Essence Arenal Hostel

The food at the hotel is exceptional, with a variety of options including organic, gluten-free, and vegetarian dishes. Guests have praised the tasty and healthy meals, as well as the delicious smoothies.

The hotel is situated in an outstandingly beautiful location with breathtaking views of Volcán Arenal and Laguna Arenal. Guests can expect to be in direct contact with the local eco-system, with abundant wildlife visible from the rooms and during hikes on the property's trails.

Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including morning yoga classes, massages, spa facilities, and a night walk adventure with a local guide. Additionally, there are opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and taking part in a cacao tour.

The staff at the hotel are exceptionally polite, friendly, and well-informed. Guests have particularly praised the helpfulness and responsiveness of the manager and evening concierge, as well as the accommodating nature of the hotel's team.

The hotel offers various types of lodging, including camping tents in the trees, private cabins, and one-bedroom cabanas. Guests have reported comfortable and modern accommodations, with some mentioning the spectacular views from the rooms.

The hotel is quite isolated, and guests without a car may find it challenging to access other areas or attractions. Renting a car can provide more freedom and convenience for exploring the surrounding areas.

Some rooms may not have fans, and the climate can get warm. Bringing a portable fan can help ensure a comfortable stay, especially for those sensitive to heat.

Before booking, ensure that the room amenities meet your needs. Some guests found the kitchen utensils to be insufficient, so it's advisable to confirm the availability of necessary items if planning to cook in the room.

Several guests mentioned that the views from the rooms were spectacular. Opting for a room with a balcony facing the lake or volcano comes highly recommended.

The hotel is situated in a remote location, so guests should be prepared for limited access to nearby facilities. Bringing along any essential items or medications is advisable.

Some rooms may not have fans, and the climate can get warm. Bringing a battery-operated fan can help ensure a comfortable stay, especially for those sensitive to heat.

As the hotel is isolated, guests without a car may incur additional expenses for transportation to nearby attractions. It's advisable to budget for these extra costs if relying on shuttle services or taxis.

Some guests reported discrepancies with the inclusion of breakfast. It's recommended to verify the inclusions with the hotel before arrival to avoid any misunderstandings.

The hotel offers various activities such as yoga, spa treatments, and hiking trails. Guests can make the most of their stay by participating in these on-site activities and immersing themselves in the natural surroundings.

For guests staying in remote locations on the property, renting a 4x4 vehicle may be beneficial due to the challenging terrain. This can enhance accessibility and overall convenience during the stay.