Spectacular Volcano And Lake Views, Modern Bali-style House
About this house rental
Situated in Alajuela Province, this charming house for $179 per night is a great choice for your next break. Come have breakfast with our resident TOUCAN ARCHIE!!! He loves guests and fruit!!! Please note Archie is a wild bird and does not visit every day. Casa Karon is a breathtaking new home, custom built to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings while still having every comfort. It enjoys views of the majestic volcano, the tranquil lake complete with wind turbines on the horizon, rolling pasture lands, and the lush rainforest. The house is modern Bali-style architecture. Construction finished in 2013. It is a gorgeous combination of steel and sharp angles with natural stone and wood. The whole house is furnished with custom-made furniture and cabinets made from the most beautiful local hardwoods. The ceilings are vaulted and 20 feet high. There are two bedrooms, one with a view of the lake and mountains (one queen size bunk bed), the other with a view of the volcano (one full size bed). The bathroom has an oversize slate shower and double vanity. The kitchen is fully-equipped with new appliances, and we provide the basics- salt and pepper, paper towels, soap, etc. The living room has an oversize double sliding glass door which opens wide to give the sensation that the deck and the living room are one in the same. Without a doubt, the best feature of the house is the exotic wood bench and bar that runs along the entire length of the covered deck. Guests can sit and dangle their feet in the air with a drink or meal, and take in the majestic views below. Also offered for your enjoyment are a hot tub (open from Monday through Saturday with 3 hours notice for heating), pool with slide and waterfall and an immense grill. If you just feel like staying in, we offer Netflix movies, high-speed Wi-Fi, a selection of DVD’s, and board games. When you venture out, we are a 15 minute drive to do some spelunking in the Venado Caves. La Fortuna is 45 minutes away where you can visit natural hot springs, go canopy jumping, horseback riding, four-wheeling, visit the snake and reptile zoo, indulge in a spa treatment and do some souvenir shopping. Other day trips will take you to magical waterfalls or the crystal-clear blue water of Rio Celeste. The entire area around Lake Arenal is a cyclist’s heaven, with excellent roads and trails to navigate. It is a perfect place to connect with nature. Our guests will enjoy the marvels of all the local wildlife right at their door-step. The call of the 'congos' swinging through the trees, gigantic toads, a myriad of brightly colored insects and butterflies, bromeliads growing all over the trees, exotic flowers. Bird watchers will be in heaven here in overlooking the treetops at the toucans, hawks, vultures, hummingbirds, parrots and more. The house is located in a spacious gated community 10 kilometers up the mountain on a country dirt road from the town of Nuevo Arenal. The road is in decent condition at most times (depending on rainfall). A rental car is a must, and 4x4 recommended. The development is secluded, yet still close to town and all the local amenities. Being higher in elevation, you will always enjoy a fresher, crisper, breezier climate than 'down the mountain'- between 5-10 degrees difference on average. Unlike many beach areas in Costa Rica where it is always the same weather-hot and humid- here you can experience a refreshing mix of sunshine and heat with rain, clouds, mist, and cooler weather. Our family lives on the property as well with our 2 large dogs. The two houses are separated completely, and we will never interfere, but are glad to be of any assistance if needed. The town of Nuevo Arenal has three grocery stores, a bank with an ATM, two pharmacies, gift shops, a gas station, and several bars and restaurants. There is also a "laundromat" in town where you can bring your soiled clothing to be washed, dried and folded (charged per kilo). The town is 20-30 minute drive from the house, depending on road conditions. Because of the distance to town, we always recommend that our guests do any shopping for provisions BEFORE heading up the mountain. We also HIGHLY recommend arriving before nightfall if possible, as the road to our house is dark and bumpy, and can be disconcerting to weary travelers. Pura vida!
Amenities
Pool
Kitchen / Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Smoking allowed
Parking
Laundry
Balcony / Patio
Hot Tub / Spa
TV
Wheelchair accessible
Gym / Fitness Center
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Alajuela Province
Reviews
5.0/5.0
Outstanding(82 Reviews)
10.0
My family and I really enjoyed our stay here. The description is dead on, so make sure to read all the details! There are 2 houses on the property, and the host lives in one. However, the house is very private and he is a wealth of information, so it’s a definite plus, especially if it’s your first trip to the area. (He did go on vacation shortly after we arrived, but we did get a lot of info when we got there and he was available by phone.)
The house itself is perfect, and the deck overlooking nature is spectacular. You can see the lake easily everyday and if it’s not too cloudy you can see the Arenal Volcano from the back window!
You will not be right in La Fortuna where the hub of tourism is, and that’s just what we wanted. We enjoyed driving on various (sometimes bumpy) routes to see the sights. It’s so incredibly beautiful, that no time is wasted. We spent 5 days at the house before we went off to the beach, which was not too long at all… there are endless things to see and do… and not do. Our kids spent hours and hours in the pool and had a blast! We enjoyed cooking and hanging out with the beauty of nature all around us and wanted to stay forever.
As long as you don’t mind driving a bit, you will love this property! Micheal is an excellent host and generous man. We genuinely enjoyed our time here and would come back for sure!
p.s. there is laundry on site as well!!
5.0
We should have stayed longer! This was a great house on a spacious property that we just didn’t budget enough time to enjoy. Our host, Michael, made it worse by suggesting even more great things to do than we had already planned! Don’t be afraid to take his shortcut recommendations (as long as you have 4WD!).
The property was remote, as advertised, and not at all difficult to reach. We came to it from a one-week stay in a busy beach town and although our kids (age 16-28) missed the nightlife a bit we “olds” loved being in a quieter location. I wish we had more time to explore the property or just sit and enjoy the view! Although we weren’t home long enough to see much wildlife here, we were very happy that Archie paid us a visit as we were packing up to leave.
The kitchen was more than adequate and we enjoyed cooking and eating in for a change. The only thing I wish the listing had made clear is that there are two units available. That means more beds and another bath if you have a larger group!
5.0
We stayed 5 days in this wonderful property. The house is beautifully built with breathtaking views and lush natural surroundings. It has everything you need for rest, relaxation and fun! We fully enjoyed the beautiful pool and hot tub. The deck was great for enjoying morning coffee while taking in the view and birdwatching. Michael made us feel at home right from the start. He generously provided recommendations and always ensured we had everything we needed. The place is indeed remote, but this is what makes it so special. I would recommend it to friends and family without hesitation. I would recommend reserving at least one or two days during your stay at Michael and Kelly's without any planned activities so that you can kick back and enjoy everything this wonderful property has to offer.
5.0
Loved it. Amazing views with privacy. Perfect setup for families especially if you have children, our children are 17 + and still loved it.
Michael has a lot of great recommendations. Definitely go for dinner at the Gingerbread House, it was amazing!
It was a bit of a drive to La Fortuna, where most of our activities were, but definitely worth it.
I don’t usually leave reviews, but with Michael’s overwhelming hospitality and beautiful property, I felt obliged to leave a few comments.
Thanks again for everything Michael.
Also would like to comment on how amazing the people of Costa Rica are. Super friendly and hospitable. Loved the trip.
5.0
Our first trip to Costa Rica and all we can say is WOW! We felt like we were in a mini-Disney oasis in the middle of the jungle. The landscaping, pool slide, hot tub, deck and lake/volcano views were amazing and the accommodations were excellent! Beautiful gated community and Michael the host was so knowledgeable and helpful when needed, but totally gave us our space to enjoy the vacation of a lifetime.
We flew into Liberia and rented a 4x4 SUV (a must for the unpaved "monkey" roads). Michael contacted us the night of our arrival and advised us to stay in town since it was raining and very foggy. However, we pressed on and using the WAZE app for navigation, were able to make it there in the dark (not for the faint of heart). There are several shortcuts if you like a good "Costa Rican Massage" to get up to the house and within a day or two we knew our way around and enjoyed the adventure of driving back home in the dark almost every night.
We highly recommend this property - it's beautiful and feels like your own mini-resort. Michael the host was the best! It was exactly what we were looking for as we were away from the congested tourist area of La Fortuna while still only about 45min scenic drive to all the fun activities. Also highly recommend the Gingerbread Restaurant! Pura Vida!
5.0
This is a great place if you want to be out of town, but still close enough to go in for a day trip, grab groceries or dinner. The views and property are beautiful. The hot tub is fantastic especially if you end up with some rainy days (as we did). Kids loved the pool, especially the slide. We did not find the roads to be too difficult to navigate with a basic 4wd rental. The host has a variety of short cuts depending where you are going.
5.0
The amazing views are worth the trip to this truly unique property! The host was very helpful, kind, and he shared a few excellent recommendations that made our first trip to Costa Rica incredible.
5.0
Wonderful property with jungle outlook. It’s a bit off the tourist track and a 15 minute journey on a gravel road to get there but that’s what we liked about it. Views from the balcony are gorgeous and a lovely place to sit and watch the birds.The bird life is amazing. Kids loved the pool and slide. The jacuzzi is wonderful! The beds and pillows were the most comfortable we’ve ever had. You don’t need air conditioning as it’s nice a cool and there are fans if you need. Michael (the host) is brilliant, helpful with tips and ideas - all of his suggested were brilliant- and accommodating. Hanging bridges, waterfall, free hot springs, and paid hot springs, hiking round volcano or just chilling at the property were all amazing. We had a truly incredible stay at this property. Would come back in a heartbeat! Highly recommend!
5.0
Property was gorgeous and peaceful, beautiful view, home, pool, gym, trails, wildlife. Michael was super accommodating and helpful but also gave us lots of privacy. As advertised the road to get there can be challenging and is 1 hour drive to La Fortuna.
5.0
This quiet out-of-the-way accommodation was wonderful! Michael, the host was very engaging and fun to talk with. He knew a lot about the area and gave us some short cut roads although bumpy did save a bunch of time. Just don’t drive them at night ha ha which we did. He gets foggy and dark and hard to see. The only regret is we didn’t stay around the property for a full day to see the birds, but we had already planned so many activities in the area.
5.0
The trip to Costa Rica was great, the house was wonderful, and the host Michael was amazing! Even before we met Michael we felt cared for. Michael gave us great advice on things to do and see. The day after we met Michael I stopped him on his way to work and talked about using his jacuzzi , Michael stopped everything and got to work setting the jacuzzi up and heated it up so everything would be ready when we got back from our day. A week after we had gone I realized I forgot to take a picture of something on his property and he sent it to me as soon as was possible. These are just some examples of what made us feel cared for rather than just paying guests! The landscape and birds on the property were beautiful. Overall it was an amazing experience, “Pura Vida”!
5.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this beautiful property. The view is amazing and we loved sitting out on the long deck each day looking at the lake and watching all of the birds. Michael was a great host and always available when needed. The location is a bit remote, but that made it a very peaceful experience. The gravel roads can be rough, especially after it rains, so a 4 wheel drive is recommended. Overall, we highly recommend this lovely villa!
5.0
We had a wonderful stay at Michael's house. It was beautiful and He was a fabulous host always helping us with directions and places to go. Tons of birds to watch and my daughter loved the pool. I really enjoyed a night in the hot tub watching bats flying around!
5.0
Great views. Very friendly host.
5.0
This property is just spectacular! The views of the lake and surrounding area are stunning. The trees just outside the balcony are full of birds, and their symphony, along with those of the howler monkeys, greet you in the morning.
The house itself if beautifully decorated and well stocked with kitchen items. There were plenty of towels, which was a treat!
Michael was a joy to meet and work with. He was very helpful with suggestions for dining and activities in the area. Prior to our stay, he was very helpful with maps and tips on how to get to the property.
This property is off the beaten track, which may be a detractor for some. It wasn't a problem for us, and we really enjoyed zipping up and down the mountain to reach it. In fact, we worked every time to shave minutes off the trip and actually got it down to 17 minutes from 25 minutes, one way!
If another trip to Costa Rica is in my future, I would definitely return to Casa Karon!
5.0
From check in to check out the host was most accommodating! We would absolutely book this tropical oasis again! Kids loved the property. The pool is beautiful and we did a night hike on the beautifully maintained private trails. A++
5.0
The best asset of the property was the unique location. The lake, volcano, and jungle views are amazing. The property was clean and modern. Everything we needed was present at the location. Michael was an amazing host. He was the perfect mix of attentive when needed and hands off when not. He gave great advice about staying in the Arenal area. Michael answered every email promptly. The pool and hot tub were really fun for the kids. They swam from sun up to sunrise on the days we weren’t enjoying other activities. The hot tub is wood fired which makes it a truly unique experience.
5.0
The rental is beautiful with spectacular sunsets over Lake Arenal and the rain/cloud forest. Many birds and even spotted two toucans. Each morning we woke to howling monkeys and birds. Magical. Thank you Michael for sharing this beautiful home.
5.0
We had an incredible stay at Michael’s beautiful home. He recommends getting in before dark but we had some travel delays that had us arrive at night. Michael’s directions were very clear and we found the house relatively easily. Definitely recommend a 4x4 vehicle but our 2WD sedan didn’t have any issues. Our kids never wanted to leave the pool and slide and the hot tub had an incredible view overlooking lake Arenal. The house was very spacious, clean and comfortable. Their yard also had a huge variety of blooming flowers and unique plants. We highly recommend staying here and would love to return someday!
5.0
We weren't sure what to expect in Nuevo Arenal when we booked and we couldn't have been more pleasantly surprised. Getting to the house was an adventure, which was perfect for us. The town was lovely and the property couldn't have been more beautiful. The house was really fantastic, and it was built by the owner, Micheal, who was an incredibly gracious and kind host. I really can't say enough kind things about him. He really made us feel incredibly welcome. If you have a chance to stay here, I highly recommend it.
5.0
My family's time at Casa Karon was a top highlight of our vacation in Costa Rica. If a spectacular location and an extremely accommodating host is what you're looking for, then look no further. We were treated like family the moment we arrived to this gorgeous compound hidden in the hills above Nuevo Arenal. This is a rental and host experience many try to replicate but few master. Well done Michael! We will absolutely be back for a visit!
5.0
Michael's property is beautiful and comfortable. We enjoyed walking the garden paths and using the wonderful hot tub with a view. Michael was a great host.
5.0
Will absolutely go back, couldn’t ask for a better host and a wonderful property, We LOVED IT!!
5.0
Michael was tremendous help on our trip giving us stuff to do in the area! His place is spectacular and can definitely see myself going there again. We appreciate the help and the warm welcoming! Til next time!
5.0
We had a great time! A good vista to wake up to, a calming drive to Arenal, and an experienced host with recommendations. This was a great stay. We really enjoyed the pool which had a slide.
5.0
Our family had a great stay here. The view from the deck was amazing. Our kids loved the pool and water slide. Michael was a fabulous host.
5.0
This property has everything you need for a peaceful wonderful stay in a beautiful country. Michael's property is paradise and while he is accessible for help, you never feel crowded or infringed upon. You'll feel safe and calm and healthy and in control of as much or as little activity as your heart desires. The town is about twenty minutes from the house so make sure you have all you need for at least one or two meals. We loved the pool, the views of the volcano, and the complete experience. Great sheets, hot water, and beds. We're looking forward to our next visit. Thanks Michael, and pura vida!
5.0
Awesome Beyond Expectations
Just a great time, great place, paradise encapsulated. And Michael was a great, helpful and personable host. Thank you!
5.0
Can't say enough about the hospitality everything was awesome can't wait to return
5.0
Awesome hospitality
Can't say enough about the hospitality everything was awesome can't wait to return
5.0
Great place and great service
This place is a fantastic place to stay for a number of reasons. First, the location is beautiful, in good condition, and in a private location. Second, the facilities are great - the pool and hot tub are an ideal combination for the variable weather, and covered decks provide an immersive view of lake arenal and the surrounding lush vegetation. Third, the location has everything you need to stay, including a washer and dryer and what you need to cook reasonable meals. Fourth, access to a reasonable grocery store, carneceria, and great restaurants in Nuevo Arenal is within 10-15min. Fifth, the hosts are extremely accommodating yet respect your privacy entirely, so you choose your level of interaction. Their house is physically separated from the rental, so you have plenty of privacy. However, the owners are full of information and are great people. Finally, the location is less than an hour drive to La Fortuna, so you can stay at the place cooking and enjoying the pool and hot tub one day, while doing a full day adventure tour out of La Fortuna the next day.
You will need a 4wd vehicle, and you will need to pay attention to the full directions provided by the host to get there, as they are landmark based and not address/street name based. This is how directions are everywhere in Costa Rica, so it's not unique to this property.
5.0
Michael’s home is just spectacular! The panoramic views of Lake Arenal are stunning. The kitchen had anything you could need for cooking and probably had more spices than I have at home! The beds were super comfortable. The pool and hot tub (heated with wood!) was a great place to relax and have a few cocktails. We spent most of our time on the large covered porch overlooking the rainforest and were visited by two toucans each morning! We wish we had booked more days there! We will definitely book again next time we are in Arenal.
5.0
Spectacular property
Michael’s home is just spectacular! The panoramic views of Lake Arenal are stunning. The kitchen had anything you could need for cooking and probably had more spices than I have at home! The beds were super comfortable. The pool and hot tub (heated with wood!) was a great place to relax and have a few cocktails. We spent most of our time on the large covered porch overlooking the rainforest and were visited by two toucans each morning! We wish we had booked more days there! We will definitely book again next time we are in Arenal.
5.0
Owners were excellent to deal with
5.0
Very nice place
Owners were excellent to deal with
5.0
The house is beautiful, remotely located with spectacular views of the Lake Arenal and beautiful sunsets. We were able to see Arenal Volcano from the kitchen window. The nearby town (Nuevo Arenal) has everything you need and is a short drive from the house, a 4x4 SUV/truck is required. The heated spa is a plus after a long day of hiking. Fortuna is less than an hour away, it is a scenic drive.
The host (Michael) is very hospitable and made sure we had everything we needed.
I highly recommend this property, we can’t wait to be back!
5.0
Paradise!
The house is beautiful, remotely located with spectacular views of the Lake Arenal and beautiful sunsets. We were able to see Arenal Volcano from the kitchen window. The nearby town (Nuevo Arenal) has everything you need and is a short drive from the house, a 4x4 SUV/truck is required. The heated spa is a plus after a long day of hiking. Fortuna is less than an hour away, it is a scenic drive.
The host (Michael) is very hospitable and made sure we had everything we needed.
I highly recommend this property, we can’t wait to be back!
5.0
Peaceful retreat
We had a wonderful time at casa karon. It's beautiful and quiet up in the hills. It feels very remote and yet we were close to all the things we wanted to do in and around venado. We are grateful to our hosts for their hospitality and only wish we had more time there.
5.0
This place was simply spectacular. It is isolated in a way that makes it feel uniquely your own - you escape up a long and thrilling road (make sure you have 4x4) to a retreat in the jungle. The property itself has an Indiana Jones meets Jurassic Park feel to it, with a Flintstone-style water side and smoke hut, and tiki statues with resident snakes perched atop. We were unlucky with wildlife sightings, but that was remedied with a few nature tours in fortuna. The host, Michael, was an absolute prince and was helpful, patient, funny, and kind with the kids. He let us feel like the whole property was our home but was also available when we needed him. Only recommendation would be a few better large pans. We wish we could come back!
5.0
Could not have been better
This place was simply spectacular. It is isolated in a way that makes it feel uniquely your own - you escape up a long and thrilling road (make sure you have 4x4) to a retreat in the jungle. The property itself has an Indiana Jones meets Jurassic Park feel to it, with a Flintstone-style water side and smoke hut, and tiki statues with resident snakes perched atop. We were unlucky with wildlife sightings, but that was remedied with a few nature tours in fortuna. The host, Michael, was an absolute prince and was helpful, patient, funny, and kind with the kids. He let us feel like the whole property was our home but was also available when we needed him. Only recommendation would be a few better large pans. We wish we could come back!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Alajuela Province?
The average price for a rental in Alajuela Province is $81 per night. This rental is $98 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Spectacular Volcano And Lake Views, Modern Bali-style House. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Spectacular Volcano And Lake Views, Modern Bali-style House. Enjoy the water!
Is Spectacular Volcano And Lake Views, Modern Bali-style House pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Spectacular Volcano And Lake Views, Modern Bali-style House?
We found 13 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, kitchen / kitchenette, internet / wifi, smoking allowed, and parking.
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