Hotels in El Castillo

Where Volcanoes Embrace the Sky: Discover El Castillo's Untamed Beauty

Nestled in the lush landscapes of Alajuela Province, El Castillo is a hidden gem in Costa Rica, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Surrounded by the breathtaking views of mountains and the majestic Arenal Volcano, this charming destination is ideal for nature lovers and eco-enthusiasts. Explore the nearby national parks teeming with wildlife, or unwind along the serene shores of Lake Arenal. With its off-the-beaten-path allure, El Castillo invites travelers to discover its rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and stunning vistas, making it an unforgettable retreat in the heart of Costa Rica. For the best hotel rates in El Castillo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in El Castillo

Some of the best places to stay in El Castillo are La Fortuna and Monterrey. La Fortuna is a fantastic destination for travelers, known for its breathtaking Arenal Volcano, lush rainforests, and hot springs. Monterrey offers a quieter, charming atmosphere with beautiful landscapes. Both areas feature a range of accommodations, from comfortable hotels with balcony suites to boutique hotels that provide a unique experience. For first-time visitors, La Fortuna is ideal due to its abundance of attractions and activities, making it the perfect base for exploration. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in El Castillo:

1. La FortunaOpens in a new window: La Fortuna is a vibrant destination ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and access to the famous Tabacon Hot Springs. This area is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and ziplining. For a luxurious stay, consider Nayara Springs - Adults onlyOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel with natural hot springs and adventure sports right onsite. Another great option is The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that not only features hot springs but also offers romantic experiences and wellness amenities. For those seeking a resort atmosphere, Tabacón Thermal Resort & SpaOpens in a new window is another 4.5-star choice, perfect for business travelers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
2. MonterreyOpens in a new window: Monterrey is a gateway to outdoor adventures, showcasing the majestic Arenal Volcano and the relaxing Tabacon Hot Springs. This area is known for its breathtaking scenery and is a haven for thrill-seekers. The Springs Resort and Spa at ArenalOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star resort, boasts natural hot springs and a range of adventure sports nearby. Additionally, Hideaway Rio CelesteOpens in a new window offers a family-friendly environment with various activities for children and adults alike. For business travelers, Origins LodgeOpens in a new window provides the necessary amenities while ensuring a comfortable stay.

Things to do in El Castillo for first time

El Castillo is a captivating destination perfect for a three-day getaway, boasting stunning landscapes of mountains, lush forests, and serene beaches. Visitors can enjoy adventure activities like ziplining and hiking, along with opportunities for boating and sea diving, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to El Castillo:

• Day 1: Begin your Costa Rican adventure at Arenal Volcano National Park, where you can marvel at the towering volcano and explore its diverse ecosystems. After a morning of hiking, head over to Chato Volcano, known for its serene surroundings and stunning crater lake. Wrap up your day at La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking views.
• Day 2: Start your morning by exploring the majestic Arenal Volcano, taking in its beauty and lush landscapes. Next, get your adrenaline pumping at Arenal Adventure World, where you can engage in activities like zip-lining and horseback riding. In the afternoon, trek to Cerro Chato Lake for a tranquil experience surrounded by nature, where you can hike to the lake and unwind in its peaceful ambiance.
• Day 3: Indulge in a luxurious experience at Tabacon Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural thermal waters amidst beautiful gardens. After a relaxing morning, head to Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, renowned for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking views. Finally, visit the Monteverde Orchid Garden, where you can discover a stunning variety of orchids and learn about their unique ecosystems before concluding your exciting journey.

5 tips to find a great El Castillo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to visit El Castillo on a budget, the most affordable months are January, February, and October, when hotel prices drop significantly. To truly enjoy the area and explore its main attractions, it’s best to plan for at least 2-3 days. While in El Castillo, you can discover stunning volcanoes, breathtaking mountains, and beautiful beaches, all of which offer great value for money and a memorable experience.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to El Castillo, check out Hotels.com for potential savings. Navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and special promotions, increasing your chances of snagging a great deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the season. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in El Castillo.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in El Castillo and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

Best time to go to El Castillo

El Castillo experiences its lowest average temperature in November, at 78.3°F (25.7°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.2°F (27.9°C). October is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in El Castillo, January to March are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, August to October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.