Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Nuevo Arenal is 27km west of the dam, or an hour's drive from La Fortuna. In case you
were wondering what happened to old Arenal, it's about 27m below the surface of Laguna
de Arenal. In order to create a large enough reservoir for the dam, the Costa Rican govern-
ment had to make certain, er, sacrifices, which ultimately resulted in the forced relocation
of 3500 people. Today, the humble residents of Nuevo Arenal don't seem to be fazed by
history, especially since they now own premium lakeside property.
Just before you reach Nuevo Arenal (coming from La Fortuna) you'll pass a marina,
2694-4336;
www.arenalkayaks.com
; 2hr
tour US$30)
for a guided paddle on the lake.
Sleeping & Eating
Aurora Hotel
HOTEL
( 2694-4245; r US$24; )
You'd never know it from the street, but these rooms are rather sweet, spotless, spacious,
wood-cabin-like constructions with lovely lake views and vaulted beamed ceilings.
Located on the east side of the square, it's one of the only budget options on Laguna de
Arenal. The attached restaurant does decent pizza.
Tinajas Arenal
CAFE
With glorious sunsets and a dock for boat access, this new lakeside retreat is a hidden gem.
The chef - who honed his skills at La Mansion Inn Arenal nearby - has created a menu of
traditional favorites and new surprises, using fresh seafood and organic ingredients grown
right here. Sample the refreshing cocktail
a la casa,
limon hierba (lemonade with mint).
At the southern end of Nuevo Arenal, turn off the main road and follow the signs about
2km to Tinajas Arenal.
Moya's Place
CAFE, PIZZERIA
( 2694-4001; mains US$6-12; 11am-10pm)
Murals, masks and other indigenous-inspired art adorn the walls at this friendly cafe. Take
your pick from the delicious sandwiches, well-stuffed wraps and burritos, and tasty thin-