Tabacón Hot Springs Resort & Spa is named Costa Rica's leading resort. On my visit, I enjoyed a day relaxing in the hot springs and received a Volcanic Stone Massage.
The Resort: While I did not have the opportunity to spend the night at the resort, I can only imagine what a great stay it would make. The resort is nestled just by the Volcano Arenal and offers 95 rooms and 11 suites, furnished by handcrafted pieces from local artists, with incredible views. Rooms are air-conditioned (this is rare!) and offer the standard U.S. amenities that are hard to find in Costa Rica: cable TV, safety box, coffeemaker, and room service. Suites include a personal Jacuzzi on a private balcony. All resort guests have free unlimited access to the hot springs.
The Hot Springs: Visiting the hot springs is somewhat like finding yourself in paradise. The springs are naturally heated from the nearby Tabacón River, which is heated by the still active Volcano Arenal. The springs run through a maze of well maintained lush gardens. Visitors to the resort are provided with towels, and there is a changing/locker room to store belongings. While there is one regular pool with a swim-up bar, most guests enjoy wandering through the gardens along the paved path to explore the maze of springs. The floor of the springs consists of authentic lava rock and springs have varying temperatures based on their proximity to the Tabacón River. Bars are located throughout the springs for guests to enjoy exotic cocktails while relaxing in the water.
The Spa: During my visit to the hot springs, I chose to visit the Iskandria Spa. I received a Volcanic Stone Massage that lasted about 80 minutes. My massage was great! My massage room was serene and had an open window to the forest and waterfall. The masseuse used hot volcanic stones during the massage, which are supposed to improve your physical and emotional balance. At the end, I was allowed to lie in the room listening to the water for as long as I liked. It was very relaxing and I highly recommend enjoying one of their therapies during your visit. The staff is friendly and allows you to choose whether you want your therapy done by a male or female. Reservations are a must! My massage cost about the equivalent of $80, and was well worth it, and really, where else can you have an authentic Volcanic Stone Massage?
Tip: If you're driving it is highly recommended that you visit during the day and leave before it gets dark because the area experiences heavy fog during the green season (May-Nov). If you get lost call the resort at (506)460-2020. For reservations and inquiries the toll free number is (877) 277-8291.
Call center hours: Mon-Thur 8am-6pm, Fri 8am-5pm (Eastern Time).
To find out more, get exact rates and to see an array of pictures visit the website at www.tabacon.com.