Arenal Country Inn, Arenal/La Fortuna

Pros

• The inn is strategically situated just a 15-minute walk from downtown La Fortuna and within a 25-minute drive to La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano National Park.
• The swimming pool is large and offers views of the volcano. 
• Staff are friendly and responsive, promptly addressing guests' needs via WhatsApp.
• An excellent complimentary breakfast buffet is served al fresco in a covered paddock area.
• The well-kept grounds and gardens are a haven for local wildlife.

Cons

• The decor in most rooms is a bit dated and minimalistic, and the smallest rooms can feel cramped.
• Bathrooms are stocked with basic, generic toiletries, so it's best to bring your own if you have specific preferences.
• Some rooms have gaps between the floor and the door where insects can get inside, and thin walls can let in noise from other rooms. 

Authenticity

This family-run boutique property has a relaxed, welcoming feel, with cheerful bungalows dotted throughout the lush grounds. The owner's friendly dogs greet travelers upon arrival, and a simple but hearty al fresco breakfast buffet is served ranch-style in a covered paddock area. The surrounding gardens and tall palm trees are frequented by local wildlife such as toucans, sloths, and lizards, and the sounds of the jungle and views of the Arenal volcano from the pool area add to the inn's rustic charm. 

Location

Arenal Country Inn is perfectly situated between downtown La Fortuna and the area's surrounding nature. It's a 15-minute walk to the town center, where you can explore local shops and restaurants, and a 25-minute drive to major attractions like La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano National Park. El Salto Rope Swing, a popular local swimming hole, is also within walking distance for a refreshing dip.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The inn's 20 rooms are spread between 10 privately situated bungalows, reached by following winding pathways through the well-manicured grounds. Each room has comfortable beds and bedding, a mini-fridge, air-conditioning, and small terraces. The smallest rooms have one king bed but can feel cramped—opt for the Standard options for two double beds and a bit more space to spread out. Family rooms can sleep up to five between double and single beds. Bathrooms are simple and clean with basic amenities.

Amenities

The inn's expansive outdoor swimming pool has an adjacent patio, volcano views, and a private setting among leafy trees and gardens. There's also a smaller, shallower pool for kids. The bungalows are all single-story and connected via flat walkways for good accessibility, but some are too small to accommodate wheelchairs comfortably. There's no on-site restaurant, but guests love the complimentary, all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast served in an open-air paddock. A partnership with a nearby restaurant means you can also order food from the pool by placing an order with the staff.

Family-Friendliness

Families are welcome at Arenal Country Inn. Babies under two stay free, while ages three to nine are charged a reduced rate. There's a children's pool and rooms designed to accommodate larger families. Younger guests will love the game room with a foosball table, and parents with strollers will have no problem navigating the grounds. 

Wildlife

You can expect to see colorful tropical birds like toucans and butterflies around the grounds, as well as sloths, turtles, and iguanas. The owner's friendly German Shepherds serve as the inn's official mascots.