Nepenthe B&B

This place was exactly what we were looking for in a home base for a first trip to Costa Rica. We stayed here in November 2023. First of all, it is way up a winding hill, but that's the reason it has such an incredible view of all of Lake Arenal, and sometimes the volcano. This is probably also why the food prices are a little steep, having to bring everything up a large hill can't be easy. That being said, the food was soooo good. The chef, Luiza (If I remember correctly) is so good. Every dish we had was great, the typical Costa Rican breakfast was so good and hardy before a day of hiking. The pool was so lovely to sit in and enjoy the view. There's also this lovely porch next to the pool that has its own seating area that was amazing day and night (so many fireflies and hummingbirds). The staff was lovely and very helpful and so so nice. The rooms were honestly great, it's not extremely fancy but we didn't want that. The shower was great and spacious, the bed was comfy, and the sound of rain at night was like a giant white noise machine. I would definitely stay here again if we didn't want to explore the rest of the country! Perfect location for hiking and exploring the Arenal area.

My boyfriend and I came here for a night, we are digital nomads so just wanted to change a bit our workplace and enjoy the views. And this was the right place for that! The room is very comfy, even has a desk on it. The food was delicious, the pool & jacuzzi are very nice! We highly recommend it!!!

We had a great stay at Nepenthe!! The location is on the southwest side of Arenal so it's closer to the hiking trails (1968, Observatory Lodge, etc) than it is the town of La Fortuna, but you still get to all the main activities including the hot springs within 30 minutes. We stayed in Villa 7 which is nicknamed the "Hidden Villa" and it has amazing views! If you can stay in this one, it is highly recommended. the views of Arenal Lake and the surrounding hills are amazing. We saw all sorts of different birds and animals every time we looked. The restaurant onsite, The Phoenix, is really great! Breakfast is included in the room price and there are a few options to choose from. We didn't eat lunch there, but did eat dinner there every night and we were not disappointed. A good mix of local Costa Rican dishes as well as some more "kid friendly" options like pizza and pasta. We really didn't have anything bad to say about the stay, but the only thing to be aware of is the drive up the hill to get to the hotel is not for the faint of heart. Once you do it once, it gets easier, but the first time up it's highly recommended to do in daylight. We did not have a 4x4 and made it up with no issue, but our rental car did have fairly high clearance which came in handy. There are a few spots where some concrete tracks were laid down to make things easier. Use those, take the turns wide, and don't be afraid to accelerate uphill and you'll be good to go!

First, forget the old reviews. The owners have updated things. Hot water works, there is wifi, etc. Yes, the drive is up a rural road in a third world country, but what did you expect? Florida? It's completely driveable. Second, there is a decent chance you will not want to leave when you see the views and how peaceful this place is. Unit 7 is magical. Third, you might get a chance to meet the charming owners who are happy to engage you in conversation and tell more stories than you find on the menu. Last, the restaurant is fine. The drinks are cheap and large - just like the portions. We will be returning!

Pour le positif: Chambre triple standard de belle taille, literie confortable, accueil sympathique, vue incroyable sur le lac, très isolé et calme (4x4 indispensable pour monter jusqu'au logement) mais super restaurant en bas de la piste, présence d'une piscine (mais pas été dedans) Pour les points à améliorer: Wifi catastrophique (se coupe et s'allume en permanence), salle de douche/wc minuscule, petit déjeuner bon mais très léger

Malheureusement l établissement est vieillissant, pas de lumière dans la salle de bain qui pour information le lavabo se trouve dans la pièce à vivre et aucune lumière. Quand à la chambre pas à la hauteur évier qui fuit! Pas de lampe de chevet! Tout est vieillissant ! Spa hors service et petit déjeuné moyen