Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.
About this chalet rental
Nestled in Alajuela Province, this lovely chalet for $220 per night is a great option for your next break. Our 'Castle in The Clouds' is just seven km from Volcano Arenal, perched 700m above sea-level overlooking the volcano, rainforest, pastures and Lake Arenal and close to many of the most popular amenities the region has to offer . Wake to the sound of howler monkeys, toucans and parrots and enjoy your first cup of locally-grown coffee in our covered gazebo or in the 25 sq. metre sunroom. Our home features a splash pool to cool off after a busy day of eco-adventuring. You can walk to many attractions in the village, including several quaint local restaurants. The home features casual dining indoor or out, hot water throughout, and stunning views from every room. It is completely equipped with a full-sized fridge with ice-maker, gas stove, microwave and blender and includes twice-weekly cleaning service (more often optional on request). An optional personal laundry service is also available. Active or passive, this is the perfect home base for your Arenal vacation! Although our small stretch of the road is usually in good shape it is steep and the road coming into El Castillo is very rough. We highly recommend a 4x4 vehicle for all your excursions in Costa Rica. We now feature a paved driveway, a separate covered Gazebo (perfect for al fresco dining) and the yard has been completely enclosed with a custom-made 5' stone and wrought-iron fence. You'll enjoy our garden paradise yard featuring a variety of local and tropical plants designed to maximize your Costa Rica experience. Now-Book Local Tours and Attractions: Hannah and Tomas, our on-site hosts can help you book many local tours and attractions for you on your arrival, saving you the hassle of running around. From zipline tours, hot springs spas and volcano hikes to a horseback ride to a real eco-farm, you can be as busy or as relaxed as you like, but you'll never run out of things to do in the area. Just ask when you arrive and we can make recommendations and reservations for you. July 2011: If you catch the new reality show 'Love in the Wild' airing on CTV in Canada or NBC in the US, you'll experience life in El Castillo. They were filming the series when we visited in March and almost all of the scenes were shot in and around our little neighbourhood. Read about 'Love in the Wild' here http://www.ticotimes.net/Current-Edition/News-Briefs/Love-in-the-Wild-host-Darren-McMullen-tells-all_Wednesday-August-03-2011.
Amenities
Pool
Kitchen / Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Balcony / Patio
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Alajuela Province
Reviews
4.8/5.0
Outstanding(98 Reviews)
5.0
Located away from hustle and bustle of Fortuna, but close to many activities. Anna was a great help to us in suggesting activities and even helping us access some cash so that we could take the amazing horseback ride with Lilander to his secret waterfall. Highly recommend this stay and the warm people of El Castillo.
4.0
So the views are amazing of the lake and the volcano. They have amazing gardens outside. The house itself is pretty rustic. There’s no heating or air-conditioning so you have to leave the windows open at night which is fine except for the jungle noises lol. Also, the sofa in the living room is a polyurethane fold out sofa and there is a support bar about every 6 inches. So we really couldn’t even sit there and watch TV and drink our coffee in the morning. It’s pretty remote. It’s close enough within 20 to 30 minutes of zip lining and thermal springs and waterfalls. The road was rough but we were used to that as we’d already been in Costa Rica for seven days.
There is a pool, but it was too cold to get in during our stay. It’s a fine place. It’s a place to sleep, the beds are comfortable. The views are amazing and the garden is beautiful. It is not luxurious, sleeping on the couch is not an option.
5.0
We loved our stay in El Castillo. The people are incredible as well as the food. The hosts were very helpful and accommodating. I would highly recommend staying here.
5.0
We loved our stay in El Castillo. High above the lake, adjacent to the slopes of Arenal, we enjoyed breakfast lunch and dinner with spectacular views. The property has wonderful gardens laden with many varieties of plants and flowers attracting hummingbirds and an array of Costa Rican birds creating a relaxing day or evening to enjoy the property. A four wheel drive is a must. The local village people are friendly and welcoming. A One mile walk up to the El Castillo camp affords magnificent views of the lake and the volcano. 35 minutes from La Fortuna this vacation stay presents a remote location among the locals and away from the tourists! pura Vida!
5.0
We loved staying here as a part of our CR trip it was definitely a highlight. Anna was nearby and so responsive and all her suggestions were wonderful. Our highlight was definitely lilander horse trail and waterfall. Lee is so kind and it was an unforgettable day. We loved the views from this villa all the birds so many tocans etc, heard the howler monkey's. It was very cool at night we were always comfortable. I would highly recommend
5.0
Beautiful gardens and bountiful birdlife. The house was great and we did not have any problems. Definitely listen to the owners advice to arrive during daylight as the entrance is a little tricky the first time. Once you know where it is, it's easy
5.0
El Castillo village is an experience in true authentic culture. Our stay was wonderful. The property is a little challenging to get to because of the steep gravel road but the view and sunrises are breathtaking. Property managers were very responsive and helpful.
5.0
This home is exactly as pictured and featured beautiful lake and volcano views, a beautiful garden and well appointed furnishings. We arrived and it was sunny and beautiful and we just enjoyed the views. We also ate locally at the restaurants in El Castillo and they were great. We appreciated being out of busy, tourist trap La Fortuna. The local hosts arranged a horseback ride with he stable right down the street and my kids, aged 10 and 14, said it was the best horseback tour they've ever had. Everyone was friendly. My kids even asked if we could move while we had dinner at nearby El Patio. This is a great spot!
5.0
The views of the Arenal volcano and lake were amazing! There may not be a better view of the volcano anywhere, even at the National Park where we hiked the trail to the lookout. We enjoyed waking up to the horses grazing outside of our window, and taking in the sights and sounds while eating breakfast in the gazebo. The grounds with all of the flowering plants were stunning, and, while we didn't see any monkeys, we did see a lot of beautiful birds. Inside, the artwork was also beautiful. The beds were comfortable, as was the furniture on the screened porch. I was really happy that they provided a pail for composting. Tomas and Anna were very receptive to our questions and so helpful and kind! Some suggestions: 1. Put a curtain on the window in the back bedroom, as the lights from the other houses shine in at night. 2. Change out the bed frames as they're a bit too big for the beds and the rooms. We bumped our shins on the corners countless times until we leaned pillows against them. 3. Provide storage containers in the kitchen for leftover food. 4. As the couch (pull-out sofa) in the main living area is not very comfortable, perhaps replacing it with a futon would be better. 5. Fans in the upstairs bathrooms would be helpful. These are minor issues compared to the benefits of staying here, and I would highly recommend El Millon to others. It was the perfect size for two couples, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay
5.0
We absolutely enjoyed the amazing home and incredible views. It is exactly as pictured/described, with a ton to do easily accessible from the home via car. The entire process was seamless, and we would highly recommend this as a place to stay, off the beaten path.
I would note that it is difficult to walk anywhere besides one or two restaurants (be prepared to walk straight uphill on the way home), something to be cognizant of when booking!
5.0
Amazing views, gardens, perfect space for 2 couples. A little hard to get to at first but once you know where your going it’s all good. Highly recommend!
5.0
The home was perfectly located with views and enjoying nature.
We enjoyed the village and people who were so friendly and the proximity to everything.
Will definitely return.
5.0
This property was the perfect spot for the first portion of our Costa Rica vacation. We did a lot of hiking, zip-lining, and waterfall repelling all very close to this property. We loved relaxing in the plunge pool each day and enjoying the gorgeous gardens and views. Loved the cool evening air with the windows open. We would gladly return!
5.0
We loved our stay here. It was a perfect place to explore the Arenal/Fortuna area. We loved the quiet neighborhood/town that was still very close to all the activities and adventures near Arenal/Fortuna. We would absolutely stay there again.
5.0
Wonderful place to stay near Fortuna
We loved our stay here. It was a perfect place to explore the Arenal/Fortuna area. We loved the quiet neighborhood/town that was still very close to all the activities and adventures near Arenal/Fortuna. We would absolutely stay there again.
5.0
The property itself is beautifully furnished and decorated on the inside yet it’s the outside grounds and picturesque views which steal the show. Hummingbirds are in abundance when you’re in the back patio/pool area looking at the postcard like view of the volcano and lake. It was truly a piece of heaven.
5.0
We enjoyed this beautiful house and location. Stunning views and lovely garden. We did not have a vehicle so arranged transportation through a tour company as local rides are hard to find. Lots of excellent exercise going up the hill!
5.0
Amazing!
The property itself is beautifully furnished and decorated on the inside yet it’s the outside grounds and picturesque views which steal the show. Hummingbirds are in abundance when you’re in the back patio/pool area looking at the postcard like view of the volcano and lake. It was truly a piece of heaven.
10.0
We enjoyed this beautiful house and location. Stunning views and lovely garden. We did not have a vehicle so arranged transportation through a tour company as local rides are hard to find. Lots of excellent exercise going up the hill!
5.0
Excellent stay
We enjoyed this beautiful house and location. Stunning views and lovely garden. We did not have a vehicle so arranged transportation through a tour company as local rides are hard to find. Lots of excellent exercise going up the hill!
5.0
Perfect Place in Paradise
We were looking for a quiet location with great views of the volcano and we found it here! The property is a little remote (which is what we wanted), but by no means too far away from anything. It was an ideal location for us. The beauty of the position of the house on the mountainside with it's lush garden and quaint pool with tremendous views of Arenal cannot be overstated. Amazing. Thomas and team were very quick with detailed communications and nothing went undone. The property is equipped with what you need to cook on your own if you would like (we did). The upstairs screened in porch was vast and easily accommodates a whole family or two couples. I would say a card playing two couples paradise! The property was easily accessible to all La Fortuna sites which we enjoyed every day with a short drive.
5.0
Wonderful experience
5.0
El Castillo
Wonderful experience
5.0
The start of our vacation got off to a fabulously by renting this home. Each room was comfortable and inviting and every necessity was provided for us. It was "move in ready." The property itself was breathtaking with a huge variety of flowers, shrubs and trees. When the clouds dissipated the view of the volcano was unbelievable. The road to the house was a bit bumpy, but for frequent travelers to Costa Rica, we have come to realize this is the case in many of the most stunning places here in this country. We cannot say enough good about Tomas and his team, especially Anna. When I left my checkbook and checkbook register at the house after leaving, they promptly notified me and arranged for it to be delivered to Tamarindo. Additionally, the cleaning ladies did a spectacular job midweek. Not one complaint from us, other than a bit of rainy weather. For folks arriving from snowy and cold Illinois, we welcomed the warmth of the sun when it came out and of course, as always, the warmth of the people.
5.0
Incredible house and spectacular scenery
The start of our vacation got off to a fabulously by renting this home. Each room was comfortable and inviting and every necessity was provided for us. It was "move in ready." The property itself was breathtaking with a huge variety of flowers, shrubs and trees. When the clouds dissipated the view of the volcano was unbelievable. The road to the house was a bit bumpy, but for frequent travelers to Costa Rica, we have come to realize this is the case in many of the most stunning places here in this country. We cannot say enough good about Tomas and his team, especially Anna. When I left my checkbook and checkbook register at the house after leaving, they promptly notified me and arranged for it to be delivered to Tamarindo. Additionally, the cleaning ladies did a spectacular job midweek. Not one complaint from us, other than a bit of rainy weather. For folks arriving from snowy and cold Illinois, we welcomed the warmth of the sun when it came out and of course, as always, the warmth of the people.
5.0
We enjoyed 2 nights at this hillside home that has amazing views of Arenal Volcano and the lake.The home is near a local yoga and spa retreat called Essence Arenal that has a nice restaurant. We did the 1968 Volcano hike that is about 2.5 hours through a forest. The roads are not in great condition and very steep.
If you are a good driver and love adventure, then this is the spot for you.
There is a bbq restaurant a little north of the tourism center over the bridge. It is a good lunch stop.
5.0
A house with a view
We enjoyed 2 nights at this hillside home that has amazing views of Arenal Volcano and the lake.The home is near a local yoga and spa retreat called Essence Arenal that has a nice restaurant. We did the 1968 Volcano hike that is about 2.5 hours through a forest. The roads are not in great condition and very steep.
If you are a good driver and love adventure, then this is the spot for you.
There is a bbq restaurant a little north of the tourism center over the bridge. It is a good lunch stop.
5.0
Great visit to Arenal/La Fortuna area
Great place to stay, well maintained, beautiful plunge pool, amazing view from the gazebo and patio. The drive up the mountain is a little rough! Definitely heed the warnings about needing 4WD and not arriving after dark! Located very close to the ziplining at Sky Adventures which is highly recommended.
5.0
Excellent home! Beautiful views and everything was how it was described. Check in process was very easy too. The WiFi wasn’t that great but everything else was superb!
5.0
One-of-a-kind setting: the views cannot be understated. The garden is so beautiful; numerous flowering species oft-visited by hummingbirds. The sunroom is a special place for reading a good book, rain or shine. The local hosts were always helpful and cheerful. The road leading up to the property is pretty rough, so you'll definitely want a high-clearance vehicle.
5.0
Unique in every sense of the word
One-of-a-kind setting: the views cannot be understated. The garden is so beautiful; numerous flowering species oft-visited by hummingbirds. The sunroom is a special place for reading a good book, rain or shine. The local hosts were always helpful and cheerful. The road leading up to the property is pretty rough, so you'll definitely want a high-clearance vehicle.
4.0
Overall everything was perfect! The host family was amazing and very attentive with any questions I had. Was so happy we decided to stay in El Castillo instead of La Fortuna. The village was so cute with a lot of great restaurants. The furniture was not the most comfortable but everything else was perfect!
4.0
Wonderful vacation in a gorgeous location
Overall everything was perfect! The host family was amazing and very attentive with any questions I had. Was so happy we decided to stay in El Castillo instead of La Fortuna. The village was so cute with a lot of great restaurants. The furniture was not the most comfortable but everything else was perfect!
4.0
Belle expérience
Nous avons aimé notre expérience, villa propre, conforme au photo pour location. Pas de climatisation mais comme le soir c’est plus frais, nous avons super bien dormi. Lea locaux sont sympatiques, bon restaurant près de la villa. Villa a recommander
5.0
What a Jewel! Great home, if you want views this is it!
Home is nicely furnished super comfortable the beds are great views are fabulous check in super easy! This is a jewel in a very small village if you like privacy.
5.0
Heaven on Earth
Absolutely stunning views and great location. As everyone has mentioned the last 900 yards of the drive is very rough and needs a 4 wheel drive. Location is far away yet close enough for activities. Loved our stay.
5.0
I highly recommend this property for those desiring La Fortuna/Castillo /Arenol area. yes, as stated above, you will need a 4x4. Not that long to switch gears, but the area calls for it as well. The instructions to the house is point on! Thank you for that! I am glad we had straight to the house, and not Art and Herbs first. Had a hard time finding that in broad daylight ... There are many things to see and enjoy in the area. Know a little Spanish if you can; it helps. Have a wonderful time! SC, USA
5.0
Superb time
I highly recommend this property for those desiring La Fortuna/Castillo /Arenol area. yes, as stated above, you will need a 4x4. Not that long to switch gears, but the area calls for it as well. The instructions to the house is point on! Thank you for that! I am glad we had straight to the house, and not Art and Herbs first. Had a hard time finding that in broad daylight ... There are many things to see and enjoy in the area. Know a little Spanish if you can; it helps. Have a wonderful time! SC, USA
5.0
This property was so peaceful and beautiful. The views of the lake and volcano were amazing, the house was clean and the hosts were BEYOND helpful with everything. My only complaint was that we didn't have enough time there! I would come back in a heart beat :)
5.0
My girlfriend and I totally lucked out with this rental. El Castillo is the best village to stay in around the lake and volcano. This is not a highly touristy area but it is the closest to all of the activities you would want to do. Everything is close!!!
If you like privacy, horses, cows, wildlife and are looking for the most amazing view you could imagine, this property is the place to stay. When you are home you will spend a lot of your time in the enclosed balcony on the second level. The pool was a little cool for our liking but we were there during the rainy season so it was expected. That said, we were busy all day so we wouldn’t have swam much anyways.
Places we visited:
Mistico - amazing. 30 minutes
Arenal Lodge - amazing 20 minutes
Arenal 1968 - amazing 20 minutes
Fortune waterfall - beautiful 45 minutes
Ecothermals - WOW - 40 minutes
Arenal Lake - very peaceful - 10 minutes
Hiking from house - gorgeous - 0 minutes
Cocoa tour - worth it - 2 minutes
Places to eat
Essence Arenal - our favorite - 2 minutes
Burritos - forget name - delicious 3 minutes
Johns Pizza - delicious - 10/15 minutes
Fusion - don’t go
Assorted sodas - all are good
If there is a bad review for this place, ignore it. You will not be disappointed.
FAQs
How much does this chalet cost compared to others in Alajuela Province?
The average price for a rental in Alajuela Province is $81 per night. This rental is $139 above the average.
Is parking included with this chalet?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this chalet?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.. Enjoy the water!
Is Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle. pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this chalet is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.?
We found 8 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, kitchen / kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, and balcony / patio.
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