Our Routes in Arenal, Costa Rica

April 5, 2024
No Comments
Costa Rica, Latin America, Our Routes

…with Head of Trade Sales, Gaynor

With its i-conical volcano, forest canopies, thundering waterfall, and thermal springs, Arenal was a true adventure for our team as they hiked through its pathways and crossed the lake by boat through the region. Our Head of Trade Sales Gaynor Atherton shared with us why this was her favourite part of the trip to Costa Rica.

Gaynor and team Latin Routes enjoying the view of Arenal
Gaynor and the Latin Routes team enjoying the view of Arenal

YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION IN COSTA RICA? 

Arenal – the hotels and town of La Fortuna, sit under the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano with stunning scenery all around this area and lots to see and do. We had a mix of wildlife which is in abundance in Costa Rica, so no area disappoints with this. It really is a beautiful area with lots of Hot Springs to choose from, stunning scenery, hikes and lots of amazing activities to suit the whole family with the added bonus of some stunning hotels to relax in  – which is needed if travelling around the country.

Gaynor on Lake Arenal
Gaynor on Lake Arenal

HOW DID YOU GET THERE? 

We drove from Tortuguero to Arenal (4 hours) with a rest stop en route. Our first glimpse of the volcano was under a cloud, but the excitement for this area kicked in straight away.

Atmospheric Arenal shrouded in clouds (photo by Lewis Freeth)
Atmospheric Arenal shrouded in clouds (photo by Lewis Freeth)

FIRST TIME OR REPEAT TRIP?

First time, but not my last!

MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT? 

Waking up and opening the curtains to the most amazing clear blue sky and a clear view of the volcano with slight puffs of smoke coming from the summit – the bright sunshine making the surrounding foliage look so vibrant, with hummingbirds and butterflies dancing around the trees in front of our room.

The morning view from Gaynor's room
The morning view from Gaynor’s room

BEST HOLIDAY EXCURSION/EXPERIENCE? 

The Lake crossing – this isn’t just a transfer away from Arenal it’s an excursion in itself.

Gaynor takes in the view of the volcano from the boat
Gaynor takes in the view of the volcano from the boat

With stunning views back to the volcano and surrounding areas and amazing wildlife, it was such a lovely hour out on the lake before our journey to our next destination began.

A type of heron perched over the lake snapped by Gaynor
A type of heron perched over the lake snapped by Gaynor

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE HOTEL OR LODGE THERE?

I stayed at Arenal Manoa and loved this property – it has spacious rooms, with amazing views of the volcano, a fabulous restaurant with top-notch food and lovely Hot Springs. However, if I had to choose a favourite – Nayara would be it! A leading hotel of the world with 3 hotels in one – oozing luxury, amazing service, food and facilities and an abundance of wildlife in the grounds, along with fabulous views of the volcano.

Nayara's terrace and fountain with views
Nayara’s terrace and fountain with views

WHAT DO YOU MOST RECOMMEND PACKING OR PREPPING FOR?

Comfortable cool clothing as it can get quite humid and hot, a good quality light closed-toe walking sandal, a good camera, and a sense of adventure. 

FAVOURITE FOOD AND DRINK IN THIS DESTINATION?

The food was lovely in this area – lots of fresh fish and meat/vegetables. Costa Rica caters for all tastes.

Gaynor's Salmon and veggie dinner
Gaynor’s Salmon and veggie dinner

The fruit is fantastic all over the country and we enjoyed a lovely passionfruit smoothie here.

Passionfruit smoothie
Passionfruit smoothie

SUM UP YOUR TRIP IN THREE WORDS: 

Pura Vida meaning pure life or simple life, however its more than just a phrase – it’s a way of life! Beautiful Wonderful.


Ready to book your trip to Costa Rica? Get in touch with one of our specialists today on 020 3820 0885, or complete the enquiry form to get in touch.


 


Share It:
Facebooktwitterredditpinterestmail

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.