Discover the enchanting beauty of Costa Rica's volcanic landscapes at Lake Arenal and La Mansion Inn. This tropical paradise offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural splendor, with a backdrop of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Experience the thrill of canyoneering, the serenity of horseback riding through lush rainforests, and the comfort of cozy cottages, all while indulging in the local culture and cuisine.
Nestled between the towns of Arenal and Fortuna in the northwestern region of Costa Rica, La Mansion Inn Arenal is more than just a hotel; it's a luxurious escape into a tropical grotto. The resort boasts a meticulously groomed lawn, vibrant exotic flowers, and an infinity pool that seems to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. With palm trees dotting the hillsides and clouds caressing the clear blue skies above the active Arenal Volcano, the setting is straight out of a nature documentary.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by the warm smile of Joey, an American expatriate from Tennessee who has managed the hotel for several years. Living in a private villa attached to the main hotel, Joey embodies the contentment found in this paradise, where the year-round temperature hovers around a comfortable 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
La Mansion Inn features approximately 14 private cottages, each offering breathtaking views of the mystical Arenal Lake and the surrounding mountains. Designed to capture the stunning east-facing sunrises and sunsets, these cottages come with private covered parking, patio furniture for enjoying the scenery, and daily maid service to ensure a pristine environment. The decor, crafted by Italian artists, gives each cottage a unique character and charm. The soon-to-be-completed honeymoon suite promises to be a lavish affair with an indoor pool, spa, two bedrooms, and a full kitchen for those willing to indulge.
Costa Rica is synonymous with "Pura Vida," a phrase that encapsulates the country's ethos of simple living and harmony with nature. This philosophy is evident at La Mansion Inn, where the pace of life slows down, and technology takes a backseat to the natural world. Despite its serene setting, the inn provides modern amenities such as internet access, phones, and cable television, offering a touch of familiarity for guests seeking a connection to home.
La Mansion Inn caters to the adventurous spirit with a variety of excursions that depart directly from the hotel. Guests can conveniently add the cost of tours to their hotel tab, simplifying the payment process. Some of the adventure packages include:
Guests at La Mansion Inn are treated to complimentary, high-quality meals, including a variety of local and international dishes. The inn's commitment to fresh ingredients and safe drinking water ensures a delightful dining experience that rivals the comfort of home-cooked meals.
One of the lesser-known facts about Lake Arenal is its submerged history. About 15 years ago, a significant volcanic eruption altered the river's flow, resulting in the flooding of a town now lying at the bottom of the lake. This underwater ghost town adds a layer of intrigue to the area, offering a potential exploration site for scuba divers.
Costa Rica's climate is characterized by two distinct seasons: the wet and the dry. During the wet season, which lasts half the year, it's not uncommon to experience up to 20 days of rain in a single month. This contrast in weather patterns provides a unique backdrop for the natural light shows created by frequent lightning storms, which are a stark departure from the more temperate climates found in places like Southern California.
The adventures at La Mansion Inn are a testament to the country's rich biodiversity and the opportunities for immersive experiences in nature. From the vibrant flashes of fireflies to the thunderous power of tropical storms, every moment is a reminder of the raw beauty that Costa Rica has to offer.
For a more detailed account of this Costa Rican adventure and to view accompanying photos, visit the original feature on Jetsetters Magazine.
Article by Josh Edelson, Jetsetters Magazine Southern California Correspondent. Visit Jetsetters Magazine for more travel stories and features.
