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Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

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

Photo gallery for Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Step into a charming two-story home with a spacious porch and scenic views.
Relax in this spacious living area with a high ceiling, sliding glass door to a balcony, and comfortable seating for two.
Relax in a spacious area with high ceilings, featuring a sofa, chess table, and leather couch, offering views of a serene landscape.
Enjoy the serene views of the surrounding landscape from this outdoor deck, overlooking the scenic Los Monos River Trail.
Experience tranquility amidst lush gardens and breathtaking mountain views.

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Pool

Explore the area

Map
22 km Oeste de la Fortuna de San Carlos, 1.7 km del Volcán Arenal, La Fortuna, Alajuela, 21007
  • Arenal Volcano
  • Costa Rica Sky Adventures
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • La Fortuna Waterfall
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal)
    ‪41 min drive‬

Room options

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

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(5 reviews)

Highlights

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

View all photos for Superior Room, Mountain View

Superior Room, Mountain View

Superior Room, Mountain View

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(30 reviews)

Highlights

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

View all photos for White Hawk Villa

White Hawk Villa

White Hawk Villa

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

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

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(25 reviews)

Highlights

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

View all photos for Phil's Villa + Waterfall

Phil's Villa + Waterfall

Phil's Villa + Waterfall

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)

Highlights

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

About the area

La Fortuna

A family-friendly stay in La Fortuna awaits you at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails. You'll be 4.6 km (2.8 mi) from Lake Arenal and 5.4 km (3.4 mi) from Costa Rica Sky Adventures. Highlights at this Colonial lodge include a full-service spa, a restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool. .A day of pampering can include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages and detox wraps along with aromatherapy and reflexology. The family restaurant, El Jilguero, serves international cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For a drink, you can stop by the lodge's own lounge bar. Enjoy the Hot tub, kids' swimming pool and pool loungers as well as access to ecotours. Plus you'll find free Wi-Fi in public areas and laundry facilities. Free cooked-to-order breakfast is available daily between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM. There's also free self parking, along with the convenience of an airport shuttle. .Places within a 30-minute drive of this 3-property class La Fortuna lodge include Butterfly Conservatory and Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park.
View more Lodges in La FortunaOpens in a new window

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

Colonial lodge with full-service spa and free breakfast
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offers its guests a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and Access to hot tub. There's a restaurant on site. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. Free breakfast is served daily. WiFi is free in public spaces.

There are 2 meeting rooms available. A children's pool, a library, and a terrace are also featured at the family-friendly Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails. An airport shuttle (available 24 hours) and an area shuttle are available for a fee. Self parking is free.

This Colonial La Fortuna lodge is smoke free.

  • 48 guestrooms or units
  • Built in 1992
  • Cooked-to-order breakfast (free)
  • Poolside lounge chairs
  • Self-service laundry
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Front desk safe
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Games room or arcade
  • Library
  • Terrace
  • Garden
  • Gift shop
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Television in lobby
  • No smoking on site
  • Bar or lounge
  • Dining venue
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offers 48 accommodations with laptop-compatible safes and coffee/tea makers. Rooms open to balconies or patios. Bathrooms include a shower and complimentary toiletries. Housekeeping is provided on a daily basis.
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.

Languages

English, Spanish

Similar properties

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Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience

  • Pool
  • Breakfast included
  • Kids pool
  • Parking included
4.7 out of 5, Exceptional, 1,004 reviews
The price is AU$236
includes taxes & fees
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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

  • Pets and service animals are not allowed at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! Up to 2 children aged 8 years old and younger stay free per registered adult when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

Payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

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

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. 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. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and cash. This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in all accommodation.

We should mention

  • Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Up to 2 children aged 8 years old and younger stay free per registered adult in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.
  • Pets and service animals are not allowed on site.
  • 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

What is the cancellation policy at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

Is parking available at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yep, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails has a free self car park.

Is there a spa on site at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yep, there is an onsite spa at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails. You'll enjoy heaps of services like detox wraps, body wraps and body scrubs, as well as hot stone massages.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails have a pool?

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails has an outdoor pool and a kids' pool. Grab your bathers and lounge poolside while enjoying on a lounger. The pool is open 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

What makes Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails a romantic place to stay?

1 hot tub and couples spa treatments, as well as private balconies in the guestrooms, all help set the scene for a romantic weekend at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails.

Is Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a children's pool, a playground and an arcade, it's no surprise that Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is a hit with families.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails serve breakfast?

Sure does, complimentary cooked-to-order brekkie is available daily between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

No, but there's an airport shuttle that runs 24 hours a day on request for a fee.

Is there a bar or restaurant at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yep, they've got a lounge bar and an onsite restaurant that serves international cuisine. Pre dinner cocktails anyone?

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

Check-in begins at 3 PM. Check-out time is noon.

Are pets allowed at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

No, pets and service animals are not allowed.

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 692 out of 869 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 140 out of 869 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 30 out of 869 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 869 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 869 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

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I stayed at this facility primarily for access to birding opportunities. The trails are in excellent condition and easy to walk if you’re in decent shape. I did get some of my target birds, and did not run into many people at all on the trails. There is lots of good birding opportunities within a few short drives of this location too. Food was excellent and room very comfortable
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 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

Richard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very good.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan, Cohasset

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolutely wonderful place to stay in the Arenal Volcano area. We were there for five nights and enjoyed seeing many species of birds both from their large observation deck and on the birding walk with Nestor and the Nature walks with Christian. The view of the volcano and lovely Arenal Lake is magnificent! Also saw several cute and friendly coatis and a spider monkey mama cuddling her baby up in the trees. The staff, though, is the BEST part of staying here! They are all friendly, attentive and accommodating to your wishes or needs. Can't say enough good things about this aspect of the hotel! Muchas gracias por la Pura Vida!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property has an excellent location. The restaurant is also really good. Our first room a short drive away had a very nice balcony. We upgraded to the volcano view room on the 2nd night but the room we were given was different from the photos, very small and not large enough for 3 people. The front desk agreed to move us and after some discussion it was resolved.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alison

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our two-day retreat at Arenal Observatory Lodge was nothing short of magical. Nestled amidst the lush rainforest, the lodge offers an unparalleled connection to nature. Waking up to a symphony of birds and the breathtaking view of the volcano was a rejuvenating experience for the soul. The abundance of birdlife and plant species made every moment a discovery. The well-maintained trails and observation decks provided serene spots to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding us. On our final evening, we dined at the lodge’s restaurant, El Jilguero. The meal was exquisite! From starters to desserts, compliments to the chef. What truly set our experience apart was the warmth and friendliness of the staff. Their genuine hospitality made us feel welcomed and cared for throughout our visit. Arenal Observatory Lodge isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a sanctuary that nourishes the spirit and reconnects you with nature. We left feeling refreshed, inspired, and eager to return.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maureen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

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.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

marie

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

10/10 Excellent

Mario

Travelled with family
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

Maryann

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We were so headed that we decided to stay here. It was fantastic. Location, grounds, amenities. I highly recommend it
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Prema

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

8/10 Good

Cathy

Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A friend and I stayed here for a week on a birding trip to Costa Rica. We found most aspects of AOL to be good, but we really disliked our restaurant experience. I have food allergies and gave the staff a translated card explaining what I can and cannot eat. This approach worked well in every other place we stayed, but not at AOL. I was provided with a meal that I was told the next night was not appropriate for my diet. So why did they give me that meal the first night? The exact same thing happened another night. On yet another day I ordered hummus with gluten free bread, only to find that the bread was still frozen. And yet again on another day, I ordered hummus with gluten free bread, only to discover that the bread on my plate was not gluten free. For an establishment that advertises their high quality restaurant and high prices, this is just not acceptable. As you can imagine, by the time I left after a week, I was quite ill.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shreyaben

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daryl

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

Mathew

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful place, up close to volcano, beautiful grounds, flowers and birds everywhere. Pictures don't do it justice. Staff all extremely helpful, we had a flat tire the last day of our trip and had a flight to catch - one staff member took us to an air pump on site, but then we discovered the nail in the tire, so another staff member helped us put on the spare and we managed to make our flight! So very grateful! Food delicious at the restaurant as well. Hope to come back here some day.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful property! Extremely well managed and professional, friendly and helpful staff. The best of Costa Rica is well represented here. Pura vida!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Stephen, Shreveport

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The property grounds and hiking trails were amazing. The road to get there was rough.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Arenal Observatory adventure

We absolutely loved our stay at the Observatory Lodge. Such a beautiful location, lovely room, helpful staff especially Christien our guide on the first morning - we learned so much about the flora and fauna. The setting was stunning, view of the volcano myriad birds and animals - difficult to express more how wonderful our stay was. Steve and Sally
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Douglas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lynne

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved being so close to the volcano and waking up to a group of coatis on our deck. Hiking was fabulous and the staff was wonderful.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steven, Centerville

Travelled with family, Travelled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
3 night stay Und of February with 2 adults and 3 boys under 12. This place was a Peacful & Serine Jungle Stay. This property exceededed expectations. From gaming rooms, pool, hot tub, dining. Walk right out to the trails with a short drive to Lafortuna. We Hiked, did horseback riding, ziplines and swam waterfalls. We do recommend rental car. Down side is there is No AC but evening are cool in the jungel and a ceiling fan helps. Also no mini fridge or ice machines we had to get it from the dining facility. This place is well kept with a natural feel. Definitely recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025