Amor Arenal, Arenal/La Fortuna

Pros

• The property appears hidden away in the jungle, with individual cabins surrounded by greenery, yet offers plenty of Arenal Volcano views. 
• Each bungalow features its own furnished terrace and private outdoor Jacuzzi tub.
• Relax in the three soaking pools with natural, mineral waters—one featuring a swim-up bar. 
• A meditation room and yoga deck are suspended in dense greenery.
• Enjoy your meals at six different eateries and bars: three bars, a coffee shop and bakery, and two restaurants serving traditional food with an international twist.
• You'll find a few hiking trails on the property's grounds. 

Cons

• Though privacy is a big part of the hotel's appeal, the property is a bit out of the way compared to other Arenal lodgings.
• The hotel's bars close at 10 pm, a downside for night owls.
• The minimum age for guests is 13, so it's not an option for families with young children.

Authenticity

Amor Arenal might offer the ultimate Costa Rican experience, as its bungalows sit in a line surrounded by dense greenery yet above the treetops for incredible views. The natural pools range in temperature and use mineral water, and the on-site eateries feature local and regional cuisine. Add an open-air spa, and you'll experience nearly every aspect of the country's appeal.

Location

Amor Arenal offers an ideal location for those looking for a tranquil stay yet wanting to explore the area's attractions. You'll be at the end of a dirt lane, just a three-minute drive to the region's main road. And because the hotel is about halfway between downtown La Fortuna and the national park, you can easily get to both with a rental car or private transfer. 

Rooms and Bathrooms

Each room is a cabin suspended in the trees, providing a furnished terrace, private Jacuzzi tub, and walk-in shower with panoramic windows looking out into the jungle. Hardwood, cathedral ceilings, and neutral tones create a warm, cozy space. Choose from one king or two queen beds, both options providing air-conditioning, minifridges, seating areas, private entrances, and coffee makers.

Wildlife

In addition to spotting colorful butterflies and insects, guests will likely spot birds, including toucans, parrots, parakeets, royal flycatchers, and woodpeckers, while relaxing on your private terrace or by the outdoor pools. It's also possible to see capuchin monkeys and sloths lazing about trees.

Amenities

Amor Arenal has a lot to enjoy, but one of the highlights is its outdoor mineral pools. Two offer a more social experience, one with a wet bar and the other surrounded by lounge chairs and an artificial waterfall. The other provides a quieter soak, completely engulfed by nature. You can also book treatments at the Rainforest Spa and attend a complimentary daily yoga class.

Family-Friendliness

Kids under 13 are not permitted at the hotel. The hotel calls itself "adult-friendly," and the amenities cater primarily to adults traveling without children. Older kids will enjoy the outdoor pools and find some good options at the hotel's dining venues.

Other Highlights

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at Amor Arenal, which has six dining and drinking venues. A breakfast buffet is served at El Rancho, the main restaurant, which stays open all day, specializing in international cuisine with a Latin American twist. Other highlights include a bar specializing in tropical cocktails, an on-site coffee shop, and a swim-up bar at one of the pools.