Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
You came to Costa Rica to experience its rainforest, volcanoes, and nature. Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa gives you access to of this in one extraordinary location. There are 870 acres on our property to explore, including 270 acres of natural primary rainforest with rivers and waterfalls, 400 acres of reforested land and tropical gardens, and 200 acres of pastureland. Our gardens and landscaping are extravagantly designed with colorful flowering plants, shrubs, and trees chosen to attract wildlife, like jewel-toned hummingbirds, brilliant butterflies, and exotic birds.
Unlike other hotels in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, we are the only hotel located within the Arenal Volcano National Park. When the national park was formed in November 1991, its boundaries encompassed our ranch. No other hotel is as close to the Arenal Volcano, Cerro Chato, and Lake Arenal as we are. While on the property you can always feel the volcano’s commanding presence.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa was originally built in 1987 as a scientific research station for the world-famous Smithsonian Institution. After Arenal Volcano’s sudden and dramatic explosion into life in 1968, Smithsonian Institution scientists began frequenting the area and would camp on our family’s land because of its strategic location. We built cabins and a small hotel to take care of them and expanded over the years.
Our Lodge
Considered one of the best places to stay in the Arenal area, the historic Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa offers 48 comfortable hotel rooms in various buildings spread over the property, and two unique Costa Rican vacation home rentals. Five rooms are fully equipped for disabled travelers, with rooms, bathrooms, hallways, parking areas, and even the new swimming pool designed accordingly. Enjoy delicious meals in our lodge restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows for gazing at the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal, and a huge observation deck just outside. Our Observatory Spa will help you relax with massages and other body therapies.
We are a sustainable eco-lodge with a rating of Four Leaves in the Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program (CST) by the Costa Rican Tourism Board. Additionally, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa consistently wins TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence award every year and is a proud member of its Green Leaders program.
Address: La Fortuna
Website: www.arenalobservatorylodge.com