Posada Rural Río Celeste

We really enjoyed the posada, though getting around Rio Celeste needs some planning. The town is tiny, taxis cost surprisingly much for the distance, and leaving the area can be another challenge. We tried walking to the national park, realized that wasn't a good plan, and ended up hitchhiking; someone picked us up quickly and it saved us a decent amount. We arrived by bus from La Fortuna, and the driver kindly left us right at the door. The welcome was warm, the grounds were lovely and well kept, and the layout was tidy and inviting. Our room was spacious and spotless, with a private covered patio. The bathroom was roomy, with a larger-than-average shower, proper hot water and decent pressure, which isn't always a given in Costa Rica. The AC worked perfectly. The manager even drove us to a local restaurant when torrential rain made walking impossible, which we really appreciated. I'd stay at the posada again without hesitation, but would sort out transport in advance.

The best part was the owner's tour of his garden and farm. He knew so much about all the plants and kindly explained them while letting us taste a range of fruits. That garden also explained the excellent breakfast, made with its fruit. We stayed at Posada Rural Rio Celeste for two nights to visit the Nationalpark, just 6 km from the entrance, so we could get there early, which I definitely recommend. The accommodation was basic but nice and had everything we needed. The green garden around the hut was a little paradise, with flowers, fruit trees, and a lovely terrace for sitting outside.

The breakfast was enormous and delicious. The owner concierge was always pleasant and helpful. It's a lovely little hotel, with separate rooms and full bathrooms, set on gorgeous grounds where orchids hang from most trees. It's about a 10-minute drive from the Rio Celeste park entrance, and the drive to the hotel offers incredible views of Arenal when the weather allows.

Marvin was a great host, and we had a good time here. It felt like an authentic Costa Rican stay, with a toucan amusingly eating from their banana trees. Just check the pictures and know what you're booking: it's a rustic rural farm with few amenities. I was almost disappointed they had WiFi.