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Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

3.0 star property
Colonial lodge with full-service spa and free breakfast

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets
Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; international cuisine
Poolside bar
1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets
Terrace/patio
VIP Access

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Hot tub
  • Spa
  • Pool
  • Laundry

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Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 5 of 5 rooms

View all photos for 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
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
2 bathrooms
Eco-friendly toiletries
Coffee/tea maker
Laptop-compatible safe
  • 1 bedroom
  • Lake view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for 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
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
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

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
Ceiling fan
2 bedrooms
Eco-friendly toiletries
Coffee/tea maker
Laptop-compatible safe
  • 20 sq m
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 8
  • 2 King Beds, 2 Twin Beds and 2 Twin Trundle Beds

View all photos for 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
Separate bedroom
Ceiling fan
Private bathroom
Eco-friendly toiletries
Coffee/tea maker
  • 25 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for 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
3 bedrooms
Ceiling fan
3 bathrooms
Eco-friendly toiletries
Private bathroom
Coffee/tea maker
  • 3 bedrooms
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 10
  • 3 Queen Beds
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About the area

Located in La Fortuna, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is in the mountains and in a national park. Costa Rica Sky Adventures and Ecotermales Fortuna are worth visiting if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Arenal and Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Travelling with kids? Don't miss Butterfly Conservatory. Kayaking and rafting offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and cave exploring nearby.
Visit our La Fortuna travel guideOpens in a new window
View more Lodges in La FortunaOpens in a new window
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

Restaurants

  • ‪Virgita Ristorante - ‬28 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Río Lounge - ‬39 min drive
  • ‪Agua Ardiente Pool Bar - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Red Frog Coffee Roaster - ‬31 min drive
  • ‪North Fields Café - ‬32 min drive

About this property

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Family-friendly lodge near Lake Arenal
Located close to Costa Rica Sky Adventures and La Fortuna Waterfall, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails provides free cooked-to-order breakfast, a terrace and a garden. Active travellers can enjoy hiking/biking trails, horse riding and ecotours at this lodge. Treat yourself to a hot stone massage, a body wrap or a body treatment at the on-site spa. The on-site international cuisine family restaurant, El Jilguero, offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Stay connected with free WiFi in public areas, and guests can find other amenities, such as a playground and an arcade/games room.
Other perks at this lodge include:
  • An outdoor pool and a children's pool, with sunloungers
  • Free self-parking
  • A round-trip airport shuttle (surcharge), a gift shop and a table football
  • Massage treatment rooms, ping pong and luggage storage
  • Guest reviews say great things the helpful staff, first-rate property condition and location
Room features
All guest rooms at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails boast comforts, such as laptop-compatible safes.
More amenities include:
  • Eco-friendly toiletries and showers
  • Private gardens, LED light bulbs and coffee/tea makers

Languages

English, Spanish

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • 24-hour return airport shuttle on request for a surcharge
  • Area shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free cooked-to-order breakfast available daily 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • El Jilguero

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Children's pool
  • Ecotours
  • Foosball table
  • Full-service spa
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Horseback riding/rentals
  • Hot tub
  • Library
  • Outdoor pool
  • Playground
  • Table tennis
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Arcade/game room
  • Children's pool
  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Playground
  • Pool gate

Conveniences

  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • 2 meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • In the mountains
  • Pool loungers
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • Aromatherapy
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Detox wraps
  • Facials
  • Hot stone massages
  • Prenatal massages
  • Reflexology
  • Spa open daily
  • Swedish massages
  • Treatment room

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Accessible airport shuttle
  • No lift (single-level property)
  • Pool access ramp on site
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

More

  • Built in 1992
  • Colonial architecture
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker

More

  • Ceiling fan
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Laptop-compatible safe
  • LED lighting
  • Window screens

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3 PM; check-in end time: 10 PM
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon

Special check-in instructions

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

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

No pets or service animals allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
2 children, per adult, up to the age of 8 years, can stay for free if using existing beds when occupying the parent or guardian's room
Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
Cots (infant beds) are not available

Payment types at the property

Important information

Optional extras

  • Airport shuttle fee: USD 225 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 7)

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
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

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms
No pets and no service animals are allowed at this property
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly)

Property is 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 have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool and a children's pool. Pool access is from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Is Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Self-parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

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

What time is check-out at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Checkout is at noon.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails provide a shuttle to the airport?

Yes, there's an airport shuttle that runs on request. A fee of USD 225 per vehicle applies.

Where is Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails located?

This family-friendly La Fortuna lodge is located in a national park, 2.8 mi (4.6 km) from Lake Arenal, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Costa Rica Sky Adventures and Butterfly Conservatory. Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park and Ecotermales Fortuna are also within 12 mi (20 km).

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Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 694 out of 872 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 141 out of 872 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 30 out of 872 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 872 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 872 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence L

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful spot to explore the cloud forest around Arenal volcano. Great trails for nature lovers with lots of birds and monkeys. Great breakfast buffet. However, the dinner options were a little disappointing and pricey.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sonja

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Gorgeous property and very friendly staff! We had access to viewing so many birds and we loved that there were onsite guided walks. The food was amazing as well! We are looking forward to returning.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Morgan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We really enjoyed out time here. It was quiet and felt secluded, yet we could walk to town.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tony

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lots of wildlife and trails on property. Close enough to everything but far enough that it’s quiet. Staff super friendly and having food available with their restaurant was a big plus. I’d stay here again if ever back in La Fortuna.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

K. Alexandra

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Arenal Lodge is a great stay and a great way to see the area. Thoroughly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eran

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing hotel The area is beautiful, lots of activities within the hotel Close to all the activities of Fortuna and Arenal Rooms are nice, great views Food is delicious, every dish we ordered was great The entrance to the hotel area is a bit of terrain and not paved road, easy with a 4x4 but also doable with normal car. We loved everything and enjoyed every moment there, would be more than happy to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jolie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property. Friendly service. Need transportation since it is away from other hotels, restaurants, etc. plenty to do on the property with hikes, waterfall, wildlife, etc
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

stephen

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A little dated but for us the grounds made up for it. Recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zoey

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daryl

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property and excellent staff
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Travis

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great overall experience. I would recommit to everyone.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

ileana

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was stunning. Gorgeous views of lake, mountains and volcano. Beautifully kept grounds . The room itself as very cool design . Simple but had an entire glass wall overlooking the most stunning view . There were a few things that we didn’t like . No refrigerator and the door didn’t properly close and bugs got in several times mainly spiders .
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Philip

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful room, great property for viewing wildlife
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vinod

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Norma

Liked: Cleanliness
This hotel is beautiful and the location makes you feel like you are living in a rainforest. The free breakfast was a nice touch each morning. The dining room was large and the dining staff was very friendly. We booked a room with a balcony and that was so relaxing!!! The rooms were very nice and the bathrooms were very clean. The only drawback was the back roads getting to this hotel. The potholes were a nightmare!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

marie

Liked: Amenities
nice welcoming , beautiful view
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ligia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
General experience
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

brian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
isolated quiet and good staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mario

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A very peaceful spot. Nice and well marked trails with an abundance of birds and insects to see.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

June

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Nancy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
comfortable rooms, clean, walkable trails
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Priscilla

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolutely beautiful property with tons to do within the property. Well maintained trails perfect for beginners. The staff was very professional and pleasant. Free activities in the lodge were great, especially the guided hike with their very knowledgeable guide. Beautiful surrounding towns. The free breakfast at the restaurant on site was very good. Lunch and dinner on site were expensive so we drove about 10-15 minutes off property and there were tons of options. We booked an economy room in the casona with a shared restroom and it was lovely. Will definitely return.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Prema

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was an amazing experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025