Explore
Reviews
226 total reviews
91% rated 5★
226 reviews
4.85
2018–2026
Cleanliness 4.8
Accuracy 4.8
Communication 4.9
Location 5.0
Check-in 4.9
Value 4.8
226 reviews
Andy
Excellent, 2 months ago
Our extended family of 12 stayed here for a week, a group from 8 - 80, and this place was perfect for all. Ron and Christine, the owners, live in the nearby building and were so friendly and helpful throughout our stay. We managed to visit waterfalls, the hanging bridges, went zip-lining and kayaking on the lake amongst other trips.. We all had a fantastic time and Pie in the Sky was absolutely beautiful. I would say a car is necessary to get about and you may get caught in a shower or two particularly if you're there in rainy season like us but even in the rain the view is stunning. Highly recommend.
Mary
Excellent, 2 months ago
The place we rented in el Castillo was beautiful. The views of the lake and the volcano were spectacular. Ron was a wonderful host. He recommended several restaurants, and all of them had delicious food. The house was near many fun things to do: rappelling down waterfalls, zip lining, hiking, a butterfly conservatory, and swinging on a rope into a river. We were a family of ten, ages from 4 to 78 with twin 20 year olds. Everyone had a great time swimming in the pool and enjoying the hot tub.
Charles Henry
Not good, 3 months ago
The location is stunning and the home was once beautiful I’m sure but it is very much is need of maintenance, missing tiles around the pool, trip hazzards due to missing paving stones, dirty windows, burnt cookers. The main issue for us was the mould in the property and the very distinct smell of it, the sofa was very clearly covered in mould stains as the curtains were. There was no mention of the owners living on site in the listing and as nice as they are this is not what we booked and had we known we wouldn’t have booked as that’s not what we wanted. If the home was free of mould, tidied up and the damp issue sorted it would be wonderful as the location is stunning and the house itself is very roomy and quirky. We loved watcher the dog too.
Izabela
Excellent, 3 months ago
This place is heaven on earth! We loved everything about it! I hope we get a chance to go back again! Would highly recommend to our friends.
Cinthya
Excellent, 3 months ago
The place is beautiful and I recommend it for people with the right footwear who are not children or seniors. It is super spacious and beautiful, just like the photos, but very unsafe on rainy days. The floors at the entrance and between outdoor common areas are not made with non-slip materials. My dad fell getting into the car at the main entrance and broke his fibula. The health service in La Fortuna is not good, and they operated on him in San José. My sister also fell on the way to the Jacuzzi. I insist, I recommend it, with the right footwear
Scott
Excellent, 3 months ago
Incredible peaceful property with incredible views! If you area a birder there will be no need to leave their viewing platform! Saw over 40 species in one morning! Local restaurant Fusion is walking distance and very good. Kitchen is a bit fully stocked but has the basics Be ready for the steep curvy driveway. Just take your time and it’s not too bad
Wendy
Excellent, 4 months ago
We loved our stay at Serenity House! The views of the volcano were incredible, and the peaceful setting was exactly what we were looking for. Every morning we woke up to birds singing, and every evening we enjoyed watching the fireflies from the porch. The house was spotless, well-equipped, and the beds were very comfortable. We chose this location because we wanted to be away from the crowds, and it was perfect for our family. Agustin was a wonderful host who responded quickly and gave us great restaurant recommendations. We especially enjoyed Phoenix and Fusion Arenal Mirador. The drive to La Fortuna was easy, so we could explore during the day and return to a quiet, relaxing home each evening. We would definitely stay at Serenity House again.
Pablo
Excellent, 5 months ago
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful home overlooking Lago Arenal and Arenal Volcano. The views were absolutely stunning, and we felt lucky to experience some of the local wildlife—we heard howler monkeys, had a small monkey come to visit, and saw toucans, macaws, and many other colorful birds. The house was spacious, with five large bedrooms and five bathrooms, which gave everyone plenty of room and privacy. Everything was comfortable and well suited for a relaxing getaway. The host was also very friendly and welcoming. We would happily stay here again.
Amy
Excellent, 6 months ago
The views were absolutely stunning and the gardens and plants surrounding was exactly what we wanted. Owners were kind and very friendly and explained all the work of plants and animals around their property that they deeply care for. We used the out door table area all day everyday as the property and views were why we chose this property and location. We laughed and learned from our interactions with the owners and found our selves in awe as we took in the panoramic views from the look out tower. Local spots like the hot springs and rope swing were highlights of our time away from the property.
Michael
Excellent, 6 months ago
Loved it, breathtaking views that show Gods creation!
Nicole
Excellent, 7 months ago
If you want amazing views, you need to stay at pie in thr sky! only 30 minutes from activities in la fortuna and a beautiful property to enjoy. We fully enjoyed the pool, hot tub, outdoor sitting area and the look out tower to view birds. fantastic place to stay!
Véronique
Excellent, 7 months ago
We absolutely loved this house with a view of the volcano! It was very comfortable.
Stefan
Excellent, 7 months ago
Pie in the Sky is an outstanding property. The exclusive hilltop location overlooking the lake and volcano is breathtaking. The house itself is almost luxurious; with 9 of us in the 5 bedrooms, we felt more than comfortable during our 3-day stay. As is well known, there is also plenty to see and visit in the area; the scenery and wildlife are simply fantastic. I would recommend the place to friends and acquaintances at any time and would be happy to stay here again on my next visit to Costa Rica.
Igor
Good, 7 months ago
The house has lots of room, with very large bedrooms. The location is very serene and private, with great view of the lake and volcano. The grounds are beautifully landscaped. The biggest drawback is the road leading up to the house. It's much worse than typical dirt roads you find in CR. Lots of potholes, deep ruts, exposed rocks, and mud after the rain. We didn't want to drive up and down any more than absolutely necessary. Made it impossible to clean up after hiking or activities before going to dinner. The other problem is that it's very humid int he house because you're still in the rain forrest, so the place has a musty smell and everything takes forever to dry out. It's very windy, so you don't really need AC for temperature control, but would have been nice to keep humidity down.
Camilla
Excellent, 8 months ago
Lovely place in very beautiful surroundings.
Mathieu
Excellent, 9 months ago
Amazing place, great host, superb view. We were 13 in the main place, and we all loved it. Our hosts were on site, helped us grealty with advices and were just a delight to chat with. Highly recommand!
Valerie
Excellent, 9 months ago
The house and setting are beautiful! It is a heck of a road to get up but it was well worth it for the view and privacy. Not having a washer and dryer was a minor inconvenience for us but there is a laundry service we could have taken advantage of if we were better organized. All in all we loved our stay and would absolutely recommend and stay there again! The Phoenix restaurant down the road is wonderful and so nice to have a dinner option so close to the house!
Tj
Excellent, 9 months ago
Even better than expected. Perfect views and photo ops.
Bryan
Excellent, 10 months ago
Amazing home with magical and peaceful views. Exactly what we expected and more!
Cindy
Excellent, 11 months ago
We had a wonderful time, we plan on recommending staying here. The manager and the owner were very helpful. The property is beautiful, we spent a lot of time outdoors watching the birds and wildlife, eating breakfast in the gazebo and playing games after dinner there.
Jeremy
Good, 11 months ago
A really beautiful and private place. You feel like a local and get to enjoy the surroundings. We saw many toucans and amazing wildlife from the back porch. The property could be cleaner and better equipped with certain items in the kitchen. It was not a problem for us but could be problematic if folks are not expecting a rural experience. Overall a great place , it just needed some better cleaning and ant control.
Jill
Good, 11 months ago
Everyone was correct about the location and view - amazing. The house felt very dated and the sheets and pillows all smelled like mildew from too much moisture. We knew it was a shared property but the owner was directly under us and was around all the time. Felt weird for an Airbnb. One night he had his music playing so loud we had to ask HIM to turn it down at 1am. We like to party too but had a super early flight the next morning. But overall the view was amazing.
Gretell
Excellent, 1 year ago
We had an amazing time at this place! Loved that the sunrise hit the master bedroom and you could wake up to birds singing. The pictures were exactly what we got and the host worked with us to get us there after hours. Loved every second of it!
Duong
Excellent, 1 year ago
This is the dream ecolodge! Great view of the Arenal Volcano. Very good location, 35 min from La Fortuna, 10 min from Sky Adventures and Lilanders Horses. Amenities: pool, spa, outdoor dining and even a bird-watching tower as a bonus! The host was very friendly and responded quickly to our requests. The only downside: there was no storage for our groceries.
Katie
Excellent, 1 year ago
This property was heaven on earth. Absolutely stunning views, even when it was overcast. The grounds were beautiful. We loved having access to the pool, hot tub, grill and covered outdoor seating area. Beds were cozy, plenty of towels for bathing and outdoor activities, well stocked kitchen. Several great restaurants nearby and an easy half hour drive into La Fortuna. We drove into town most days for our adventure excursions but it was always nice to come back to our own personal haven. Owners live on site, super friendly and helpful but were not intrusive. We loved our visits from their sweet pup. We rented based on a FB recommendation and we’re so happy we did. The management company was so helpful and responsive. We were thrilled with the laundry service they offered.
Steven
Excellent, 1 year ago
Wow, what a trip! Our group of six stayed at Pie in the Sky. The views of the volcano and lake right from the deck were just amazing—like something you’d see in a travel magazine with the layered mountain views, lake, and volcano. If you’re up early, around 6 AM, the place is alive with wildlife. We saw toucans (those big, colorful beak birds) plus tons of other bright birds flying around. The jungle sounds were so cool, like we were in a nature show. you can hear the monkeys chatting, but we didn't see them at the house, but they were there. we did see them at the volcano. There was wildlife everywhere at the house. The house was perfect for our family of six. It was roomy, super clean, and had everything we needed to feel at home. The pool and jacuzzi were a huge hit, especially with the kids after a day of exploring. The host / rental service were awesome, giving us great tips on fun stuff to do nearby.
Herry
Excellent, 1 year ago
Great place... Very nice spectacular views
Claire
Excellent, 1 year ago
Our stay at Serenity was magical. The house is beautiful, with plenty of space for our party of 5. The bedrooms are nicely spread out and having a bathroom for each was perfect. However, we spent most of our time on the back porch with the volcano view - it’s just spectacular. Perfect for drinking morning coffee or relaxing after a long day adventure. The host was great - the welcome center was easy to find and check in was smooth. Every activity we wanted to do was within a 30 minute drive - hot springs, zip lining, sloth sighting and hiking the Arenal volcano. Kids loved the pool - it wasn’t always quite warm enough to use it - but when we did it added to the great setting! Small market at the bottom of the hill had some grocery essentials - which was so convenient! You definitely need a 4 wheel drive to get up the hill and try to arrive before it’s dark the first time you make the drive!
Jennifer
Excellent, 1 year ago
Book this place! The value is incredible! We booked both Pie in the Sky 2 and 3. Augustin accommodated our late check in, and Ron was such a gracious host in every way! The property is even more beautiful in person. The A/C works great in every room and the place was very clean. The gardens and views are breathtaking. We enjoyed mornings and sunsets from the bird's nest tower. The pool and hot tub are a destination in themselves- we loved the pool waterfall and the sitting ledge around the pool. It's within minutes of several attractions and walkable to Arenal Water Sports at the lake and only 20 minutes from La Fortuna. Several very affordable restaurants are close by. Our favorite was La Ventanita. Thank you, Ron, for such a wonderful stay!
Anand
Good, 1 year ago
Absolutely stunning views of Arenal and the lake — truly a birdwatcher’s paradise. The beauty of this location is hard to put into words! A few things to note: access involves about 15 minutes of off-road driving, so a 4WD vehicle is a must. The property managers were great and guided us through the final stretch, which we couldn't have navigated alone. I do not recommend reaching this location in the night on your first day of the trip. Power went out around 1 AM and returned by 8–9 AM on one of the nights, though this was a town-wide issue, not specific to the property. Thankfully, the cool mountain air made it manageable. Due to the remote location, we planned our day to minimize trips in and out. This is an amazing place for those seeking nature, seclusion, and scenery. I'd definitely return — just not with very young kids or elderly parents, as the terrain can be a bit challenging
Rafael
Excellent, 1 year ago
We had the most incredible stay at this property in Costa Rica! My wife, our three young kids, and I were blown away by everything this place had to offer. From the moment we arrived, we knew we were in for something special. The views from the property were absolutely breathtaking — we could see the majestic Arenal Volcano, the surrounding mountains, and the serene Arenal Lake all from our windows and the spacious outdoor areas. It truly felt like we were staying in the heart of nature. Every morning, we woke up to these stunning vistas and felt so lucky to be there. The house itself was perfect for our family. It was spacious, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed with families in mind. The kids had plenty of room to run around and explore, and the house had all the amenities we needed. The outdoor space was perfect for relaxing after a day of adventures, and the kids especially loved the pool, which provided hours of fun while looking at the beautiful birds. Thanks for this trip
Aly
Excellent, 1 year ago
Absolutely gorgeous! Spacious, A/C units in every room, plenty of kitchen amenities. Beautiful view.
Katy
Good, 1 year ago
The views of the volcano were amazing. We loved having coffee each morning on the porch. The check in was easy and worked with us when we got in later than planned from a flat tire. There are a couple restaurants just down the street fusión and la ventanita that were very good and we my daughter loved the butterfly conservatory.
Martino
OK, 1 year ago
The pool was broken the entire stay. We would try to fill it and it would drain out faster than we could fill it. Host was very responsive but not effective in solving the problem. While filling the pool, entire home has zero water pressure - no showers or flushable toilets. The location is amazing, the birds and songs they sing are heavenly. Majestic vultures flying overhead give a certain fun factor to the experience. The lack of a pool (or a working water feature) did detract heavily from the experience. Almost 4 hour drive from San Jose and a 4x4 required, not suggested, to get to the home.
Host Response
Sincere apologies for the inconveniences. After you left we were able to look deeper and after digging all around the pool, we found that one of the pipes that was buried was cracked. We fix it and now the pool is working perfectly. Again, apologies for the troubles, we hope that you can visit us again in the near future and enjoy the swimming pool.
Sam
Excellent, 1 year ago
Great views’
Rikki
Excellent, 1 year ago
The serenity house was spectacular. The view was amazing, the setting was incredibly peaceful, and the local restaurants were wonderful. We would definitely stay here again!
Lewis
Excellent, 1 year ago
This place was a life savor. We had a terrible stay at another BnB and the host made a last minute accommodation to get us in. The views were stunning! Note: there are a few places bugs from outside can easily get inside (under main door, holes in screens etc) the host promptly came out the next day to fix the screens that had separated from the frame (4-5 panels). The main bedroom had no curtains or shades- be aware that it is very visible/exposed to the outside and very bright in the morning. They did unexpectedly send cleaning services (while they thought we were gone) since our stay was longer than 3 days. Since it was listed at $15 a day we had no idea they’d do this and it was a big surprise when they just walked in the front door. The host apologized several times for this. Overall even with the issues, the flexibility of the host, beautiful location, and attentiveness to concerns made this a 5 star experience.
Michael
Excellent, 1 year ago
The experience and views are even better than the description. The owner is very cordial and went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed. The rental management company was super helpful and friendly too. The entire property was well maintained, very clean, and had all the amenities we could have hoped for.
Witt
Excellent, 1 year ago
Unbelievable views. Such a cool house. We saw toucans, green parrots, tons of other wildlife from the back porch. Great breeze. Hope to come back sometime!
Dianne
Excellent, 1 year ago
Beautiful view, quiet and peaceful. Close to restaurants, bakery and small store. Very helpful property manager.
Josh
Excellent, 1 year ago
Ron the most gracious kind helpful host I had ever experienced and the place was second to none
Courtney
Excellent, 1 year ago
The team from the welcome center made this the best stay! They met us late and drove us up to the house. After a tour and instructions, they provided us with the house book that had tons of great local things to do. They booked us several last minute activities, some amazing massages at the end of a busy active day, and even helped when we were running late to a scheduled activity. The weather was rainy so we didn’t get the clear magnificent view or to really enjoy the pool, but it was still an amazing stay! There were so many hummingbirds in the pretty gardens. You do need a higher clearance vehicle because the road is rough to the house.
Chintan
Good, 1 year ago
The pie in the sky villa is an excellent location with breath taking view of the Arenal Lake and Volcano. The property grounds are amazing and manicured perfectly with lots of trees and flower bushes and gardens. However - the place has a strong moldy odor that does not go away and that subtracted from the experience.
Kimberly
Excellent, 1 year ago
Gorgeous view and home! We felt right at home here!!
Sarah
Excellent, 1 year ago
I couldn’t imagine a better view than we had! The common spaces were beautiful and well stocked kitchen so we could make a family dinner our last evening.
Micha
Good, 1 year ago
We stayed here with 9 people total including 3 small children. The views were absolutely incredible, a front row view of the volcano! The property was very quiet and peaceful with stunning landscapes, trees and flowers. Very well maintained too. Something to note if you are traveling there with babies: the pack n play was broken, and be mindful of slipping and falling esp. after it rains. The bedding was old and drab and not comfortable but overall we had a nice time exploring the Arenal area. Thank you for hosting.
Debbie
Excellent, 1 year ago
Pie in the Sky felt like we were in a fantasy world. The views seemed honestly too beautiful to be real. The pool and large jacuzzi, the lookouts, it was spectacular. Wonderful restaurants so close, out young adults loved just hanging out at the pool and jacuzzi, watching birds, laughing. It was so beautiful we even cancelled one of the planned excursions because no one wanted to leave. Alejandro was wonderful - made sure we got settled in and was available for any questions. We'd go back in a heartbeat.
M
Excellent, 1 year ago
Amazing location , views second to none . Close to La Fortuna and lots to do. Some outdoor lounge furniture for larger groups would be a bonus but definitely not complaining.
Jessica
Excellent, 1 year ago
All I can say is WOW!! The pictures don't do it justice!! This was such a quiet piece of paradise. The animals and birds waking up with us, the views, the tranquility, we didn't stay long enough! Augustin was so helpful arranging transportation for us and giving us travel advice where needed. The pool and hot tub were amazing- it was all simply perfect. We hope to be back very soon!! Pura vida!! Very nice meeting you Augustin and Ron!!
Ross
Excellent, 1 year ago
Great location and view. Glad we had a 4WD for the roads. Highly recommend staying here and the Phoenix restaurant nearby was excellent.
Joaquin
Excellent, 2 years ago
Super nice spot with outstanding views of the Arenal Volcano and lake. The house felt very warm and nice for a 11 people and hold up to 15 easily. The area is great to relax and great activities in the area.
Kristen
Excellent, 2 years ago
Wow, this truly was one of the most magical places we have ever stayed in all of our travels. We arrived at night and the host met us in the rain to help us get situated. We woke up early to incredible sweeping views of Arenal Volcano and the beautiful countryside and lake surrounding it. It truly took our breath away. We had two families staying on the property, and everyone was delighted. There is a lookout tower with a spotting scope and binoculars to scope out wildlife, and the kids loved swimming in the pool and hot tub. The peacefulness is abundant here. The grounds are well maintained and beautiful. The house was clean and looks just like the pictures. The road up to the house is steep and the roads around the area aren’t the best- I recommend a SUV if possible. Lots of potholes on main road. The host was responsive and kind. Our only regret is not staying longer- there is so much to do around the area and La Fortuna. It’s worth the extra 25 min drive to Pie in the Sky!
Amy
Excellent, 2 years ago
This home was everything we were hoping for. The property was beautiful and so well taken care of. The sunrises on the back deck were incredible. The house was so clean. We meet the owner and he was really nice to chat with. Erika was so helpful checking us in. We were running a little late and she stayed and waited for us. I would recommend this home to everyone!
Patrick
Excellent, 2 years ago
5 star bnb! great views from the pool and an abundance of wildlife no matter the time of day
Ty
Excellent, 2 years ago
The property is beautiful and huge! The views are amazing! We were lucky to have a sunny day in the rainy season when we took lots of great pictures outside with the Arenal Volcano in the background. I would recommend adding an air conditioner to the living room/kitchen area, and updating the lighting and fans to make the house more comfortable and even better for customers. Overall, our family had a great stay and loved the property. We would stay here again.
Thomas
Excellent, 2 years ago
Beautiful location
Brooke
Good, 2 years ago
Pie in the Sky was absolutely stunning and Augustin was an amazing and responsive host. Unfortunately, we did have to deal with a couple mudslides while we were there that blocked the path for our car to get to the house so we had to make the trek up the hill as a large group with children. Although this was not ideal, it was no fault of the host or the house. When the town lost power, Augustin walked up through the mudslides to turn on our back up generator, and we were extremely grateful for that. He was also incredibly helpful in making reservations for zip lining and white water rafting and communicating with our activity guides as well. He also made several delicious restaurant recommendations. The views from the home could not be beat, it was clean and peaceful, the pool and hot tub were very nice as well. Overall, our stay was amazing and we would definitely recommend. Just cross fingers for no mudslides 😜
Katie
Excellent, 2 years ago
LIKE A DREAM Breathtaking views, plenty of space, within 30 min of multiple activities - this house is a win win. We visited in June & had the entire property to ourselves & it was magical. Could hear monkeys, see multiple varieties of birds & take in the incredible scenery. 100% would go again. The property manager is so gracious, our flight was delayed in Houston & we arrived 4 hours later than anticipated. He met us late in the evening & stayed in communication with us as needed. Tip: It's off the beaten path so buy ahead for groceries.
Kevin
Excellent, 2 years ago
The views from this property are stunning. The wrap-around porch and the Eagle's Nest observation deck give you beauty in every direction. If you want a place that provides peace and pleasant surroundings, it would be hard to beat this Airbnb. It's got plenty of room for large groups. I must mention that Pie in the Sky is quite remote. Prepare for a drive on lots of narrow roads. The nearest town is La Fortuna, which is about 35 minutes away. There are very limited shopping options near the property. One final comment—this place is about the location. The property has probably hosted thousands of guests without many updates. The kitchen is minimalist in nature so plan to keep your meals simple.
Jake
Excellent, 2 years ago
Our stay at the Airbnb near La Fortuna was nothing short of spectacular. The owner’s hospitality shone through with their warm and accommodating nature, ensuring our comfort throughout the stay. The pool and hot tub were the highlights of our relaxation, providing an amazing experience as we soaked in the tranquility of Costa Rica. The air conditioning was a welcome respite from the tropical heat, keeping our nights comfortably cold and restful. A chef’s dream, the well-stocked kitchen had everything we needed to whip up delicious meals, adding a touch of home to our tropical getaway. For the nights we didn’t feel like cooking, Howlers down the road served up some of the best pizza we’ve had, a must-try for future guests. But perhaps the most breathtaking aspect was the incredible view. Waking up to the picturesque landscape of Costa Rica’s natural beauty was a daily delight. It’s a view that photos can hardly do justice.
Simon
Excellent, 2 years ago
Thank you very much for everything, we are fascinated with our stay, the house is excellent since the cleanliness and not to mention our view, we hope to be back soon ! 💝
Adam
Excellent, 2 years ago
This place was even more beautiful in person than it was online. Absolutely perfect for our two families with a total of nine people. The grounds are beautiful, the accommodations are spacious, everyone had their own bathroom, the pool, hot tub, eating area and decks were amazing. Can’t say enough good things about the place. One of the nicest places we stayed! A bit of a drive (20 minutes) to get to activities, but totally worth it!
Robyn
Excellent, 2 years ago
We absolutely loved our stay! The house was very spacious with great views. Lots of outdoor space, great pool and hot tub with a nice bbq space/outdoor eating area. We were 11 people and it was fantastic! Thank you to adding to our wonderful experience of travelling around Costa Rica - we will be back!
Pat
Excellent, 2 years ago
Actually the description is understated! It is a location beyond words. The scenery is stunning. The house is perfect. We came to bird watch and we’ve been around the world countless times and this location is the best we’ve encountered for birding. A rough count of 80 bird species seen. Toucans, parrots, tanagers, woodpeckers and many, many more that we saw while eating breakfast on the veranda or sipping wine in the afternoon. Pat and Mel
Alysha
Excellent, 2 years ago
Amazing views with great wildlife! We woke up everyday to birds sings and hauling monkeys. We ended up arriving late on our first night and were met by Agustin, he led us up the steep hill to the home. I would definitely recommend I vehicle higher off the ground such as an SUV. The hill going to the home is rough but 100% worth it!!!
Lynndi
Excellent, 2 years ago
Please see my other review as we rented all 3 houses on our trip. All 3 were wonderful and the grounds beautiful. We spent many of our days at the house because the pool area was so nice. The views and , the bird watching was wonderful. We will definitely return.
Karin
Excellent, 2 years ago
The villa is exceptional, the view of the vulcano is amazing!! My family loved it!
Douglas
Excellent, 2 years ago
Wow, what a beautiful house and location. We wanted privacy and an amazing view and were not disappointed. Read the accurate description carefully, you will need a 4WD vehicle as the road is very steep.
Abby
Excellent, 2 years ago
Our group of 12 was pleasantly surprised by this little gem! The views are spectacular and the atmosphere is tranquil. Kitchen is well stocked and bedrooms have a lot of linen. The welcome booklet was very appreciated and well used by our group. Highly recommend!
Emily
Excellent, 2 years ago
Definitely need a 4-wheel drive car! Pool is pretty chilly and that is not a hot tub, but the views make up for it! Owners/company were available at all hours for help.
Dana
Excellent, 2 years ago
An absolutely perfect place for our family. The view was beautiful and I loved waking up with a cup of coffee and sitting on the porch to watch the birds-so peaceful. Host was extremely helpful and planned a great few days of activities for us. Highly recommend this home!
Dorna
Excellent, 2 years ago
WOW! Just wow. We truly enjoyed our stay and our host was amazing! The house had everything we needed to be comfortable and to cook homemade meals. The view of Arenal Volcano is UNBELIEVABLE! 🌋 Just stunning. Such a treasure to wake up to every morning. We loved listening to the wildlife. Would absolutely recommend!
Annie
Excellent, 2 years ago
The house was spacious and clean, surrounded by greenery and looking over the lake and volcano. The location could not have been more serene and perfect. Agustin was very kind and attentive, and we very much enjoyed our stay!
Bianca
Excellent, 2 years ago
Such a beautiful home. So quiet and peaceful. We enjoyed out stay very much. Plenty of room for our family of 4. The morning views of the volcano were my favorite. Such a beautiful place
Sara
Good, 2 years ago
Spectacular view!!! Drive up to the house is a hard one but I would say it worth the view. Also no AC in the house but everything else was great. Augustin was super helpful and very accommodating. Overall very happy with our stay and would go back.
Mike
Excellent, 2 years ago
Can’t say enough positive things about this property. The close proximity of “Explore El Castillo” to La Fortuna and the activities our group were looking to do was very valuable to us. Additionally, this property was very very peaceful with livestock, copious bird species, and other wildlife ever present on the property. Many of us woke up early in the morning using binoculars to spectate the many beautiful birds that visited the property and gaze at the Arenal Lake & Volcano. Lastly, the honesty and integrity of this staff is unmatched. I left behind an envelope of some cash and the staff retrieved it and is working with me to get me a credit so I wont lose the funds. This is a quality that cannot be overlooked when booking a stay anywhere! Thank you again to all the staff and I look forward to returning to “Explore El Castillo” again one day!
Heather
Excellent, 3 years ago
Beautiful private villa overlooking lake Arenal and the volcano. We saw so many birds, including many types of hummingbirds, some toucans and some type of green macaw as well as other songbirds. The grounds are beautiful. There’s a lovely garden and also an overlook to do some birdwatching from. There’s a deep pool and hot tub as well as grill and outdoor seating. There are 4 bedrooms each with a bath plus an extra suite close but separate from the house. In this suite the bath is downstairs. Augustin was very helpful and the included info had great info. Definitely a beautiful property and area to explore. There are mini-split AV units in each bedroom. It wasn’t actually hot but nice to reduce the humidity a bit at night. There are several great restaurants within a few minutes and a small little market to get a few basics at the bottom of the hill (where we got snacks and breakfast foods). We did activities in La Fortuna but mostly ate in El Castillo. Definitely would return!
Martinus
Excellent, 3 years ago
We had a wonderful stay here. The stars at night from Pie in the Sky is a true wonder to behold and waking up and seeing the volcano out the window never seizes to amaze.
Brent
Excellent, 3 years ago
we had a great time. the propeis well maintained and perfect for relaxing and taking in the Vulcan. look forward to a large family trip for the entire property.
Morgan
Excellent, 3 years ago
el Castillo is about a 30 minute drive outside of la fortuna and to stay here is extremely worth it! Serenity is the only way to describe this place. Although we were a mess of a check in, getting a flat, and showing up extremely late. John made to sure to help us get in contact with someone that could. Even responding back to us around 12-1 am. He went above and beyond!! Any issue we had he helped solve immediately.
Eladio
Excellent, 3 years ago
Very good place is an incredible view of the volcano. The place is very natural in general, very good
Daniella
Excellent, 3 years ago
Our host was very responsive and helpful. The house was exactly as described, in fact the photos don’t do the view justice. Every morning we got up early to hear the dawn chorus and saw many birds. There is loads to do nearby and we enjoyed being away from the busier La fortuna. The road approaching the house is very pot holed and rough, definitely need 4WD. The phoenix restaurant is 10 mins walk and was amazing!
Kara
Excellent, 3 years ago
Beautiful and secluded- just make sure to bring a car that can make it up a steep hill! We especially loved the hot tub and breathtaking views.
Laura
Excellent, 3 years ago
we really enjoyed Pie in the Sky! the scenery was gorgeous, so many beautiful views and wildlife. The driveway is a bit steep but we never had an issue coming up or going down. Plenty of room for our party of 10, and the kitchen was well equipped. Agustine was so helpful in making reservations and even answering calls past his office hours to help us navigate any issues we might be having with transportation. We would highly recommend this rental to any family looking for a peaceful getaway!
Tasha
OK, 3 years ago
Serenity house has stunning views and lots of wildlife around. The amenities of the house itself are lacking, as the picture looks like there is a jacuzzi/hot tub but it is in fact a small, I heated pool which in La Fortuna it wasn’t hot enough to go swimming in a cold pool. The hot water in the showers was touch and go, and the information and tours provided by the hosts didn’t include names or locations so we had to drive all the way to the welcome center to get minimal information. The drive up to the house was unpaved dirt roads with lots of pot holes which was pretty scary at night. And the house itself was pretty dirty; dead bugs everywhere and black mold in the bathrooms. Although the views were stunning, I don’t think this place was worth how much it cost and I would not stay here again.
Ted
Excellent, 3 years ago
Second time we have stayed here, that should tell you something!!! The place is amazing!!!
Ajdin
Excellent, 3 years ago
Serene views, absolute privacy and a beautiful home. Waking up to view of the lake and volcano was really special and we would highly recommend the place!
Jeffrey
Excellent, 3 years ago
This is a very special place. The pictures cannot accurately portray the beauty of this location. It was an amazing place for us to do a family vacation with several children and adults. The management company that runs the place is amazing, very responsive, and their office is only five minutes away. There is so much to do in this area. Within 10 minutes of the house we were zip lining at Sky Asventures. Lake Arenal is only 5 minutes away. La Fortuna is about 25 minutes. Wonderful place
Neil And Christy
Repeat guest
Excellent, 3 years ago
This is our second time staying at the house. We picked it because of the central location to everything we like to do… Sky Trek, the hanging bridges, etc. There are a few restaurants at the bottom of the driveway that we enjoy, and we prefer to be away from the crowds of La Fortuna just a little bit. The view of Arenal is spectacular and my wife and I often see toucans fly by in the morning while we’re drinking coffee on the back deck.
Perry + Kristi
Excellent, 3 years ago
We loved our stay at this amazing property. The volcano view was unreal, and you can even enjoy it from the covered hot tub. There's ample seating inside and outside, and the beds and bedding were comfortable. Each room had a private door to the terrace and thick curtains if you want to avoid light from those early sunrises. The grounds are so well maintained. The staff was very attentive and responded to us quickly when we needed anything addressed. Short drive to La Fortuna and even shorter drive to Tabacon Thermal Hot Springs. Pizza at Howlers, right below the property, is a must (cash only).
Amy
Excellent, 3 years ago
Absolutely fantastic home. As many have said in previous reviews the photos do not do the property justice. Every morning started with sunrise at 5am and birds waking us from sleep ( most mornings the howler monkeys as well!). The master bedroom is all views and no curtains so keep that in mind if light is an issue for you ( I used a sleep mask and it was perfect). Wildlife was plenty and the pool was perfect. The location was private and away from the hustle and bustle yet close enough to run into town for excursions etc. the home was perfect for our family of 5. We would book again.
James
Good, 3 years ago
Out of the way, quiet, and beautiful. The views of Arenal are breathtaking. Morning birding is phenomenal. They recommend to use 4x4 truck - this is almost necessary. Very rocky, steep, road for 15 minutes to get to property. Property is fully fenced and gated and felt very safe. Warm in evenings without AC. Overall would highly recommend - just be prepared for rocky road and no AC. Excellent home and just what we were looking for!
Becky
Excellent, 3 years ago
Amazing place where you'll remember waking up to beautiful sunrises, birds singing and monkeys howling. Clean, peaceful, and that view.
Quinn
Terrible, 3 years ago
I booked this place because of its beautiful views of the Arenal volcano/landscape and that view really is stunning. Lots of bird life to see as well. Our issue was with the water at the house. We arrived in the evening and settled in for showers/winding down but the water pressure was very very low, like a fast drip from the shower heads. I reached out to our contact and he said that someone would be by in the morning to look into it. We planned to do an excursion in the morning but had to miss it and were unable to get a refund. The water was ultimately fixed around 10am. We figured out new plans for the day and were out until the evening. When we returned, the water was *completely* off. So no showers, drinking water (which was especially bad because no water bottles were provided), flushing the toilets, or showers. I reached out to our contact again and he said it would be back on in a few minutes. 2 hours later, no response and no water. We left & got a full refund from Airbnb.
Host Response
Once again we are sorry for the issues you experienced. Most part of the issues were out of our control, but still, we went ahead and took preventive measures to ensure the water supply will to fail again. We do care deeply about the needs of our guests, the previous reviews are good proof of that, but that doesn't mean there is no room for improvement, we are going to keep working to ensure the satisfaction of our future guests.
Brad
Excellent, 3 years ago
The place is as beautiful as the pictures portray but you can only appreciate the surroundings by spending time in the home. We were hoping for an authentic experience and this home, the town of El Castillo and our host, Augustine, exceeded our expectations. Definitely recommend and prepare for a bumpy ride to the top but arrive in paradise.
Chris
Excellent, 3 years ago
This was my second time staying at this property. The first time was in the single bedroom house (Pie #1). This house (Pie #3) was amazing! It’s located at the top of the property and is only just a few steps away from the pool, jacuzzi and BBQ common areas. It’s always quiet and private, even if other guests are occupying the two other houses. We had a total of 7 people and had plenty of space since some rooms only had one person in it. The two futons in the living room could have also been used to accommodate two more people. So in total, a group of 12 people would be the most that could comfortably spend a week or so in the house. Each room has its own bathroom in the room, which was super convenient. One room is separated from the house near the porch and has amazing 360 degree views in the morning and a staircase that leads down to the bathroom and shower. The back patio has an incredible view of the volcano and we enjoyed our morning coffee there every day. Highly recommended!
Brad
Excellent, 3 years ago
Absolutely breathtaking home and view. We felt so lucky to be staying there. The Phoenix restaurant about 100m down the hill made it that much better!
Delphine
Excellent, 3 years ago
The place is beautiful and quiet with views of the lake and volcano. The pool and jacuzzi are really great. The location is ideal for hiking in the park. To make everything perfect, it lacks some equipment for the kitchen. The host is flexible for schedules but could also give a little more instructions and recommendations for things to do (the welcome booklet is not necessarily up to date for example on closed restaurants) but it's a detail.
Gil
Excellent, 3 years ago
The serenity house was great place to stay. When I say off the beating path that's an understatement. The location is up the hill on dirt road. Once you reach the top the views are amazing. There is a restaurant and small market on the main road before heading up. Half way up the hill there's a restaurant that has brick oven pizza . We didn't try them with all the activities we had scheduled on our stay. La Fortuna is a 25-30 min drive from there. Special shout out to Augustine, he was easy to contact with all our needs. Very responsive. We will definitely stay here again.
Nancy
Excellent, 3 years ago
Our family was blown away by the beauty of this location. The views of the lake, volcano, and countryside were extraordinary. We grilled and ate dinner every night in the Pavillion, drank morning coffee in the gazebo/ observatory, enjoyed the pool and hot tub, loved sitting on the back porch listening to the birds… we had a fabulous and memorable time. Erica the concierge was very gracious with our late arrival. We felt very comfortable and well cared for and highly recommend this property.