See all properties
Chalet

Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.

Photo gallery for Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.

In a country filled with beautiful vistas, none is more beautiful than ours...
The house features a stone and stucco exterior.
Our house was custom-built to take advantage of the best views in El Castilo.
Imagine waking with coffee in your gazebo overlooking the lake and volcano.
It's all about the view!

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 51550 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
La Fortuna/El Castillo
  • Arenal Volcano
  • Costa Rica Sky Adventures
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Tabacon Hot Springs
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal)
    ‪44 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Blue Room

1 Queen Bed

Green Room

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.

Our 'Castle in The Clouds' is just seven km from Volcano Arenal, perched 700m above sea-level overlooking the volcano, rainforest, pastures and Lake Arenal and close to many of the most popular amenities the region has to offer . Wake to the sound of howler monkeys, toucans and parrots and enjoy your first cup of locally-grown coffee in our covered gazebo or in the 25 sq. metre sunroom. Our home features a splash pool to cool off after a busy day of eco-adventuring. You can walk to many attractions in the village, including several quaint local restaurants. The home features casual dining indoor or out, hot water throughout, and stunning views from every room. It is completely equipped with a full-sized fridge with ice-maker, gas stove, microwave and blender and includes twice-weekly cleaning service (more often optional on request). An optional personal laundry service is also available. Active or passive, this is the perfect home base for your Arenal vacation!


Although our small stretch of the road is usually in good shape it is steep and the road coming into El Castillo is very rough. We highly recommend a 4x4 vehicle for all your excursions in Costa Rica. We now feature a paved driveway, a separate covered Gazebo (perfect for al fresco dining) and the yard has been completely enclosed with a custom-made 5' stone and wrought-iron fence. You'll enjoy our garden paradise yard featuring a variety of local and tropical plants designed to maximize your Costa Rica experience.

Now-Book Local Tours and Attractions: Hannah and Tomas, our on-site hosts can help you book many local tours and attractions for you on your arrival, saving you the hassle of running around. From zipline tours, hot springs spas and volcano hikes to a horseback ride to a real eco-farm, you can be as busy or as relaxed as you like, but you'll never run out of things to do in the area. Just ask when you arrive and we can make recommendations and reservations for you.

July 2011: If you catch the new reality show 'Love in the Wild' airing on CTV in Canada or NBC in the US, you'll experience life in El Castillo. They were filming the series when we visited in March and almost all of the scenes were shot in and around our little neighbourhood.
Read about 'Love in the Wild' here http://www.ticotimes.net/Current-Edition/News-Briefs/Love-in-the-Wild-host-Darren-McMullen-tells-all_Wednesday-August-03-2011.

Property manager

Joe Anderson
Premier Host

Languages

English, French, German, Spanish
Lock

Protect your payment — always book on Vrbo

If someone asks you to book through them or pay them directly before you book on Vrbo, report it.
Find out more

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Encantada Guesthouse: The family option of the Encantada Arenal Adults Only B&B

Unique Jungle Villa for 5, Fantastic Views, Jacuzzi Hot Tub & Private Pool!

  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Breakfast included
  • Air conditioning
9.8 out of 10, (65 reviews)
Unique Jungle Villa for 5, Fantastic Views, Jacuzzi Hot Tub & Private Pool!

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadlock
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Peñas Blancas

Located in El Millon, a neighbourhood in Peñas Blancas, this chalet is in a rural area and on a river. While the natural beauty of Lake Arenal and Arenal Volcano can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Baldi Hot Springs. Butterfly Conservatory and Arenal Eco Zoo are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and mountain biking nearby.
Map
La Fortuna/El Castillo

What's nearby

  • Costa Rica Sky Adventures - 12 min drive - 6.3 km
  • Tabacon Hot Springs - 24 min drive - 14.9 km
  • Arenal Volcano National Park - 25 min drive - 15.3 km
  • Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park - 31 min drive - 18.4 km
  • La Fortuna Waterfall - 46 min drive - 31.2 km

Getting around

  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) - 54 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Agua Ardiente Pool Bar - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Fusión Arenal Mirador. - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Caña Brava - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante El Jilguero - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Heliconia Restaurant - ‬25 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle. have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle.?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Lake Arenal-Stunning views of the lake, volcano and jungle. located?

Located in El Millon, this chalet is within 1 mi (2 km) of Butterfly Conservatory and Lake Arenal. Arenal Eco Zoo is 0.7 mi (1.2 km) away.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 90 out of 106 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 106 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 106 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 106 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 106 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Corey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay

Property was fantastic, beautiful view and garden and pool. Place was well looked after and clean, hosts were great. Town was friendly with decent places to eat. Butterfly sanctuary is a must. Really enjoyed waking up everymorning to the sounds of birds and view of the volcano
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Tom S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Came in the rainy season

We came at end of June. The house is very nice and cute. Beautiful gardens, clean pool , and comfortable beds. The host lives close by and brought us Tums instead of having to leave. Lots of birds watching. The ticos near by the nicest people. Great restaurants close and the views are spectacular. We are from FL and knew the house had no AC. We wouldn’t stay in a place again with out AC. We were hot. The water is very good and mountain well. The shower didn’t stay hot long but long enough. The main town La Fortuna is far about 35 min drive. We had a 4x4 and recommended it. We went to the butterfly conservatory and happy we did. It rained every day about 2 pm and mostly into night so we had to get events in by then and didn’t get to do everything we wanted. We love Costa Rica and the ticos are so nice and kind to Americans. We also stayed on beach Jaco before driving to the volcano side and prices are better on volcano side.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Derek B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing place

We loved our stay in El Castillo. The people are incredible as well as the food. The hosts were very helpful and accommodating. I would highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nikki M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Beautiful Castle in the Clouds

My husband and our 7-year old had about a month long stay at this property. It was lovely. The property was clean, laid out well and spacious. The views were incredible and the neighborhood was so quaint and friendly. There were lots of great food options right near the house as well as things to do. The busier town of Fortuna was close enough but I really enjoyed the countryside quietness of our location. It was such a beautiful, relaxing, rejuvenating stay. The hosts were also extremely helpful to us during our stay. I highly recommend this property. What a dream.
Stayed 19 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mitchell C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What a Jewel! Great home, if you want views this is it!

Home is nicely furnished super comfortable the beds are great views are fabulous check in super easy! This is a jewel in a very small village if you like privacy.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Scot B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

There aren’t enough superlatives for our stay! We loved the house, especially the view. We watched the sun come up over Arenal every morning. And when the volcano showed herself in all her glory that first morning it was magical. We loved La Mesa de Mama at the end of the road, too. Great local food with wonderful people. Can’t wait to come back for a longer stay!!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan M., Kerrville Texas

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

El Castillo

The home was perfectly located with views and enjoying nature. We enjoyed the village and people who were so friendly and the proximity to everything. Will definitely return.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angela H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing place to stay!

We absolutely enjoyed the amazing home and incredible views. It is exactly as pictured/described, with a ton to do easily accessible from the home via car. The entire process was seamless, and we would highly recommend this as a place to stay, off the beaten path. I would note that it is difficult to walk anywhere besides one or two restaurants (be prepared to walk straight uphill on the way home), something to be cognizant of when booking!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Judy L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Breathtaking View

El Castillo village is an experience in true authentic culture. Our stay was wonderful. The property is a little challenging to get to because of the steep gravel road but the view and sunrises are breathtaking. Property managers were very responsive and helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dave S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay. Great access to La Fortuna but just far enough to avoid the crowds

Beautiful gardens and bountiful birdlife. The house was great and we did not have any problems. Definitely listen to the owners advice to arrive during daylight as the entrance is a little tricky the first time. Once you know where it is, it's easy
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

KRISTINA C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful private home

Amazing views, gardens, perfect space for 2 couples. A little hard to get to at first but once you know where your going it’s all good. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

We loved staying here as a part of our CR trip it was definitely a highlight. Anna was nearby and so responsive and all her suggestions were wonderful. Our highlight was definitely lilander horse trail and waterfall. Lee is so kind and it was an unforgettable day. We loved the views from this villa all the birds so many tocans etc, heard the howler monkey's. It was very cool at night we were always comfortable. I would highly recommend
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Antonia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place with outstanding views

This house was perfect for our family of 5 as a base to explore the La Fortuna/Arenal region. Everything was great, especially the incredible panoramic views and the lush garden with all types of tropical flowers and the kids loved the plunge pool. We didn't bother cooking at night so it was nice that there were a few close by restaurants on the street. Highly recommend La Ventanita for good prices, nice ambiance and delicious milkshakes. Only way the house could be improved would be a few more standing electric fans to supplement the ceiling fans as we were there in a hot spell and it took awhile for the rooms to cool down in the evening as we followed instructions to leave all windows closed when we went out in case of sudden weather changes.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alexis M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Everything we could have asked for!

We had the most incredible time staying here! From waking up to the sounds of howler monkeys to enjoying a nice afternoon visit with the neighbor’s horse to dinner with a volcano view in the gazebo we had everything we could have asked for and more. Anna and team were so responsive and helpful they even recommended local activities and restaurants we should try. When our luggage was left behind by the airline, she even offered to be available for the delivery so we wouldn’t have to give up time from any of our adventures - truly above and beyond! The house has everything you could need from the wonderful pool for recovery from adventure, a fully stocked kitchen to fuel your stay, and a great location for easy access to things like La Fortuna waterfall, the hanging bridges, and of course the water sports on the lake. We look forward to staying again on our next trip to Costa Rica!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Surreal location.

We loved our stay in El Castillo. High above the lake, adjacent to the slopes of Arenal, we enjoyed breakfast lunch and dinner with spectacular views. The property has wonderful gardens laden with many varieties of plants and flowers attracting hummingbirds and an array of Costa Rican birds creating a relaxing day or evening to enjoy the property. A four wheel drive is a must. The local village people are friendly and welcoming. A One mile walk up to the El Castillo camp affords magnificent views of the lake and the volcano. 35 minutes from La Fortuna this vacation stay presents a remote location among the locals and away from the tourists! pura Vida!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicole W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

This home is exactly as pictured and featured beautiful lake and volcano views, a beautiful garden and well appointed furnishings. We arrived and it was sunny and beautiful and we just enjoyed the views. We also ate locally at the restaurants in El Castillo and they were great. We appreciated being out of busy, tourist trap La Fortuna. The local hosts arranged a horseback ride with he stable right down the street and my kids, aged 10 and 14, said it was the best horseback tour they've ever had. Everyone was friendly. My kids even asked if we could move while we had dinner at nearby El Patio. This is a great spot!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning property!

The house was everything you needed; cozy, quaint, stunning views, gorgeous landscaping and privacy. It accommodated everything we needed, which was surprising because we failed to realize there was no central air, and we have a ln 11 month old, but the area we were in stayed relatively cool, and even better at night (nice & cool) and they provided multiple fans to circulate the air. We were never uncomfortable. It was truly a treat for my son and husband who had so much fun checking out the frogs, snakes and stunning birds around the property, especially at night. The road leading to the house wasn’t bad at all, once you get up there the first time you’re not too worried about it but definitely do suggest 4WD. The drive to the house was beautiful and there are dozens of restaurants to stop and enjoy and take on the scenery. We absolutely prefer the jungle area over the beach towns! This house was a win!!!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

SELSABEEL A.

Remote location that feels like home

This beautiful home is located in el Castillo, which is about a 30 min drive from the nearest town, la fortuna. It had a beautiful view, modern house, fully furnished, lots of space, kitchen is fully stocked even with spices and coffee. The pool is really pretty. There is a little outdoor sheltered area that is amazing for breakfast as well as an beautifully thought out panoramic viewing room on the second floor. We were very comfortable for our 3 nights and didn't have problems with any Mosquitos or other bug bites! Be warned though that the location is very remote. We arrived in the evening and had to drive on a very bumpy road at nighttime for about 20 minutes. You really can't go much faster than 20 miles/hour on it. There are a few restaurants in the area but I'd recommend this place if you want some time alone and feel like preparing a few meals of your own. Would be great for 2 couples or a family. We loved arenal, be sure to do the cerro chato hike!

8/10 Good

Tracia K., Pittsburgh, United States

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing views! House is rustic

So the views are amazing of the lake and the volcano. They have amazing gardens outside. The house itself is pretty rustic. There’s no heating or air-conditioning so you have to leave the windows open at night which is fine except for the jungle noises lol. Also, the sofa in the living room is a polyurethane fold out sofa and there is a support bar about every 6 inches. So we really couldn’t even sit there and watch TV and drink our coffee in the morning. It’s pretty remote. It’s close enough within 20 to 30 minutes of zip lining and thermal springs and waterfalls. The road was rough but we were used to that as we’d already been in Costa Rica for seven days. There is a pool, but it was too cold to get in during our stay. It’s a fine place. It’s a place to sleep, the beds are comfortable. The views are amazing and the garden is beautiful. It is not luxurious, sleeping on the couch is not an option.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Hali H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Can't beat the views!

The views of the Arenal volcano and lake were amazing! There may not be a better view of the volcano anywhere, even at the National Park where we hiked the trail to the lookout. We enjoyed waking up to the horses grazing outside of our window, and taking in the sights and sounds while eating breakfast in the gazebo. The grounds with all of the flowering plants were stunning, and, while we didn't see any monkeys, we did see a lot of beautiful birds. Inside, the artwork was also beautiful. The beds were comfortable, as was the furniture on the screened porch. I was really happy that they provided a pail for composting. Tomas and Anna were very receptive to our questions and so helpful and kind! Some suggestions: 1. Put a curtain on the window in the back bedroom, as the lights from the other houses shine in at night. 2. Change out the bed frames as they're a bit too big for the beds and the rooms. We bumped our shins on the corners countless times until we leaned pillows against them. 3. Provide storage containers in the kitchen for leftover food. 4. As the couch (pull-out sofa) in the main living area is not very comfortable, perhaps replacing it with a futon would be better. 5. Fans in the upstairs bathrooms would be helpful. These are minor issues compared to the benefits of staying here, and I would highly recommend El Millon to others. It was the perfect size for two couples, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family stay in El Castillo

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location with awesome view of volcano

Located away from hustle and bustle of Fortuna, but close to many activities. Anna was a great help to us in suggesting activities and even helping us access some cash so that we could take the amazing horseback ride with Lilander to his secret waterfall. Highly recommend this stay and the warm people of El Castillo.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paule B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Villa très bien située dans le charmant village El Castillo

Villa avec une très belle vue, un joli jardin et très bien située pour faire les activités autour du volcan Arenal et découvrir la faune et la flore
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Adventure

This property was the perfect spot for the first portion of our Costa Rica vacation. We did a lot of hiking, zip-lining, and waterfall repelling all very close to this property. We loved relaxing in the plunge pool each day and enjoying the gorgeous gardens and views. Loved the cool evening air with the windows open. We would gladly return!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amy D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place to stay near Fortuna

We loved our stay here. It was a perfect place to explore the Arenal/Fortuna area. We loved the quiet neighborhood/town that was still very close to all the activities and adventures near Arenal/Fortuna. We would absolutely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

About the host

Hosted by Joe Anderson

Host profile image
We're a semi-retired couple gay couple who divide our time between homes in Canada, The United States and Costa Rica.

Why they chose this property

We fell in love with Costa Rica on our first visit here in 2007 and came to the Arenal area in 2010 when we had this home custom built for us. We love 'places at the end of the road' where we can experience authentic and unique characters. El Castillo is a true 'Tico' community. Apart from a dozen or so ex-pats from around the world, our neighbours are locals-farmers, labourers and professionals who live and work in this beautiful corner of the world. When we first stood on this piece of land we immediately knew that it was a one-of-a-kind view, and that has been confirmed by the hundreds of guests who have stayed here in the last four years. We're proud to be one of the most-popular destination properties in Costa Rica, enjoying super-host status and a five-star rating on every site. All our guests remark on the million-dollar view, the accommodations, the peace and the many local activities, but above all, they praise the friendly local people and how they make every one of guests feel at home and welcome.

What makes this property unique

Our house features quiet corners where even two couples or a family can find solitude. Whether in the second floor sunroom with its sweeping view of the volcano, the lake and the neighbouring jungle ravines, the secluded gazebo, a quiet chair on the front porch, sitting by the pool or taking a quiet walk in the tropical garden, this home offers many ways to commune with nature and connect with your inner self.

Languages:

English, French, German, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback