29 Best Hotels in Arenal, Monteverde, and the Northern Lowlands, Costa Rica

Inspired by the owners' years in Austria, two spacious chalets built into a hillside command expansive views of the Gulf of Nicoya and the hilly peninsula, and contain elegant, airy, and downright regal rooms—all with balconies, minibars, polished woods, and plush white duvets. Decor is clean and tailored, and service is impeccable, lending a sense of old-world charm reminiscent of a mountaineer's version of the Ritz. Rooms in the Main Building, where you'll find the lobby and restaurant, are on the small side but are more affordable; those in the Chalet Building are larger and have outdoor showers or Jacuzzi tubs. Splurge on one of the spacious suites with panoramic sunset views, spa-like bathrooms, and expansive private terraces featuring soaking tubs and swinging daybeds.  On the ground floor of the Chalet Building you'll find a boutique, juice bar, and yoga studio. Food served in their restaurant Celajes is prepared with ingredients from the greenhouse. A trail from the main building leads to a microbrewery, Jacuzzi, and natural spring for swimming on warmer days. For a fee, you can opt for such pampering perks as picnic lunches, spa treatments, breakfast in bed, and private in-room dinners.

Perched canyonside with views of the forest and the volcano beyond, these spacious, modern cabins of stone and wood below soaring ceilings and massive windows are cozy, private, and comfortable. Your villa includes free minibars featuring local beer and kombucha, a private deck with a plunge pool, indoor/outdoor showers, a huge high-end gym, complimentary yoga classes, a swim-up bar for socializing, and unparalleled service. The breakfast with a personal French press of coffee is mostly grown on-site and will fill you up until dinner.

These cozy, comfortable, and simple rooms allow you to sleep as close as anyone should to a volcano—it's the only hotel inside Arenal Volcano National Park and less than two miles away. Stellar views and outdoor activities are what the place is all about. The facility was founded by Smithsonian researchers and is fairly rustic, though after a hike on the 11 km (7 miles) of well-maintained trails, you can take a dip in the infinity pool and Jacuzzi, which face tall pines on one side and the volcano on the other. With more than 400 species of birds and 870 acres of private rainforest, this property is a dream for bird-watchers and those who seek peace and quiet. Other activities include complimentary guided hikes to the waterfall, horseback riding, or relaxing at the spa. Five of the rooms are wheelchair-accessible, as are a couple of miles of the property's trails. The dining room, which serves tasty and hearty food, has great views of the volcano and lake. A separate building contains a few spartan budget rooms.

Nestled among 13½ acres of rolling hills nearly 3 km (2 miles) from town, luxury tree houses have wraparound decks, driftwood headboards, tree-stump nightstands, waterfall showers, and skylight ceilings, ultimately fading the line between nature and decor. Each unit is unique in design, but all are built of wood, stone, and glass and have minibars, lounge areas, and private entrances. The spacious two-bedroom Rivendell tree house looks more like a two-story chalet cupped in the branches. Eden has an indoor Jacuzzi, and Neverland—built over a koi pond—has floor-to-ceiling windows with views over the hills to the Gulf of Nicoya. Breakfast and tea are served in a lovely solarium in the main house, which also has two standard guest rooms. The rules here are simple: no shoes in the house, no working during your stay, and dessert is served before dinner promptly at 5 (the coconut flan is to die for). The property's views are among Monteverde’s best, and there are plenty of quiet spots for reflection and a network of hiking trails.

Tucked into the mountainside, the main lodge with the restaurant and bar has a decidedly sophisticated feel, with spectacular views of the Pacific in the distance. Two-story suites are spacious, simple, and beautifully appointed. In addition to the main lodge, there are stand-alone bungalows, including a family suite with three bedrooms and two baths. The attentive staff is like that of a much pricier place, doting on you, knowing your likes, and helping with every last detail. Don't miss sunset happy hour with expertly crafted cocktails, or the restaurant with meals well suited to the epicure. Entrance to the Agouti Reserve with a 4 km (2½ miles) nature hike is included with your stay.

Scattered over expansive grounds are freestanding casitas, villas, and "tents," all tastefully decorated with dark-wood furnishings and equipped with luxurious touches like indoor-outdoor showers, four-post canopy beds, plasma TVs, and whirlpool tubs. Rooms fall into three categories (suites, casitas, and villas) but are similar in design with an eclectic mix of imported decor ranging from Italian crystal chandeliers to Balinese hand-carved furniture. The wood-plank floors and ceilings made from sugarcane reeds add a natural touch. The adults-only villas are at Naraya Springs, an exclusive section of the resort connected by way of a 230-foot jungle bridge. Double the rate of the casitas, villas have private plunge pools and complimentary extras like minibars, Wi-Fi, laundry service, and yoga. Although lacking volcano views, villas are extremely private and have their own reception area, spa, and pool. Only half of the casitas and suites have volcano views. The highest-end is the tented camp, large luxury "tents" have soaring ceilings, soaking tubs, breathtaking vistas of the volcano from the suites and private plunge pools, walk-in closets, your choice of breakfast served on the patio, and every amenity (daily laundry service is included). There are cascading termales, thermal pools heated by the natural springs, and the spa has open treatment rooms so you can hear the wildlife and rain during your massage. The resort's five restaurants offer tapas, international, Asian, Mediterranean cuisine, and even a wine bar, so you never have to leave the comforts of the grounds. Special packages are available for those who want meals included in the rate.

There's much to recommend at this hillside property, including the large picture windows and balconies overlooking Lake Arenal and the attentive service from the owners. Standard rooms have white tile floors and paintings by local artists. Higher up the hill, spacious bungalows with kitchens afford an even better view and are farther away from the road. With over 30 varieties of palm trees, this is a great place for bird-watching, and an on-site nature guide helps you delve into what you'll see here. A huge breakfast with homemade tortillas and breads is included.

This rain-forest B&B has old-fashioned charm with three chalet-style bedrooms looking out onto the mystic lake and volcano. The owners (and their resident Great Danes) have converted their hillside home into this lovely lodging that attracts seasoned travelers and nature enthusiasts. The cozy rooms have sloping ceilings, hand-carved furnishings, and tropical hardwoods. The two rosewood rooms downstairs have tile floors. Up a spiral staircase lies the L-shape, all-wood double loft with three beds and a back porch that overlooks the large garden. Running through the manicured grounds is a river and a network of hiking trails for exploring; rubber boots are provided. Birds abound: 100 species have been cataloged on the grounds. A favorite pastime is sitting in a rocking chair and watching the hummingbirds feed. The breakfasts are divine, with fresh-squeezed juice and macadamia-nut pancakes. The entire property is no-smoking.

Reminiscent of a ski lodge, this longtime favorite has extremely comfortable and stylish rooms with vaulted ceilings and great views. The bar is positioned around a huge but cozy lobby fireplace, and the outdoor heated pool is a perfect place to unwind after a day of tromping through the reserves. The exceptional El Jardín Restaurant, with its menu of Garden, Ocean, and Land options, uses locally grown vegetables and dairy from the Monteverde milk factory. Rooms are situated along a long corridor, which tends to carry hallway noise; Nos. 201 and 207 have the most privacy. Guests are advised to keep their balcony doors closed, because monkeys have been known to ransack suites.

This is one of the closest properties to the volcano, with rooms boasting hydromassage Jacuzzis, sitting areas, jaw-dropping views, Juliet balconies, and nearly 700 square feet of space. High ceilings, almost too much space, and queen beds that face walls of glass are what set this property apart from competitors; but at night when the curtains are drawn, rooms can be rather dark and stuffy (electricity operates by key card). The beautifully manicured grounds make up for this minor pitfall, with streams, gardens, and thermal springs that cascade from the swimming pool down to the spa. Guests receive complimentary admission to the Titokú Hot Springs, located 6 km (4 miles) south of the hotel and 5 km (3 miles) north of La Fortuna.

This funky little mountain ecolodge has fabulous views of the neighboring Tenorio and Miravalles volcanoes and is a great base for viewing nearby Rio Celeste. The open-air lobby is overflowing with plants and looks more like a greenhouse, the extensive gardens and 2 km (1¼ mile) private hike are perfect for wildlife viewing, and the rooms themselves are minimalist but bright, clean, and comfortable. Breakfast comes with the room but we recommend the pre-fixe dinner as well—inventive cuisine for just $25 a person. 

If you fancy toucan-spotting from your room or the deck of your bungalow, Chachagua will be right up your alley. Each room has a pair of double beds, an outdoor table, and nice showers enclosed in large, reflective windows where birds gather to watch their reflections while you bathe. Only deluxe bungalows have TV and plunge pools, but if you fancy a dip, there's a series of natural spring-fed pools leading to one of the two outdoor restaurants and bar. For complete isolation, request a room facing the rainforest. An open-air restaurant serves an organic menu. The lodge is 3 km (2 miles) up a rough track—4WD is a must in rainy season—on the road headed south from La Fortuna to La Tigra. Do not attempt arriving after dark or during heavy rains since the river crossing becomes impassable and roads are poorly marked.

A charming family tends to guests at this peaceful, bohemian Shangri-La just 10 minutes down the mountain from—and a noticeable few degrees warmer than—Santa Elena. Two fully furnished ojoche-wood cabins with kitchens, skylights, and patios with hammocks are perched on the mountainside of this nearly 30-acre farm. The smaller cabin sleeps two, while the three-story larger cabin sleeps four. Every vantage point in the cabins—the living area, the bed, the desk, the shower, and even the toilet—has stupendous views. The property has horseback riding, a stone-wall pool, and a Finnish sauna. Optional meals are prepared by a neighboring Costa Rican family and can be taken in the main house or brought to your cabin. Although cabins are affordable, be sure to factor in $10 taxi rides to Santa Elena and $15 entrées if you're dining in. If arriving by car, there are no signs for the hotel so look for the yellow painted rocks and sun logo.

Set in the rainforest, these marvelous, secluded casitas have elegant furnishings, sizable bathrooms with private garden showers, and terraces that entice you to spend time in nature. There are hot tubs and a massive pool, a gracious dining area and bar, and beautiful grounds with lots of ponds where you may discover exotic rainforest frogs (and possibly the snakes who feed on them).

Under the shade of tropical fruit trees, white bungalows of high-quality wood each contain two bright, sparkling rooms with terra-cotta tile floors and front patios that open onto a central swimming pool. Rooms have either a king or two double beds, a private bath with hot water, ceiling fans, air-conditioning, and lagoon views. All are welcome here, though this lodge is best known for bird-watching and fishing tours, equipment, boat rental, and the nearby lake filled with tarpon and bass. The restaurant is organic-focused with a menu heavy on Costa Rican fare; sweet pineapples, juicy mangoes, tart mamones, and other produce from the lodge's orchard end up on your breakfast plate. Due to the long trek to get here—not to mention all the intriguing wildlife—it's recommended guests stay at least two nights.

From the villas to the farm to the on-site hot springs, kids and adults alike are enthralled by this peaceful property. The lush and lovely well-kept grounds have volcano views and include an agua fria (cold water) pool for splashing around as well as multiple tranquil hot springs to relax. There is a spa, bar, and restaurant. The farm-fresh eggs (you can collect them yourself) make for a hearty and delicious breakfast.

Nicely decorated cottages are scattered around 25 acres on Arenal's northeast shore at the point where the volcano begins to disappear from sight, but the lake views (and the sunsets) remain as spectacular as ever. Split-level cottages are extremely cozy, with sunken living rooms and dining areas separated from two bedrooms on the top level. Bathrooms feature fine details such as Italian tiles and ceilings made from almond wood. Every cottage has two rooms, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a safe, and king-size beds. A three-bedroom villa is available for extended stays. An infinity pool and enormous Jacuzzi overlook emerald valleys where sheep and cows graze by day. The on-site bistro specializes in European cuisine. As befits such a secluded place, bird-watching opportunities abound.

This 18-acre private reserve contains 16 cozy cabins with fully equipped kitchens in which you can prepare meals with produce from the hotel’s hydroponic vegetable garden. Accommodating from two to six people, cabins vary in size and amenities—best are the superior cabins with fireplaces, wraparound patios, satellite TVs, outdoor grills, and stained-glass windows. Family cabins have three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and living rooms. This eco-friendly property operates on solar power and has a water-treatment system, a recycling center, and a workshop where fallen trees are repurposed for furniture and building materials. The playground and hiking trails frequented by monkeys make this a popular spot for families.

Despite the relative isolation, travelers flock to this rainforest resort largely because each hillside room has a huge picture window and a door opening to an individual balcony with volcano views. Although there is a steep climb to many rooms, they are decorated with locally made art and bamboo-frame beds, and suites have vaulted ceilings, garden showers, and private whirlpools. A few cottages are tucked away on the grounds and make ideal getaways for families, while the spa and two heated pools ensure a relaxing stay. The location, a short drive above Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges, makes this a good bet if you have your own vehicle, but otherwise factor in a $35 taxi ride to La Fortuna and most area attractions.

It might come as a surprise to find such attractive and comfortable rooms, with nice appointments and high ceilings, in so remote a place, but the lack of pretense and laid-back atmosphere fit right into the surroundings on the east side of the reserve. The lodge has a variety of meal options; most guests opt for taking all meals here, since there are few other restaurants in town. Two- and three-day packages are available for anglers and nonanglers alike. Bird-watching and boat tours of the wetlands are the most popular activities. If you want to catch a glimpse of monkeys, request a far-end room facing the forest. A snazzy pool makes the perfect escape from the heat here.

This hotel has a volcano view along with luxury perks like a swim-up bar, five-star cuisine, a swanky lobby, and an impressive spa. Spacious, nicely decorated accommodations come with friendly service, a sense of intimacy, and another big bonus—on-site hot springs. Soothing cream-color walls, white polished floors, and wood furnishings prevail in the decor, with colorful accents scattered about in the form of pillows and wall hangings. Suites have stone accents and private hot tubs. Every room has a balcony with views of the pool and volcano. Three bars and a restaurant with international cuisine round out the offerings here. There's a sundeck on the second floor and plenty of lounge chairs near the three thermal pools.

In downtown La Fortuna, this inn has clean, bright rooms linked by a long veranda lined with benches and potted plants, and added perks like a large pool and in-room Wi-Fi. The poolside breakfast is the perfect way to fuel up before a hike, and there is even a second pool just for the little ones. The secure parking, TVs, air-conditioning, and prime location make this a great budget option. Unobstructed views of the volcano can be had from the second-floor patio.

Situated on 3 acres with private nature trails, these completely updated casita duplexes with large windows, separate bedrooms, porches, and luxe linens are lovely, but it's the top-notch service that sets Senda apart. The parklike setting is made even better by views of the Gulf of Nicoya at the top of the property. Check out their complimentary cooking and yoga classes. The property is wheelchair accessible.

With its own adventure park, hot-springs complex, and activities for all ages, this resort caters to both hotel guests and the outside public with day passes to its massive grounds. Near-perfect volcano views from individual balconies, a 14,000-square-foot spa, and rustically elegant rooms all contribute to a sense of well-being at this luxurious and remote retreat. The sky is the limit in furnishings (and price) as you work your way up to the suites and villas—additional rooms, arched sky-lighted ceilings, and hot tubs are among the amenities. Even the standard rooms have surround-sound speaker systems and huge balconies facing the volcano. Below the property is Club Río, an outdoor adventure park with kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing, rappelling, hiking, and a wildlife preserve for rescued animals. Visitors are transported up and down the hill by shuttle bus, and many of the hot-spring pools are surrounded by the kind of artificial rocks and boulders you see in amusement parks.

At one of Central America's most relaxing and romantic resorts, it's the hot springs and lovely spa, coupled with attractive rooms, that customarily draw happy guests inland from the ocean. Most rooms have a terrace, all with either volcano or garden views. Luxurious touches include nightly turndown service, bathrobes, a minibar, a movie library, and free access to the hotel's hot springs (day passes for nonguests cost $89). Updated rooms provide respite after a day's adventuring. As the most romantic and beautifully designed hot-spring facility in the area, the 20 pools tend to get crowded with outside visitors. For a break from the public, hotel guests have access to the Shangri-La Gardens, an exclusive adults-only hideaway. The hot springs and spa are actually 300 meters east of the hotel; you can either walk from your room or take the complimentary shuttle.

Whether whiling away the mornings on the porch amid the toucans, trekking to the river, or spotting nocturnal creatures on night hikes, nature lovers will be enthralled with the stilted cabins of this 10-acre property in the trees. With nice beds and air-conditioning, the basic cabanas, elevated on stilts, are level with the forest canopy, where you get a bird's eye view of the, well, birds, and Costa Rica's other plentiful flora and fauna. The property is quite a drive from the sights, but they're a relative bargain and friendly staff are a nice bonus. There's a minimum two-night stay.

The basic rooms here have stunning views of the Gulf of Nicoya as well as hardwood floors, firm beds, and powerful, hot showers. Rooms are spartan but cozy, and there's a two-bedroom cabin with a full kitchen that sleeps five. The inn is quite far from the Monteverde Reserve entrance, but is within Valle Escondido, a 28-acre private preserve to which guests have full access. A taxi into town costs about $5 one way. There is direct access to 5 km (3 miles) of trails from the hotel in its own reserve, where night tours are offered at 5:30. For wildlife, isolation, and great rates, this property is a good bet.