Miradas Arenal Hotel and Hot Springs is a 3-star hotel located in La Fortuna, in the Alajuela region, north of Costa Rica. The property features 13 private bungalows set throughout a tropical garden planted with fruit trees, facing Arenal volcano.

Why stay here

The hotel occupies a former family estate once dedicated to dairy cattle farming. This heritage explains the modest scale of the property: just thirteen bungalows, each positioned to offer panoramic views of Arenal volcano's cone. The presence of three outdoor pools naturally heated by the region's thermal springs sets Miradas Arenal apart from comparable 3-star hotels: guests enjoy thermal waters without leaving the property, a significant advantage in an area where access to nearby springs often comes with entry fees.

Atmosphere

The ambiance is that of a family lodge rather than a resort. Bungalows are scattered throughout a garden where fruit trees flourish, and a lounge bar positioned poolside serves as a gathering point in the evening. The intimate scale (13 units) ensures a peaceful atmosphere, perfectly suited to couples and small families who wish to alternate days exploring the national park with afternoons relaxing on-site.

The bungalows

Each of the 13 bungalows features a private balcony overlooking either the garden or the volcano. Furnishings remain functional, reflecting Costa Rican 3-star standards: quality bedding, air conditioning, television, safe, minibar, coffee maker, and Wi-Fi. Private bathrooms include a shower-tub combination and hair dryer. The property also offers laundry service and an excursion desk to arrange outings.

Dining and wellness

American breakfast is included in the room rate and served at the hotel restaurant. The poolside lounge bar is perfect for evening drinks with a view of the volcano. For dinner, Amor Loco restaurant, specializing in South American cuisine, is located about a fifteen-minute walk from the hotel; several other dining options are within reach in La Fortuna's town center.

For wellness, a dedicated center offers back massages and full-body treatments. The three thermal pools, however, remain the main draw—accessible at any hour to guests.

Activities offered

The hotel's excursion desk arranges several activities typical of the Arenal region:

• Cycling tours through the surrounding countryside
• Horseback riding excursions
• Guided visits to coffee and cacao plantations
• Kayaking on Lake Arenal, the country's largest artificial lake
• Exploration of nearby nature reserves

Location and surroundings

The hotel sits just minutes by car from La Fortuna's town center and very close to Arenal Natura Ecological Park. The region's main attractions remain within less than half an hour's drive:

• Arenal Volcano National Park
• Tabacon thermal springs
• Kalambu Hot Springs water park
• Mistico Arenal hanging bridges park
• Arenal Ecoglide park (canopy tours)

From San José, allow approximately three hours of driving to reach the hotel. On-site, car rental is the most convenient option for combining visits; alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services connect you to La Fortuna town.

Extending your Costa Rica journey

The Arenal region fits naturally into a broader itinerary combining volcanoes, cloud forests, and coastline. For a cloud forest stay, the Trogon Lodge in the Savegre valley makes an excellent complementary stop. On the Pacific side, Hotel La Vela Boutique in Tamarindo and Pirate Cove Hotel on the Osa Peninsula offer two distinct beach experiences. Near the airport, Xandari Resort provides a smooth transition upon arrival or departure.

To build your complete itinerary, consult our Costa Rica travel guide and its bespoke itinerary suggestions.