kittyb

in reading all the posts i am not sure what is the nicest hotel around the volcano or lake we really dont care the exact location but would like a fairly upscale place.we will have 4 teenage boys on our trip.

Iza

The problem with Arenal accommodations is that they tend to be a bit rustic and not very upscale.

I think that Tabacon would be considered most upscale but it lacks character (it is like a decent standard American hotel) - boys would probably enjoy breakfast which is a huge buffet spread. Staying there would also give you free access to the hot springs which are a definite "don't miss".

People on this board like Montana de Fuego and Arenal Paraiso but those hotels are in a more rustic category (wooden bungalows with a decent bathroom and porch and great views of the volcano if you are lucky with the weather).

Arenal Lodge also gets good reviews but it is located further away. If you don't care that much about the volcano viewing, La Mansion Arenal gets very good reviews and definitely looks upscale. You would be still further away from La Fortuna, on the lake.

RufusTFirefly

If you want night views of the volcano, Arenal Paraiso and Montana de Fuego are your best bets. We stayed at the Arenal Paraiso in January. Yes, they are polished woodn "bungalows," but there is nothing shabby or unpleasant about them. There is a pleasant restaurant on the propery.

We got a deluxe bungalow for the A/C. Floors are nice tile, modern bathroom and shower. It was very pleasant. But the accomodations in neither the Arenal area nor Monteverde are like all-inclusive beach resorts.

rmr

Tabacon is the most upscale place you'll find. My husband and I love it. Arenal Paraiso is nice, mid-range price wise, and good volcano view. Also take a look at Los Lagos (http://www.hotelloslagos.com/) there's a dirt road you can drive (or walk but it's a little hike) up and get and amazing view of the volcano, check it out at night! Also, the hotel has water slides, crocodile farm, etc. which your kids might enjoy.
But again, if you want upscale definitly go with Tabacon.

Otis_B_Driftwood

I'm not sure what you mean by "upscale" but we found the Volcano Inn to be just about perfect for our stay in Arenal. It has new, modern rooms with nice baths, a fine restaurant, nice pool and jacuzzi, and spacious, well maintained grounds. Oh, and the night view of the volcano was awesome. If the clouds go away, you will not be disappointed.

Otis_B_Driftwood

Sorry. I meant to say Volcano Lodge, not Inn.

http://www.arenal.net/hotel/volcano-lodge.htm