Entire home

A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.

A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.

Photo gallery for A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.

Property grounds
River pool, maintained seasonally. Not available year round.
Fitness facility
1 of 6 sitting areas, 1/3 of the second floor balcony and Luna the Great Dane.
Rm #3: 2 queen beds, rustic, close to nature, very spacious and comfortable.

Overview of A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.

Reviews
9.4 out of 10 Exceptional
6 bedrooms7 bathroomsSleeps 221394 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free WiFi

Check out the area

Map
La Fortuna, Alajuela Province
  • Popular LocationArenal Adventure World6 min drive
  • Popular LocationLa Fortuna Waterfall14 min drive
  • Popular LocationArenal Volcano29 min drive

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 22)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed, 1 Double Bed and 2 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed and 1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

3 Single Beds and 1 King Bed

Bedroom 4

3 Single Beds and 1 Double Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Double Bed and 3 Single Beds

Bedroom 6

1 Double Bed

House

+2
1 Double Bed and 5 Single Beds

7 bathrooms

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 4

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 5

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 6

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 6

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 7

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.

Princesa de la Luna 'Eco Lodge' experience is everything one imagines a stay in Costa Rican paradise to be. The house ,complex perches on the edge of the valley providing incredible views of the the jungle spread out below and the volcano looming over the far side of the valley.

These views were one of many reasons that NBC chose to shoot part of their reality show, 'Love In The Wild,' here. 'Highly, highly recommend it for groups and families...'

The Ecolodge provides a unique lifestyle experience by social integration with the local community.

The kitchen/dining room area accommodates up to 30 people. There you will often find bunches of bananas and coconuts hanging from hooks and ready to be used. Large, locally made wooden tables provide functional preparation and dining area and there are propane and wood fired stoves as well as a microwave, toaster and coffee maker. There is also a brick grill/oven with a motorized spit large enough for a full pig or a half dozen chickens if you decide to have a party. The kitchen has everything that you need to prepare your own meals.

There are a variety of ways for you to enjoy your time here including MILES of maintained paths created over the course of nine years. The paths are lined with carefully selected plants and the forests have been very carefully maintained to achieve a blend of cultivated fruit and sustainable gardening, park land and virgin forest.

By using proper plants and sustainable permaculture techniques, we've achieved a unique experience here. Maintained grounds gradually give way to more rustic views, which gradually blend into permanent, untouched, virgin jungle. One of the trails ends at a stream that cuts its way down through heavy plant growth and a unique, 'weeping wall' of black earth that is covered in a variety of orchids.

Along the way you'll discover not one but two swimming pools. One is slightly more conventional with maintained plants and gardens around it and is fed by pure spring water. The other is hidden at the end of a hike to the bottom of the valley next to the stream. It is fed directly from the little stream, there are NO CHEMICALS used in either. Just a continual supply of fresh, clean water flowing into the pools and then back out into the stream.Right now the main swimming pool is functional and swimable but needs tiles to be replaced and general maintenance so it is not as well presented as in the fotos!! Sometimes we have difficulty changing the water as from the Natura Spring it can take time to fill up...but most of the time it is usable..
Two German guests recently described their hike to the waterfall and enjoyment of the river pool as the best thing that they've done so far in Costa Rica, saying that the river pool looked as if it had been built by elves and had a 'feel of magic to it.' The River Pool is only sometimes available, as it is prone to flooding after heavy rains. However both are excellent spots for secluded picnics and relaxed enjoyment... either alone or with special friends.

Back at the house you'll find that the line between indoor and outdoor living has been blurred. Huge bedrooms open out onto balconies and a variety of sitting areas, all of which are appointed with interesting curios, wall art and a profusion of plants. Several of the rooms are connected via open hallways lined with tropical gardens instead of actual walls, providing the perfect balance between security and the impression of living right in nature itself.

The natural flow from the balconies into the dining/kitchen area take you past a small, bamboo paneled bar that is right next to a sitting area with a stereo and which easily converts into a dance floor.

The hanging bunches of bananas attract toucans and other birds. While writing this I was watching a Keel Billed Toucan munching away on a plantain with great enthusiasm. Other animals in the area include kinkachoos, a dizzying variety of lizards and lots of other animals.

A guest recently described his experience here by saying, 'It takes a minute to sink in that this is not a zoo and not an animal reserve. It's an actual house, right in the middle of paradise and all of these birds, animals and everything else are real, here and natural!' I think that his comments sum up the experience here quite nicely.

We are only 5 kilometers away from down town La Fortuna, meaning that you are minutes away from all of the typical activities and tours that you might enjoy including:

* Hanging Bridges
* Zip Lines
* Hot Springs
* ATV and other rentals
* Butterfly Conservatory
* Eco-Snake Zoo
* Horseback Riding
* Volcano Hikes
* Rafting
* Canyoning and Rappelling
* Bird Watching
* Swimming
* Much more

We're happy to book activities on your behalf and can save you 5 - 10% if booked in advance.

You'll find this house ideal for group getaways like family reunions, corporate retreats, group vacations, sports teams, civic groups etc.

This place has been a labour of love for a decade and it is truly, one of a kind. I'm certain that you'll love your stay here and I'm looking forward to meeting you.

Property manager

Jonathan Davies

Languages

English, French, Spanish

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

Events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Important information

You need to know

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
Parties and events are allowed on site
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 fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Peñas Blancas

This holiday home is located in Peñas Blancas. Baldi Hot Springs and Tabacon Hot Springs are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano National Park. Arenal Adventure World and Puentes Colgantes del Arenal are also worth visiting.
Map
La Fortuna, Alajuela Province

What's nearby

  • Arenal Adventure World - 6 min drive
  • Costa Rica Chocolate Tour - 9 min drive
  • Baldi Hot Springs - 13 min drive
  • La Fortuna Waterfall - 14 min drive
  • Arenal Volcano - 29 min drive

Getting around

  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • Chipotle's - 8 min drive
  • Arábigos Coffee House - 8 min drive
  • Restaurante Nanku - 9 min drive
  • Soda La Hormiga - 8 min drive
  • Restaurante y Pizzería La Parada - 9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest. have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest. pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest. located?

Situated in Peñas Blancas, this holiday home is 2.3 mi (3.8 km) from Arenal Adventure World and within 6 miles (10 km) of Costa Rica Chocolate Tour and Puentes Colgantes del Arenal. The Motmot Jungle and La Fortuna Waterfall are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 95 out of 122 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 19 out of 122 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 122 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 122 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 5 out of 122 reviews" "

9.0/10

Cleanliness

4.0/10

Amenities

4.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.2/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

MJ G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
The team was fantastic!! Beautiful property. They were a super understanding and accommodating team! William was extremely welcoming and hand great recommendations, Jorlan found the coolest wildlife on the hike, and Anderson was extremely attentive. This place was a sanctuary and for those who are just looking to relax and experience the rainforest for all it’s glory. Thank you!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

adam a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A truly amazing and memorable experience
I cannot say enough about the quality of experience our family had at Princesa de la Luna. We had our family of 17 ranging in age from 4 to 70 for my father's 70th birthday. The accommodations suited our family of 6 children and 11 adults perfectly with each small family having their own rooms. The property layout embraces the jungle experience with open air seating, kitchen and dining, incredible views and short, but somewhat technical, walks to 2 separate swimming locations. While all of this was incredible, what really sets this place apart from others I have visited is the quality and kindness of the staff. William and the staff are a group of wonderful individuals! We did the adventure tour on the property with our whole group and William led us through the jungle explaining what different plants were and letting us taste different fruits and herbs. We then hiked into a waterfall and down through the creek to the natural swimming pool where there was the option for a therapeutic mud bath. William and the staff also cooked every morning and night for our entire group and every meal was incredible. They even roasted a pig on the open wood fired oven for my father's birthday dinner complete with cake.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024

8/10 Good

Chris D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
20 Seniors
This place was such an adventure and way out of our comfort zone! We all had a spectacular stay. Chef William and his staff could not have been any more accommodating! Food was excellent! He was absolutely the best, and Anderson was darling. This is not a place for people looking for a plush place. This is very rustic and outdoorsy. The adventure tour they offer is not for sissies! Great fun and very challenging. The cabins were very much like the pictures and everyone felt comfortable and loved how they were all very unique. New pillows would have been nice. I think all 20 of us would definitely recommend your place for anyone who wants an adventure!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

4/10 Poor

Vikas B.

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Great location with bad hygiene
Good: 1. William, the guy manages the property is a great guy. He speaks good english and is always available for any questions. 2. Location and the greenery on the property is great and well maintained. Bad: 1. The whole building is old(ancient) and bad here. Very Bad hygiene everywhere in the building. 2. ⁠The pics on the website are misleading. It’s not the same as the reality. I think the pics were taken when the property is new. 3. *Dead bugs everywhere. On the bed, sheets, furniture.* 4. ⁠Stinky fabric furniture/couch. Couldn’t sit for a min. It had dead bugs on it. I have pics and videos. 5. ⁠No access to laundry but you can give your dirt cloths and they will do the laundry. 6. ⁠Had plumbing issues but they managed to fix it. 7. ⁠Bathroom are not in good condition but can get the bare minimum job. 8. ⁠I’m not certain but I think they don’t wash/change the sheets when the guests leave. I observed while checking out. They simply make the bed with the old sheets. I’ll NOT recommend this property but if they take care of the hygiene issues then it will be a great place to stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jimmy F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
La Fortuna Adventure
First time to Costa Rica, La Fortuna was our first stop. We hoped for a rain forest adventure nesr the volcano and it was better than we hoped. The overall property is spread out. We had 5 seperate rooms/bungalows to choose from. It slept our party of 12 very comfortably. William is a great host. You must take his waterfall tour, and allow the staff to make breakfast. The breakfast was outstanding and very affordable. We had William cook for us one night, that was also outstanding. William also helped set up some of our tours and for a small fee, drove us in their van. All of the services made for an exceptional stay. The beds and bungalows are a little dated, but that is part of the ambience, our entire group loved it.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

About the host

Hosted by Jonathan Davies

Host profile image
I don't like to talk about myself all that much, but I'll say that I came to Latin America 20 years ago and fell in love with it. Over the course of that time I was a financial consultant se in almost every country in Latin America . When i saw this property, there was no road no electricity no water. I purchased the land and sine then it has been a challenging project ,not easy at all...and has required an immense effort to develop and get to its its current level..The challenge is ongoing and our miantenance burden is muh greater than a normal hotel. Everyone thought that I was mad for several years. Of course no one thinks so now! :)

Why they chose this property

It's quite simply stunning. The volcano view is everything in this part of the country and I have incredible ones. And then of course there is the type of soil and other growing conditions; I intended from the start to create a blended perma-culture environment and so it needed certain growing conditions... light, rainfall, elevation etc. And of course there is very little virgin jungle in this area outside of the protected parks. Much of what is referred to as 'primary jungle' around here is actually second growth forest. So it was both a privilege and a huge challenge to incorporate nearly inaccessible, true jungle into the project. But the results are fantastic.

What makes this property unique

It is very difficult to find houses with the ability to accommodate larger family groups. While there are plenty of homes which can accommodate up to 10 or 12, groups any larger usually require renting multiple properties at significant expense. Here your entire group of up to 23 people can be accommodated perfectly comfortably. This means being able to keep your group together without having to worry about coming and going to multiple properties. This is something very valuable, for instance when there are children in a group and the adults wish to spend a little time together after the kids have gone to sleep. Since we don't charge any more for having more people stay, the property also represents tremendous value! To provide beds for the same number of people in a hotel would cost several times the price. At the same time the design is such that smaller groups or couples can rent and enjoy their individual quarters without fear of having their privacy intruded on by other guests nor of having theirs intruded upon. The unique architecture and layout provide unparalleled flexibility.

Languages:

English, French, Spanish
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