Over the Thanksgiving break, we had the trip of a lifetime in the Central American nation of Costa Rica. It’s relatively small size makes it possible to see various parts of the country over the course of one week. And you want to see as much as possible as Costa Rica accounts for only 0.03 percent of the earth's surface, however it contains nearly six percent of the world's biodiversity.
We spent some time in La Fortuna, the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park, and stayed at the five-star, boutique The Springs Resort & Spa which CNN Travel named one of the seven resorts with the most spectacular views in the world. On this week’s edition of Friday Fives, we’re sharing five reasons why you should consider a visit to The Springs Resort & Spa in Costa Rica!
The Awe-Inspiring Aesthetic
A quiet corner in the open-air lobby of The Springs Resort & Spa
Upon driving into the entrance of The Springs Resort & Spa, you will probably hear gasps from your travel companions. You might be uttering a few “Wows” as well. The Springs is the type of place that takes your breath away immediately. The lush landscaping and natural surroundings; the organic materials used in the indoor and outdoor decor; and the refreshing open-air concept make it easy to feel as if you’ve escaped the troubles of everyday life and entered into a serene getaway to connect with nature and recharge with family and friends. The tropical welcome drink doesn’t hurt either!
The Rooms
After taking in the splendid views from every corner of the al fresco lobby, you’ll be anxious to see your guest room. You won’t be disappointed. The quality furnishings continue in every room, suite and villa. The accomodations are unusually spacious with 530 square feet in the standard room - yes, the standard room! The bathroom itself must be 200 square feet with a separate (huge) soaking tub and shower and features luxurious toiletries.
Inside peek of a standard room at The Springs
Every room type has a beautifully furnished balcony with sweeping views of Arenal Volcano. It’s the perfect place to kick start your day with a cup of robust Costa Rican coffee…
or relax with a glass of vino at the end of the day!
The Hot Springs & Pools
Naturally, a major reason to stay at The Springs Resort & Spa are the hot springs and pools. Everywhere you turn on property, there seems to be another water area for relaxing and soaking in the incredible views of the volcano. The hot springs range in temperature from 83 ˚F to 103˚F with varied surroundings like raging waterfalls and secluded forest spots. We made it a game to find springs with no one else in them! And there’s even a slide for the kids in your travel party! Whatever your mood, you can find the hot spring right for you!
One of 12 pools located at the base of the main building - eight are fed directly by water pumped from the hot mineral springs; the other four are chlorinated but heated to various temperatures by the hot springs through a heat exchange system
Waterfall on the Arenal River
The Activities
When you’ve done enough relaxing, The Springs Resort & Spa makes it easy and convenient to tap into your adventurous side. In the Club Rio Outdoor Center located at the bottom of the resort on the Arenal River frontage, you can rock climb, kayak, river tube, horseback ride, rappell, hike, mountain bike and fish.
Rock climbing at Club Rio
Our favorite part of Club Rio is the tour of the on-site wildlife preserve. The guides are real experts who have a passion for the rescue animals that have either been confiscated from poachers or donated to the preserve. You’ve never seen colors as vivid as those found on the beak of a toucan or been mesmerized by the majesty of a puma. But the sloth, Costa Rica’s beloved mammal, will steal your heart.
Toucan at Club Rio Wildlife Preserve
Ocelot at Club Rio Wildlife Preserve
The sloth that stole our hearts in Costa Rica
The Food
The Springs Resort & Spa doesn’t disappoint in the culinary department. There are number of dining experiences - from a savory lunch of Costa Rican specialities like ceviche and rice with shrimp before or after your Club Rio activities at Rancho Club to fine dining at Las Ventanas where the views rival the fusion food. Although the resort is family-friendly, The Springs has a number of bars and lounges - even a swim-up bar where you can enjoy a cold Imperial Costa Rican beer, while the kids can partake in a frothy, freshly-made milkshake!
The Springs Resort & Spa is truly a special destination. The secluded hot springs, fine dining, spa offerings and gorgeous surroundings make it a fantastic spot for honeymooners and couples celebrating anniversaries. The outdoor activities, wildlife preserve and adventure excursions offered in the nearby town make The Springs a great option for families. The Springs Resort & Spa is a place to which we’ll return, no doubt.