Staying at the Hotel Royal Corin in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

An amazing view to wake up to.

I knew right away that I’d made a good choice of hotel in La Fortuna when the van pulled up to the entrance and I was immediately greeted with a smile and a fizzy mock-tail of delicious tropical juices, while someone took my bags. “Welcome to the Royal Corin Miss Hogan.”

The Hotel Royal Corin sits less than a mile from the base of the Arenal Volcano – one of the world’s most active volcanoes until 2010 – and boasts its own private hot springs. Each of their 54 rooms has a stunning view of the volcano. If you’re looking to relax in a thermal pool after a day of adventure and want to steer clear of the crowds of Baldi or Tabacón this is the spot for you. There are three main pools and about eight smaller tubs of varying temperatures scattered throughout.

Standard room and a master suite. Photos: royalcorin.com

The Royal Corin gets the big things right with rooms that are spacious and spotlessly clean but it was the little details that continued to surprise me during my stay. Animals made from towels maybe aren’t that unique but they still made me smile. The plate of cookies left in my room each evening was especially delightful. The pull-out clothes line in the shower was really useful for hanging up my bikini after a dip in the pools. And speaking of showers…wow! On top of the standard overhead spray there were also a line of massaging jets running down the wall and an in-shower radio. They may want to put down some adhesive ducks though because a roomy shower and Latin music is a dangerous combination when the rhythm moves you mid-lather.

By my second morning the restaurant host knew me when I came down for breakfast. Although they seemed a bit perplexed by a solo guest, I never felt out of place. Breakfast is included with all rooms and it’s fantastic, with the buffet changing up slightly each day. The Royal Corin is responsible for my new found love affair with fried plantains. Between the breakfast candy that were the plantains, the juicy fresh pineapple, flaky buttery croissants and the life-changing coffee that was served ever so thoughtfully with warmed milk to keep it from going cold, they almost had to pry me away from the restaurant to get to any of my activities.

Every room has a volcano view. Photo: royalcorin.com

I tried to check out their 5th floor Lava Bar but each time I dropped by, it was empty. I was traveling near the end of the high season so maybe this had something to do with it. Despite the fact that there is still tons of reasons to visit, I think tourism in the area has slacked off since Arenal has stopped its nightly lava show. The front desk staff are more than happy to tell you about all the activities available in the area and will make arrangements for you. Being able to charge it to your room means it couldn’t be simpler.

If you’re traveling to La Fortuna and want to feel relaxed and pampered, the staff at the Hotel Royal Corin will treat you well.

Fact Sheet

• Where: La Fortuna de San Carlos, Costa Rica
• How much: Standard rooms start at $175 USD, junior suites start at $220, and master suites at $238.
• Number of rooms: 54
• Amenities: free wifi, thermal hot springs, restaurant, included buffet breakfast, three bars, spa
• Rating: Trip Advisor 4 stars, Traveler’s Choice 2012: Luxury, Trendiest, Relaxation & Spa
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