El Castillo has become a must-see destination for creative people traveling Costa Rica. It has a growing number of ex-pat entrepreneurs or residents attracted by the the best views of the volcano and lake. El Castillo gives you the opportunity to enjoy a lot of fun activities including horseback riding, canopy tours, hiking, canoeing, swimming, and kayaking. Butterfly conservatory, largest in Costa Rica, is another attraction in this area. And I can’t help mentioning  the Snake and Reptile Zoo. Now the only question is where to stay while visiting El Castillo? Essence Arenal of course! Located directly on Lake Arenal a top the hills overlooking Arenal volcano, Essence Arenal is undoubtedly one of the best hostels in El Castillo. It offers breathtaking views of the lake, Arenal volcano and El Castillo Valley.

Accommodations

Standard with private bath can accommodate maximum 4 persons. Private room with shared bath comes with 2 options – one can accommodate maximum 3 persons and the other can accommodate maximum 5 persons. Superior Terrace Tents with shared bath also has 2 options – one accommodates 2 persons and the other one accommodates 5 persons. Maximum 3 persons can stay in Standard Tents with shared bath. But if you are looking for more privacy, Superior Room with private bath is perfect for you. This room can accommodate maximum 4 persons.

Camping:

Looking for a camping opportunity in El Castillo? A great campground located a 10 minutes walk from the hostel. You just need to walk through the jungle to the organic farm side. A panoramic view towards Arenal Volcano and lake awaits for you there. Though the campground is under construction, they can still offer a shower and composting toilet. You will be surprised to see a small natural pool and small kitchen already built in this campground located in the middle of a permaculture gardens.

Restaurant and Demo Cuisine:

The restaurant is ready to serve delicious breakfast, coffee or tea, and fruits from 7 a.m in the morning. Looking for vegetarian dishes? Essence Demo Cuisine is for you. They serve delicious vegetarian cuisines.

Activities:

Essence Arenal offers many fun activities including Yoga, Farm hike and harvest, Cacao Workshop and Temascal.

Volunteering:

Essence Arenal provides Volunteering opportunities that set it apart from other hostels in this area. You can work as a volunteer and help Essence Arenal team with teaching, farming, cooking / shopping, building, gardening and more.

Contact

Essence Arenal Boutique Hostel
1 km al sur de El Castillo, junto a la Granja de Mariposas, El Castillo, 1230
Tel: 2479 1131
Website: essencearenal.com
email: info@essencearenal.com
La Fortuna, Costa Rica