfaction. Daily housekeeping adds to the sense of order and comfort, while the hotel's idyllic ambiance remains a highlight for many guests. Despite occasional issues like ants in some rooms, most visitors appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and splendid views.
The staff at Hotel Mountain Paradise consistently earn high praise for their warm and welcoming hospitality. The exceptional service, particularly from individuals like Melissa at the front desk and Luis at the pool bar, adds to the memorable guest experience. The friendly and proactive approach of the hotel team underscores an overarching dedication to guest satisfaction.
Breakfast receives mixed reviews, with simple and repetitive choices highlighting room for improvement in variety and creativity. On the other hand, the pool area is celebrated for its picturesque views and enjoyable environment, complemented by a well-liked swim-up bar and lively atmosphere.
One notable area for improvement is the WiFi connectivity, which guests find unreliable, especially within their rooms. Nonetheless, the scenic beauty and thoughtful amenities at the hotel contribute significantly to a sense of relaxation and enjoyment for visitors seeking a unique mountain retreat.
Buena Vista Chic Hotel stands out as an exceptional hotel choice for travelers seeking both convenience and a connection to nature. Guests are captivated by the breathtaking views of the San José valley and Alajuela from its serene hilltop location, just a short drive from the airport and local attractions like Poás Volcano. The property is surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens and offers delightful walks amidst coffee bushes, providing a tranquil escape while remaining easily accessible with complimentary airport shuttles.
The hotel offers a delightful breakfast experience that guests consistently enjoy, featuring a variety of fresh fruits, egg dishes, pancakes, and Costa Rican specialties starting as early as 5:30 AM. The dining experience is enhanced by exceptional service and picturesque views from the breakfast area. Although dinner reviews are mixed, many guests appreciate the excellent food, service, and enchanting dining settings.
Rooms at Buena Vista Chic Hotel are beautifully appointed with artistic charm and modern comforts, including newly renovated bathrooms, soft bedding, and plush pillows. Spacious rooms and villas with large balconies offer stunning views and are perfect for families or groups. The exceptional cleanliness and immaculate condition of the rooms and facilities further enhance the overall experience.
The staff at Buena Vista Chic Hotel are consistently praised for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism, making guests feel at home and ensuring an inviting atmosphere. Their organizational skills, particularly in arranging tours and activities, contribute to a seamless guest experience.
The hotel also features a small but charming pool nestled within its well-maintained gardens, offering a delightful spot for relaxation with breathtaking views. For families, the hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere with spacious accommodations, a small pool, and a playground, making it a perfect choice for family vacations.
Additionally, the hotel offers convenient parking options and a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, catering to guests’ needs effectively. With its charming and elegant boutique ambiance, Buena Vista Chic Hotel is a romantic escape that invites travelers seeking luxury, tranquility, and a memorable boutique experience.
Hotel Martino Spa and Resort is widely praised for its serene and convenient location, nestled in nature yet just 10 kilometers from the airport. Guests appreciate the tranquil surroundings, beautiful gardens and the large swimming pool, making it an ideal choice for both short stays in Alajuela and as a gateway for exploring Costa Rica. The setting is both peaceful and accessible with helpful front desk staff and enjoyable breakfast options enhancing the experience.
Breakfast at the resort is generally seen as enjoyable, though opinions vary. Many guests praise the breakfast for its taste and essential offerings, particularly the individually prepared egg dishes and excellent customer service. However, some feel the options are limited and repetitive, wishing for more variety to better match the hotel's class.
The resort's dining experience, heavily centered on Italian cuisine, receives high marks. Guests commend the quality and taste of the food, particularly the fantastic pizza, pasta and meat dishes, although some feel the menu could be more exciting. The restaurant's ambiance, especially near the pool, adds to the overall positive dining experience despite a limited cocktail selection.
The rooms at Hotel Martino are described as spacious, comfortable and clean with stylish decor. While there are occasional mentions of dated interiors and minor maintenance issues, the general consensus is positive. Guests appreciate the roomy accommodations, clean environment and the relaxing balconies that offer beautiful views of the surroundings.
Cleanliness at the hotel receives mixed reviews. Many guests highlight the high standards maintained by the cleaning staff, particularly in the pool and rooms. However, some note inconsistencies and areas in need of maintenance, including issues with mold and aging furniture.
The staff is consistently praised for their friendliness and professionalism, especially at the front desk. Staff members are often highlighted for their helpfulness and attentiveness, notably enhancing the guest experience. Despite a few reports of rudeness from breakfast staff, the majority of interactions are positive, contributing significantly to the overall pleasant atmosphere.
The spa services at the resort are well-received, although limited availability to weekends has led to some guest disappointment. The pool, on the other hand, consistently garners high praise for its size, cleanliness and aesthetic appeal, providing a delightful oasis for swimmers and sunbathers alike.
Lastly, the beds are frequently noted for their comfort, contributing to a restful stay. While there are occasional remarks about noisiness or firmness, most guests find the beds and bedding more than satisfactory.
Overall, Hotel Martino Spa and Resort offers a blend of serene natural surroundings, comfortable accommodations, reliable service and enjoyable dining experiences, making it a recommended choice for travelers seeking both convenience and relaxation.
Hotel Arenal Lodge offers a serene and picturesque retreat in the heart of nature, distinguished by its outstanding location with breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano. The lodge is surrounded by lush landscapes, rich wildlife and scenic trails that guests find magical. The tranquil and remote setting provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle with significant mentions of the serene ambiance and flawless maintenance of the grounds. The proximity to popular attractions like Mistico Park adds to its appeal.
The included breakfast at the lodge is generally well-received, featuring traditional Costa Rican dishes with fresh fruit and good coffee. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and the spectacular views from the breakfast room enhance the dining experience. However, some guests wish for more variety and larger portions. Dinner reviews are mixed with many appreciating the delicious food, friendly service and charming ambiance, although others point out the inconsistent quality and higher prices. The cocktails receive favorable remarks, reinforcing a pleasant dining vibe.
The rooms at Hotel Arenal Lodge are spacious and offer stunning views of the volcano and the surrounding jungle. They feature rustic, colonial-style décor, contributing to a quaint and charming atmosphere. However, several guests comment on the need for renovation, noting outdated furnishings, dim lighting and maintenance issues. Despite these concerns, the rooms provide a cozy and large space for relaxation. Cleanliness across the hotel has mixed reviews with many finding their accommodations clean and comfortable, though some areas and rooms could improve with more attention to detail.
The staff at Hotel Arenal Lodge are frequently praised for their exceptional service, friendliness and attentiveness. Guests highlight the warm, welcoming atmosphere and personal touches, such as helpful arrangements and upgrades provided by the staff, including the owners.
While the WiFi is noted to be unreliable, the amenities such as the lovely heated pool, well-maintained hot tubs and private walking paths with scenic trails greatly enhance the guest experience. The parking facilities are convenient and secure, providing peace of mind for travelers driving to the lodge.
Although the beds offer a mixed experience with some finding comfort in spacious arrangements, others report firmness and noise issues. The overall condition of the beds and linens could benefit from updates.
Hotel Arenal Lodge stands out for its beautiful setting, exceptional staff and numerous amenities, offering a tranquil and memorable escape into nature. Despite some areas needing improvement, the lodge's unique charm and spectacular views leave a lasting positive impression on its guests.
Villa San Ignacio earns high commendations from guests for its overall charm, functionality and excellent value. Positioned conveniently near the San José International Airport, it serves as a perfect stopover for travelers either arriving in or departing from Costa Rica. The hotel manages to maintain a serene, secluded ambiance, despite its proximity to a somewhat noisy road, offering a refreshing contrast to the bustling city center. The lush tropical garden setting, colonial hacienda charm and easy access to local attractions like the Poás Volcano enhance its appeal.
Guests consistently praise the culinary offerings, particularly the breakfast, which is both varied and delicious. Traditional local dishes such as Gallo Pinto, fresh fruit and quality coffee are commonplace and served in a beautiful terrace setting that overlooks the garden. The on-site restaurant also excels in dinner service with many guests highlighting the exceptional quality, taste and presentation of the food, including vegan options. Many also appreciate the attentive and accommodating staff, further elevating the dining experience.
The rooms at Villa San Ignacio are noted for their spaciousness and comfort. While some might describe the decor as simple and occasionally dated, most agree that the rooms are clean, bright and well-kept, featuring comfortable beds and beautiful views from terraces and balconies. Impeccable cleanliness is a defining feature of the property with both the common areas and individual rooms receiving high marks for maintenance and hygiene.
Remarkable hospitality is a hallmark of Villa San Ignacio. The staff is frequently lauded for their friendliness, professionalism and attentiveness, contributing to a superior guest experience. Personalized service, helpful guidance and an efficient check-in process are among the many positive remarks from guests. The staff's exceptional service at the Pandora Restaurant is specifically noted, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Family-friendly amenities make the hotel a hit among families with well-maintained family suites, connected rooms and engaging activities for children. The secure environment and facilities, such as the pool and indoor games, ensure a pleasant stay for families.
The hotel’s modern and comfortable business facilities also rate highly. The availability of meeting and conference rooms, reliable Wi-Fi and the quiet setting near the airport are praised by business travelers. The accessible parking facilities and clean, inviting pool further add to the convenience and enjoyment of guests.
In summary, Villa San Ignacio successfully combines comfort, style and practicality, offering a memorable stay through exceptional dining, beautiful surroundings, friendly service and excellent amenities. It stands as a top choice for various types of travelers, from families and business travelers to tourists seeking a restful stopover near the airport.