24 Km Oeste De La Fortuna De San Carlos,
La Fortuna,
Costa Rica,
13411-1000,
Alajuela
-
Near Arenal Volcano National Park
Perfect
9.1
9.7
/10
4.8
4.7
/5
Loved by Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails guests
Amazing views
Free morning tours
Well-kept trails
Delicious breakfast
"We loved our 'Smithsonian room', with its ever-changing view of the Arenal volcano."
Ann V from Canada
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"Once you arrive there, you just notice that you're surrounded by magnificent gardens and you have at your disposal several trails."
Alberto from Portugal
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"Miles of trails, perfect for hiking and birding"
Ian from United States
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Location
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is strategically located within the Arenal Volcano National Park, offering easy access to hiking trails, rivers, and waterfalls. It is the closest hotel to Arenal Volcano, Cerro Chato, and Lake Arenal, providing guests with stunning views from various points on the property. The lodge encompasses 870 acres of preserved land, including 270 acres of primary rainforest with abundant flora and wildlife.
Rooms
The lodge provides a variety of accommodations including 48 comfortable rooms and two vacation villas. Smithsonian and Junior Suite rooms have private balconies offering unobstructed views of Arenal Volcano. For families, Phil's Villa and White Hawk Villa can accommodate up to 10 guests, featuring fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas.
Wellness
Guests can rejuvenate at the Observatory Spa, which offers a range of therapeutic treatments designed to promote relaxation and healing. The spa includes specialized services like deep tissue and aromatherapy massages, alongside additional wellness packages. Relax in the natural hot springs available on-site, providing an authentic Costa Rican wellness experience.
Dining
The on-site restaurant, El Jilguero, features large windows showcasing breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Guests can enjoy a variety of meals with an emphasis on local and international cuisine. Happy hour at Chato's Bar invites visitors to unwind while soaking in the serene ambiance and scenic vistas.
Activities
Multiple guided tours and experiences are offered, including birdwatching expeditions that explore the rich biodiversity surrounding the lodge. Trails spanning over 11 kilometers are available for hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking, allowing guests to fully experience the surrounding nature. Additionally, the property includes observation towers and a historical museum focused on the natural history of the Arenal area.
Highlights
Location: Closest hotel to Arenal Volcano
Rooms: Smithsonian and Junior Suite rooms
Wellness: Observatory Spa & hot springs
Dining: Restaurant El Jilguero with volcano views
Activities: Birdwatching & hiking tours
Must-do experiences
Visit La Fortuna Waterfall for a refreshing swim and views.
Try Casados at Soda La Hormiga for an authentic local meal.
Explore the ancient petroglyphs at the Cabanga Indigenous site.
Take a night tour at the Arenal Observatory for incredible wildlife.
Stroll through La Fortuna's artisan market for unique souvenirs.
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Select your room type
The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Smithsonian Room Waterfall
2 persons
220 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Balcony
room details
La Casona Rooms Share Bathroom & Private Room
2 persons
2155 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
White Hawk Villa Waterfall
2 persons
1615 sq. feet
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
room details
Phil’s Villa Waterfall
2 persons
1615 sq. feet
2 Queen Size Beds
Shower
room details
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Facilities
The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Sports & Fitness
Canoeing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Table tennis
Fishing
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Children
Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Children's pool
Children's play area
Game room
Spa & Leisure
Infinity pool
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Jacuzzi
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Full body massage
Pool with view
Shallow end
Room features
Sitting area
Dressing area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Bathroom
Free toiletries
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Dining Onsite
Dining at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails centers around El Jilguero, a cozy venue that serves delightful local cuisine amidst the beauty of the Costa Rican landscape. Guests can indulge in hearty breakfasts and flavorful dishes while soaking in the natural surroundings, making every meal a tranquil experience.
El Jilguero
Local
Ambiance
Set in a warm and inviting space, El Jilguero offers a rustic yet comfortable atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Key Offerings
Savor an ample breakfast selection featuring hot coffee, fresh juices, and traditional dishes such as Costa Rica's famous 'gallo pinto' made with rice and black beans, complemented by homemade breakfast bread.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open daily from 07:00 to 20:30.
Location
24 Km Oeste De La Fortuna De San Carlos,
La Fortuna,
Costa Rica,
13411-1000,
Alajuela
Map view
24 Km Oeste De La Fortuna De San Carlos,
La Fortuna,
Costa Rica,
13411-1000,
Alajuela
City landmarks
Volcano
Arenal Volcano National Park
1.4
mi
Landmark
Arenal Volcano
1.4
mi
Landmark
Chato Volcano
1.5
mi
Landmark
Laguna Cerro Chato
1.5
mi
Landmark
Cerro Chato Lake
1.6
mi
Landmark
La Fortuna Arenal Volcano Rain Forest Reserve
1.6
mi
Landmark
Sky Trek Sky Tram
2.0
mi
Nature reserve
La Fortuna Waterfall
3.0
mi
Zoo
Arenal Eco Zoo
3.0
mi
Landmark
Arenal 1968 Volcano View and Lava Trails
2.8
mi
Landmark
Rio Fortuna Waterfall
2.9
mi
Landmark
Costa Rica Dog Rescue & Adoption
2.9
mi
Landmark
Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
2.9
mi
Nature reserve
Arenal Volcano National Parks
3.0
mi
Nature reserve
Butterfly Conservatory
3.1
mi
Gallery
Wood & Art Gallery
3.4
mi
Amusement Park
Kalambu Hot springs
3.9
mi
Landmark
Termales Los Laureles
4.3
mi
Nearby
Park
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
1100 ft
Restaurants
El Jilguero restaurant
1200 ft
Arenal Observatory Lodge
Explore La Fortuna
Local Experiences
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Arenal Volcano National Park
25 minutes' walk
Home to spectacular views and diverse wildlife, this park features trails through lush forest and volcanic landscapes.
La Fortuna Arenal Volcano Rain Forest Reserve
30 minutes walking
Rich in biodiversity, this reserve includes hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the area's flora and fauna.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
4 minutes' walk
An informative site offering exhibits on the area's natural history along with proximity to the stunning Arenal Volcano.
Hiking Trails
25 minutes walking
Venture into Arenal Volcano National Park for exhilarating hikes with stunning views and unique wildlife encounters.
Relaxing Hot Springs
10 minutes' drive
Get rejuvenated at nearby hot springs like Tabacon, where natural thermal waters provide a perfect relaxation experience.
Sky Trek Sky Tram
35 minutes walking
Experience thrilling zip-lining and breathtaking tram rides that offer stunning aerial views of the Arenal landscape.
El Jilguero Restaurant
5 minutes' walk
A cozy spot featuring traditional Costa Rican dishes with a local flair; try their famous Casado for a full meal.
Don Rufino
10 minutes' drive
A sophisticated dining experience offering a mix of Costa Rican and international cuisine with a stylish atmosphere.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
10 minutes' drive
Engage with local wildlife in an interactive environment; family-friendly with guided tours to enhance the experience.
Regular Live Music Events
10 minutes' drive
Various local bars host live music across genres, offering great atmosphere for relaxed evenings or lively nights out.
Getting around
City Centre
La Fortuna13 min
·
5.0
mi
Airports
La Fortuna (fon)47 min
·
19.4
mi
Liberia Airport (LIR)207 min
·
85.8
mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 07:00-12:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
is available in public areas for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails serves a full breakfast for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
42
FAQs
About Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
How far is Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails from La Fortuna?
The hotel is located 22 km from La Fortuna.
What is the closest airport to Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
Aeropuerto de La Fortuna is 35 km away from the hotel.
What main facilities are available at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, spa, games room, and a bird sanctuary.
What room amenities can I expect at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?