Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The ceiba tree is actually on the grounds of the
Tropical Garden
(admission US$4)
next
door. The entrance fee gives you access to a blooming orchid garden and several kilomet-
ers of trails.
Hotel Los Héroes
HOTEL
without balcony US$65/55, tr/apt US$80/115; )
Los Héroes looks like a Swiss village, centered on a charming chapel complete with
chimes. The alpine chalet, 13.5km west of the dam, has large, immaculate but rather in-
nocuous rooms. There's a working dairy on the grounds. A
narrow-gauge train
(per per-
son US$10; 11:30am & 1pm)
chugs up the hill, bringing guests to the revolving Rondorama
Panoramic Restaurant (unique in Costa Rica!).
Villa Decary
B&B
cl breakfast US$112/160; )
This country inn is an all-round winner, offering epic views and unparalleled hospitality.
Elegant, spacious rooms are decorated with bright serape bedspreads and original artwork,
and boasts balconies with excellent views of the woodland below and the lake beyond.
There are larger
casitas
(sleeping four) with kitchenettes. The trails behind the house offer
excellent opportunities for birding.
Villa Decary also boasts one of the best collections of palm trees in Costa Rica, which
explains why it's named for the French botanist who discovered a new species of palm. It's
24.5km west of the dam, and 2km east of Nuevo Arenal.
La Mansion Inn Arenal
INN
2692-8018;
www.lamansionarenal.com
;
incl breakfast d US$125-175, ste
US$175-195)
About 15.5km west of the dam, La Mansion enjoys amazing lake views from the cottages,
pool and restaurant. The large split-level rooms feature king-size beds, private terraces and
mural-painted walls. The fabulous infinity lap pool is surrounded by a relaxing patio and
an ornamental garden featuring Chorotega pottery. Lovely all around.
