Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
2479-1600;
www.arenalnayara.com
;
r/ste incl breakfast US$280/390;
)
This intimate and indulgent hotel, 6km west of town, has amassed a slew of awards for its
Asian-inspired architecture, minimalist decor and richly romantic setting. The 24 rooms
have exquisite furnishings and bedding, rich woods, high-tech gadgetry, an outdoor
shower and a private outdoor Jacuzzi where you can soak up views of Volcán Arenal.
Exquisite.
South of Town
Just a few kilometers south of town, a partially paved road trundles to the base of Cerro
Chato, and hotels now dot either side of it. Even further flung is the village of Chachagua,
12km south along the road to San Ramón. Crisscrossed by local rivers, this authentic,
agrarian, market
pueblo
(small town or village) is an antidote to the touristy brouhaha of
La Fortuna.
Villas Josipek
CABINA
2430-5252;
www.costaricavillasjosipek.com
; per person incl breakfast
US$34; )
Just north of the village of Chachagua, these immaculate, simple, wooden cabins with full
kitchens and volcano views are surrounded by private rainforest trails that penetrate the
Bosque Eterno de Los Niños. Your hosts, Suhey and Edgar, are delightful, as is the sly
sloth that inhabits the guarumo tree near the lobby.
On the grounds, you can take an 1100m stroll through the
Jardín Botánico Josipek
(admission US$10)
, which includes rose gardens, rainforest and medicinal plants, as well as
a contemplative labyrinth.
Hotel Cerro Azul
BUNGALOW
2479-9212;
www.ranchocerroazul.com
; d/tr/q US$72/86/100;
)
Five cute, shingled cabins face the parking lot but back up to the forest, with private
porches overlooking the trees. A 200m trail leads to the rushing river, with the volcano
beyond. The cabins have woody interiors and stylish details. Think simple, natural, beauti-
ful, comfortable.
