I took a last minute trip to Costa Rica in August. The first two days I stayed in the city San Jose near the airport. I visited the very modern City Mall and toured the city. We then drove two hours to the town of La Fortuna which is located below Arenal Volcano to start our adventure! La Fortuna had many choices for fun and relaxation.
Our first stop was La Fortuna Waterfall, what a beauty to behold! It is a 230 foot waterfall that shoots out of a tall cliff into a natural pool below. It was surrounded by a lush forest. I could have spent the entire day there. To explore all of its beauty you had to walk down and then back up 500 steps! But it was worth every heavy breath. You may even see some wildlife. For $20 admission per person you will get your money's worth and more.
Once you reach the bottom it is very busy with tourist and locals enjoying the beauty by swimming in the water or just relaxing. I had to put my feet into the water which was cold at the beginning but soothing once I was in. I took many pictures but it does no justice to the real thing. A must see if you are traveling to Costa Rica.
After the waterfall we went to look for something to eat and found the most unique restaurant - Chante Verde at the bottom of the hill leaving the entrance of the waterfall. Great fresh food, fresh squeezed fruit drinks, relaxing atmosphere and wonderful staff. Whether you eat meat or not like myself you will find something that is delicious. That night we ate at a highly recommended restaurant - Snapper House. Great service and amazing food, did not disappoint.
The next day we took a coffee and chocolate tour by Northfields. It was very informative and we were able to sample the process, see and taste the local coffee and chocolate.
To continue our adventure we took a day tour to Mistico Park - Arenal Hanging Bridges & Park. I had to let go of my fear of heights and enjoy the sights. We were right in the rainforest and saw much wildlife. In the park there are 14 bridges, with 6 of them being hanging bridges of different heights and lengths. Having a guide from Canoa Aventura Tour Operators was extremely helpful because we were able to see things that we would have missed on our own.
To end our time in La Fortuna we spent the day at Baldi Hot Springs to enjoy some rest and relaxation. It is a hot springs resort that has 25 different thermal pools. The Arenal Volcano is in its backdrop. We spent the day exploring each and every pool, had the optional lunch and dinner and ended the stay with an optional spa massage.
Thank you Costa Rica for the adventure!
