The setting is stunning, coatis wandering about, beautiful birds, lovely pool. A free guided walk which was good, but perhaps easier done alone as the group can be large. Our room (Smithsonian) was fabulous with amazing views. We were 2 adults, 2 teenage boys. The restaurant was a little disappointing, albeit fine, a bit canteen style. One night when we'd... More

After staying at 6 different places in Costa Rica, this has to be my favorite. The grounds of the "hotel" are spectacular. It's like being in a movie. The staff is wonderful. The rooms were clean. The pool and hot tub were awesome. We took a tour of Volcan Arenal with a guide from the lodge (Eduardo, I think) and... More

A fantastic setting right opposite the imposing Arenal volcano as well as a lake. It is wonderful for bird watchers a they put fruit on a feeder which attracts many birds. The Montezuma's oropedolas are particularly fond of the feeder and give wonderful displays right in front of the viewing platform. There are also coatis which leap up onto the... More

This was our second stay at the Observatory Lodge and we will be back as soon as possible. You cannot beat the location (wildlife incl. birdwatching, hikes, volcano views). We had a Suite the first time and a "Smithsonian" room the second time, and the fact that you get your own terrace and exclusive volcano and lake views is definitely... More

We felt that this was the perfect "home base" for our 4 days in the Arenal area, and we are so glad that we didn't stay in one of the resorts closer to La Fortuna. Yes, the drive into town takes 20 minutes along a bumpy road, BUT this place was like a slice of heaven. I was anticipating something... More

This is a spectacular property with very reasonable price. We stayed in a "Smithsonian" room with two queen beds and breakfast included fir $166. This room faces the volcano and has a garden outside. Five years ago, when I first visited Arena, we actually saw the lava flow in the middle of the night. We were not so lucky his... More

The location is amazing. Our family spent two nights, which went by fast. I wish we had planned more time in this location, as we left without seeing many of the trails, and would have loved to have spent more time on the deck watching wildlife. The grounds are beautiful, and full of Howler monkeys, Coatis, and birds. We never... More

Arenal Observatory Lodge is a really special place. A nice lodge at the foot of the volcano with tons of wildlife and free walking trails spilling out from it; this place is an outdoor lovers haven. The rooms were nice, the bed was comfortable and the service was very friendly. They have beautifully landscaped outdoor areas, and a great hot... More

We stayed in a one of the rooms facing the volcano and it was truly a delight to wake up to that kind of view in the morning. The complimentary breakfast is absolutely delish -- expect a full breakfast of eggs, yuca, plantains, fruit, tropical juice, cheese, etc. All the food is fresh and not what I expected in a... More