The Springs Resort and Spa is the splurge of the Arenal region and one of the most spectacular resort settings in Central America. It occupies a 165-acre estate on a ridge about a thousand feet above the valley, roughly nine kilometres west and three and a half north of La Fortuna, with the volcano filling the view from almost everywhere. The heart of the resort is its hot springs: free-form, landscaped pools fed by natural thermal water, ranging from pleasantly warm to properly hot, scattered down the hillside among waterfalls and gardens, with swim-up and poolside bars. There are five restaurants, among them Las Ventanas for fine dining, Tres Cascadas, Ginger Sushi and the poolside Tree Tops Grill, plus lounges and a café. The Sanctuary Spa covers some 14,000 square feet. Below the resort, Club Río runs along about a mile of the Arenal River, with tubing, kayaking, horseback riding and climbing, and the Arenal Wildlife Sanctuary, run with the environment ministry, cares for rescued animals.
Location and getting around: the resort is outside town on the volcano’s northern side, so you will need the hotel’s area shuttle, taxis or a car to reach La Fortuna, the waterfall and the national park, all a short drive away. Parking and valet are free, and an airport shuttle can be booked for a fee. The ridge-top position, away from the main road, makes nights very quiet.
The rooms: there are about seventy-four rooms, suites and villas, from guest rooms with volcano-view balconies to multi-bedroom suites and private villas for families and groups. Most have large windows and terraces aimed at Arenal, so ask for a volcano-facing category.
Who it suits: couples on a honeymoon or milestone trip, and families who want everything on site, since there is a water slide, a children’s pool, mini golf and supervised childcare for a fee. It is ideal if you would rather spend your Arenal days soaking and relaxing than driving between attractions.
Good to know: the springs open early and close at night, and a buffet breakfast is served with volcano views; check whether it is in your rate. Book Club Río activities and spa treatments when you reserve, especially in the dry season from December to April.
Why stay here
- ✓Natural hot spring pools
- ✓Sanctuary Spa
- ✓Five restaurants
- ✓Swim-up bar
- ✓Club Rio river adventures
- ✓Arenal Wildlife Sanctuary
- ✓Volcano-view terraces
- ✓Free valet parking
Good questions
How far is The Springs Resort from La Fortuna?+
The resort is about nine kilometres west and three and a half kilometres north of La Fortuna town centre. A car, taxi or the hotel’s paid area shuttle gets you there in a short drive.
Are the hot springs included for guests?+
Yes, hotel guests have use of the resort’s thermal pools, which range from warm to hot. The springs open in the early morning and close at night.
Is The Springs good for families?+
Yes, it has a children’s pool, a water slide, mini golf and river activities at Club Río. Supervised childcare is available for an extra fee.
