Arenal Volcano Inn, Arenal/La Fortuna

Pros

• Guests appreciate the pretty gardens and views of the volcano from some rooms.
• The staff is cheerful, and the rooms are spacious and clean.
• Located just outside La Fortuna, the hotel is a quick drive to all major attractions in the Arenal area.
• The rooms are scattered throughout the property, surrounded by gardens and in small one-floor buildings, creating a cozy village-like feel.

Cons

• WiFi can be spotty around the property.
• The pool area is quite large and doesn't get too crowded.
• Some parts of the property get traffic noise from the main road.

Authenticity

Arenal Volcano Inn is a simple Costa Rican hotel with an authentic jungle/village atmosphere. The property consists of 25 rooms in cabin-like buildings surrounded by greenery, so you don't feel that you're just in a standard hotel setting but actually in Costa Rica. Though some may feel that the hotel is old-fashioned, that's part of the authentic charm, and everything is well-maintained.

Location

The hotel is conveniently located just outside La Fortuna, a mere 10-minute drive away. While it sits close to the main road, the noise doesn't reach the rooms, ensuring a peaceful stay. Though there's no option to walk outside the property, you'll still be close enough to the shops and cafés in La Fortuna and other areas when traveling by car. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms at Arenal Volcano Inn are spacious, clean, and have various configurations. The Standard and Deluxe rooms feature two queen beds, the Villa has four queen beds, and the Junior Suite has one king bed. Each room features a terrace and a shower. The villa also includes cooking facilities with a microwave and stove. The rooms have large windows that let in plenty of light, and all rooms have air-conditioning with individual temperature selection.

Wildlife

Arenal Volcano Inn's tropical gardens are home to native birds and wildlife. A trail leads through the less-tended areas of the gardens, where guests may spot toucans, butterflies, hummingbirds, and howler monkeys.

Amenities

Arenal Volcano Inn has two outdoor pools: a larger one and a smaller kids' pool. There are loungers and picnic tables around the side of the pools, as well as an outdoor shower and an outdoor hot tub. A walking trail is open to guests, and the property also features a volleyball court and a tennis court. Some rooms have been adapted for wheelchair users.

Family-Friendliness

The hotel is family-friendly, with a walking trail where kids can spot birds and animals, a kids' menu at the restaurant, and a children's pool. Kids will also enjoy the shallow sandy end of the main pool.
Villas are ideal for families as they can sleep up to six people and have fully equipped kitchens, washing machines, and dryers. Children don't stay for free but are charged reduced rates based on their age groups. Cribs and extra beds aren't available. 

Other Highlights

A breakfast buffet is served at the on-site Que Rico restaurant (and is included in the room rate). The venue opens to the public for lunch and dinner; it's popular with locals and features Costa Rican, Italian, and international cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas. An attached bar serves local and international wine, beer, and cocktails. Que Rico sometimes hosts live music in the evening.