How is Eco Thermales? We're looking to get away from our fellow Americans while in CR and heard Eco Thermales is smaller, quieter and less populated than Tabacon Hot Springs. Does it have a view of the volcano though?

Any opinions?

We didn't go there, but we did go to Baldi's. I'd highly recommend it - less crowded than Tabacon and very nice. It has about 7 different pools, two swim up bars etc...

you got it right suki, eco thermales is the `secret' springs and the best,
http://costa.rica.typepad.com/photos...lafortuna.html

heres a photo of the volcano i took from eco thermales:

http://costa-rica.typepad.com/photos...lviolcano.html

Beautiful photos, Guanacaste!!! I'm going to Eco Thermales in August -- can't wait now!

Sandy

right on! i'm there! thanks guanacaste.

thx, glad you liked the photos.

p.s: one `no miss' in la fortuna is the waterfall:

http://costa-rica.typepad.com/photos...erfalljpg.html

bit of a hike down so don't wear reef walkers

I was underwhelmed by Ecotermales. That was probably because we had a hot pool at our hotel (the Lost Iguana), so by the time we went to Ecotermales, we'd spent several hours sitting in hot water already.

You should also inguire about the status of their construction. If it is finished there are probably great improvements, but if it isn't I'd go elsewhere.

As for crowds, we opted for early evening and were amazed at how crowded (with mostly teenagers!) it was. However, but 6:15, their bus must have left, because it really emptied out.

Also, we confirmed with the owners that Ecotermales is the same as "Hidalgo Hot Springs." Disney Adventure Tours is starting to offer Costa Rica trips, and Hidalgo Hot Springs is on their agenda, so it would be go to go when the tour groups aren't there.