Find all hotels by Independent in Upala from SAR 178

"Blue River Resort & Hot Springs is a gem of a location. The roads in and out are a nightmare to drive in but the location itself is an idyllic oasis. We decided to stay here as part of our "Pure Vida exploration trip" because we knew we wanted to go see the Cathedral Waterfall (El Santuario). Blue River is ideally located for that purpose and was the main reason we initially booked it. It was never part of the plan to stay there but we are so glad we did. We never intended to make use of all their amenities but after hearing about them upon arrival we booked an additional day so we could get the full experience since our first day we arrived at night. We enjoyed the natural saunas (enjoying the company of some bats), lathered ourselves in the volcanic mud and then relaxed in the multiple hot springs and fresh water pools they have on site. Saw some cool birds at the bird lake, visited the miniature horses and donkeys and the peacocks they have. The staff were great and food was good (would recommend the Casado for lunch everytime). But by far the best part was the tour we booked with Geovany to see the El Santuario. He went above and beyond and took us on an awesome tour of that amazing waterfall. He made sure we had a safe trip and saw to it that we enjoyed ourselves. He had a wealth of knowledge about the environment/animals in the area and even managed to find us an elusive sloth my wife badly wanted to see. Would highly recommend taking the tour with Geovany. "

"We loved our stay at this rustic location. Awesome authentic breakfast and very accommodating and informative hostess, Yocky. For travellers expecting luxury and air conditioning, this is not that experience. It is rural (some dodgy roads to get there), and basic but clean and well maintained cabins. Good hiking in the area. "

"We enjoyed our stay at the Lake Arenal Brewery. Dinner and breakfast were great, the facilities were comfortable and the staff was helpful."

"Great view and a fun area. Chef was good and feels like staying right in the rainforest "

"We arrived to breathtaking views of Lake Arenal and the volcano. Over the next couple of days we savored delicious varied breakfasts and a German cuisine inspired dinner that was prepared and customized to accommodate our dietary restrictions. All of us enjoyed visiting the hot tub daily. The library was well utilized during our stay. So many genres of books for our varied interests! We strolled through the gardens, admiring the many tropical plants and flowers and even saw toucans both mornings. The kitchen is very well equipped, and the beds were comfortable. This is an amazing, large yet cozy property with hosts that make us feel that this is our home away from home! We can’t wait to return!"

"Amazing place!!! Amazing people. Highlight of our trip to Costa Rica. "

"The place was absolutely beautiful and very comfortable! "

"This is a very property and the staff is excellent. We enjoyed our stay and the river tubing was a lot of fun. I would recommend it."

"We had a wonderful stay, family of 5. We enjoyed the wellness walk and all of the beautiful landscaping and foliage that attracts the nature that surrounds you. Make sure you get to the 10 spot to enjoy the ancient tree. We loved having coffee on the deck around the master upstairs, watching birds of every color and type, we even saw toucan and green parrots in the tree. Has binoculars available also. Had everything we needed including bottled jugs of water when first getting to the property. The road is blacktopped getting there if you are coming from Liberia, take 1 and then 142, go down to Tilaran and then back up has best roads. Not as many restaurants open for dinner nearby, like in La Fortuna, but had good food. This place is a tropical escape you shouldn’t miss. "