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Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

3.0 star property
Mountain lodge with spa, near Arenal Volcano National Park

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets
Poolside bar
Terrace/patio
Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; international cuisine
White Hawk Villa | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets
Nestled near Lake Arenal, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offers a serene retreat with free breakfast, a garden, and an on-site spa. Take in the views from the terrace or enjoy activities like hiking/biking and horseback riding. With high-speed WiFi in public areas, an outdoor pool with sun loungers for relaxing afternoons.
VIP Access

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Airport transfer
  • Bar
  • Pool

Main amenities (12)

  • Daily housekeeping
  • Restaurants and bar/lounge
  • Full-service spa
  • Outdoor pool
  • Children's pool
  • Hot tub
  • 2 meeting rooms
  • Airport shuttle
  • Area shuttle
  • Terrace
  • Garden
  • Arcade/games room

Feel at home (6)

  • Children stay free
  • Children's pool
  • Playground on-site
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Daily housekeeping

Room options

Check availability for these dates

Tonight
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Check availability for tonight Oct 4 - Oct 5
Tomorrow
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Check availability for tomorrow Oct 5 - Oct 6
Available filters for rooms
Showing 5 of 5 rooms

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(27 reviews)

Highlights

Garden
Balcony or patio
Free cots/infant beds
Ceiling fan
Separate bedroom
Private bathroom
Eco-friendly toiletries
Coffee/tea maker
  • 25 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Superior Room, Mountain View

Superior Room, Mountain View | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

Superior Room, Mountain View

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(30 reviews)

Highlights

Garden
Balcony or patio
Free cots/infant beds
Ceiling fan
Separate bedroom
Private bathroom
Eco-friendly toiletries
Coffee/tea maker
  • 20 sq m
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for White Hawk Villa

White Hawk Villa | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

White Hawk Villa

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Garden
Balcony or patio
Free cots/infant beds
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Eco-friendly toiletries
Coffee/tea maker
Daily housekeeping
  • 20 sq m
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 8
  • 2 King Beds, 2 Single Beds and 2 Single Trundle Beds

View all photos for Phil's Villa + Waterfall

Phil's Villa + Waterfall | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

Phil's Villa + Waterfall

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

Garden
Balcony or patio
Ceiling fan
3 bedrooms
Private bathroom
3 bathrooms
Eco-friendly toiletries
Coffee/tea maker
  • 3 bedrooms
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 10
  • 3 Queen Beds

View all photos for House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(5 reviews)

Highlights

Garden
Balcony or patio
Ceiling fan
Separate bedroom
2 bathrooms
Eco-friendly toiletries
Coffee/tea maker
Daily housekeeping
  • 1 bedroom
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Similar properties

Terrace/patio

Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience

  • Pool
  • Free breakfast
  • Airport transfer
  • Free parking
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, 1,002 reviews
The price is ฿4,587
฿5,184 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience
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About the area

Map
22 km Oeste de la Fortuna de San Carlos, 1.7 km del Volcán Arenal, La Fortuna, Alajuela, 21007

What's nearby

  • Costa Rica Sky Adventures - 11 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Arenal Volcano National Park - 22 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park - 28 min drive - 15.4 km
  • Ecotermales Fortuna - 32 min drive - 21.6 km
  • La Fortuna Waterfall - 43 min drive - 28.2 km

Getting around

  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) - 50 min drive
  • San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) - 45.7 miles/73.5 km
  • Airport shuttle (surcharge)
  • Area shuttle (surcharge)

Restaurants

  • ‪Virgita Ristorante - ‬28 min drive
  • ‪Shangri-La Gardens - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Red Frog Coffee Roaster - ‬31 min drive
  • ‪Roca di Baldi Sports Bar - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Las Palmas - ‬28 min drive

About this property

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails puts you within a 15-minute drive of Lake Arenal. Guests can visit the spa to indulge in deep-tissue massages, aromatherapy or reflexology, and international cuisine is served at El Jilguero, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. An outdoor pool, a bar/lounge and a hot tub are other highlights at this Colonial lodge. The helpful staff and overall property condition get great marks from fellow travellers.

At a glance

DONE

Hotel size

    • 48 rooms
DONE

Arriving/Leaving

    • Check-in start time: 3 PM; check-in end time: 10 PM
    • Minimum check-in age – 18
    • Check-out time is noon
DONE

Special check-in instructions

    • The front desk is open daily from 7 AM - 10 PM
    • Front desk staffed during limited hours
DONE

Required at check-in

    • Credit card, debit card or cash deposit required for incidental charges
    • Government-issued photo ID may be required
    • Minimum check-in age is 18
DONE

Children

    • Up to 2 children (aged 8 years old and younger) stay free per registered adult when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
    • No cots (infant beds)
DONE

Pets

    • No pets or service animals allowed
WIFI

Internet

    • Free WiFi in public areas
LOCAL_PARKING

Parking

    • Free on-site self-parking
    • Wheelchair-accessible parking on site
DONE

Transfers

    • Airport shuttle on request (available 24 hours a day)*
DONE

Off-site

    • Area shuttle*
DONE

Other information

    • Smoke-free property

Property amenities

Food and drink

  • Free cooked-to-order breakfast each morning 6:30 AM–8:30 AM
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/lounge

Travelling with children

  • Children stay for free (see details)
  • Children's pool
  • Playground
  • Pool gate

What to do

  • Ecotours
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Horse riding/hire
  • Table football
  • Ping pong
  • Bike rentals nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Zip-lining nearby
  • Hot springs nearby
  • Fishing nearby

Working away

  • 2 meeting rooms

Services

  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Tour/ticket assistance
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Pool loungers

Facilities

  • Built in 1992
  • Safe-deposit box at front desk
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Library
  • Fireplace in reception
  • Television in common areas
  • An outdoor pool
  • Arcade/games room
  • Full-service spa
  • Hot tub
  • Massage/treatment rooms
  • Colonial architecture

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Accessible airport shuttle
  • No lift (single-level property)
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Pool access ramp on site

Room amenities

Home comfort

  • Ceiling fan
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Window screens

Sleep well

  • Bed sheets provided

What to enjoy

  • Balcony or patio
  • Garden

Freshen up

  • Shower only
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Towels
  • Toilet paper

More

  • Daily housekeeping
  • In-room safe (laptop compatible)
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • LED light bulbs

Special features

Spa

Guests can pamper themselves with a trip to the on-site spa, which has 1 treatment room. Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, Swedish massages and facials. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy and reflexology. The spa is open daily.

Dining

El Jilguero – This family restaurant specialises in international cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Fees & policies

Optional extras

  • Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of USD 225 per vehicle (one-way. Maximum occupancy 7)
  • Local area shuttle service is offered for an extra charge

Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)

  • Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Policies

This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children. If you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
This property does not have lifts.
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products.
Guests can rest easy knowing that there's a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector on-site.
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).
This property accepts credit cards and cash.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover

Also known as

Arenal Observatory Lodge La Fortuna
Arenal Observatory Lodge
Arenal Observatory La Fortuna
Arenal Observatory
Arenal Observatory Hotel La Fortuna De San Carlos
Arenal Observatory & Trails
Arenal Observatory Lodge Spa
Arenal Observatory Lodge Trails
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Lodge
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails La Fortuna
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Lodge La Fortuna

Frequently asked questions

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offer free cancellation for a full refund?

Yes, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in, depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure that you check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.

Is there a pool at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yes, there's an outdoor pool and a children's pool. Guests have pool access from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Are pets allowed at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Sorry, neither pets nor service animals are allowed.

Is parking offered on site at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yes, there's free self parking.

Is an airport shuttle service offered by Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yes, an airport shuttle is available. The charge is USD 225 per vehicle one-way.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Check-in start time: 3 PM; check-in end time: 10 PM. Check-out time is noon.

What is there to do at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails and nearby?

Have fun with on-site activities such as horse riding and hiking. Additional recreation on-site includes ecotours. Indulge in a treatment at the spa and soothe your senses in the hot tub. Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails also has an outdoor pool and an arcade, as well as a garden.

Are there restaurants at or near Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yes, El Jilguero offers international cuisine.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails have any outdoor private spaces?

Yes, every room features a balcony or patio and a garden.

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Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Popular mentions

View
Service staff
Volcano
Room
Trails
Restaurant
Wildlife
Birds
Location
Food

What guests liked

  • Breakfast was excellent with great selection and delicious options. (19 reviews)
  • The spa treatment was fantastic and highly recommended, providing a relaxing experience. (7 reviews)
  • Dining at the property was consistently excellent with delicious meals and friendly staff. (5 reviews)
AI Sparkle IconFrom real guest reviews summarized by AI.

Reviews

10/10 Exceptional

Great place to stay. The trails were amazing.
CHRISTINE, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Increíble lugar, vista insuperable, excelente atención del equipo
Mónica, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Awesome views, friendly staff and excellent breakfast
Heather, 4-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

We really enjoyed out time here. It was quiet and felt secluded, yet we could walk to town.
Morgan, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

The Arenal Lodge is a great stay and a great way to see the area. Thoroughly recommend.
K. Alexandra, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Great place to stay while visiting Arenal Volcano

We enjoyed the scenery, breakfast, free guided tour, and the trails around the property. The setting was very beautiful. We had a great time there, and will highly recommend it for visiting Arenal Volcano area.
2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Beautiful property with great hiking/walking paths and lovely restaurant on site. Shared accommodations totally met our needs and was very comfortable. Very friendly, helpful staff.
Zoey, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Beautiful property and excellent staff
Daryl, 4-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

nice welcoming , beautiful view
marie, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Magical! The hiking trails, wildlife, breakfasts, and staff made this lodge extraordinary. Waking up to volcano views and amazing birds was so special. While it is a little off the beaten path, it is well worth the extra few minutes.
Laura, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

A very peaceful spot. Nice and well marked trails with an abundance of birds and insects to see.
Mario, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

isolated quiet and good staff.
brian, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Great staff - always helpful, Exceptional breakfast
Carolyn, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Buen hotel aunque el desayuno estuvo muy limitado
Javier, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

It was an amazing experience!
Prema, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Nice place
Bozena, 1-night trip

8/10 Very good

Everything was good. The dinner menu could use a few more choices. Sandwiches for those not so hungry or not in the mood for the fancier dishes.
Marcus, 4-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Amazing stay - beautiful room and view, many onsite trails and amenities included in stay, tons of wildlife and birds, great staff and breakfast. This is one of the best places we have ever stayed.
Alejandro, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Great location with amazing views of the arenal volcano. We spotted some unique birds. The breakfast included was great and service was very good. Only complaint is they did not include water bottles in the room and would charge for that.
Vinod, 1-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Beautiful scenery. Comfortable room with a view to observe wildlife! Food at restaurant was ok not that great seeing that it’s the only place to eat . Ground were beautiful and staff very friendly and informative . Guided nature hikes were great!
June, 2-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Loved the Arenal Volcano Lodge! Feels similar to staying in the National Park lodges in Yellowstone or Glacier. Although it is a bit of a drive, it is much less touristy than La Fortuna hotels. Extensive grounds with lots of wildlife and birds, observation tower, nature walks with knowledgeable guide etc. Rooms were very nice with balcony. Dining was quite good which was important give the distance to other restaurants. Staff was very professional and friendly. Highly recommend!
Thomas, 3-night trip

8/10 Very good

Tres beau lieu de repos et de ressourcement naturel, Belle nature a découvrir en couple ou entre amis ayant le.meme objectif. Trop loin malheureusement
Corine, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

We were so headed that we decided to stay here. It was fantastic. Location, grounds, amenities. I highly recommend it
Maryann, 2-night trip

8/10 Very good

comfortable rooms, clean, walkable trails
Nancy, 3-night trip

10/10 Exceptional

Well recomended

Wonderful area, good bird watching with feeders. The trails are challenging and very steep. Breakfast was great, and room was excellent with a terrace.
Maureen, 3-night trip