by Denise Gabbard

Created on: December 21, 2009

Costa Rica, with its beautiful beaches just a short distance from towering dormant volcanoes and mountains, is a study in diversity. Surrounded by water on both the east and west sides, kayaking, surfing, fishing, diving, and tubing are all popular with residents and travelers alike. But many visitors come to the Arenal Volcano area for the lava pools, or hot springs, that are scattered throughout the region and heated by all that volcanic activity! Following are a few resorts that will pamper you while you partake of the healing waters.

Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort

Tabacon is a deluxe resort property located right at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. It’s the winner of a multitude of awards: Leading World Hotels, numerous Spa awards, and three World Travel Awards. The property has 114 luxury rooms in a very tropical environment. The Grand Spa treatments include hydrotherapies, volcanic mud baths, skin-care treatments and special massages, and traditional healing techniques. There are also group and private yoga sessions and ancient Temazcal therapy available. Hot springs are a natural expression of our planet’s energy, and Tabacón Resort’s hot springs are based 97% on rain and 3% volcanic magma. As rainwater seeps into the earth, it’s heated by magma deep inside and then pushed back to the surface. The water is loaded with minerals from the earth’s core, and provide lots of benefits to the human body. The benefits of the minerals are transferred to the skin and bloodstream through osmosis, while the effect of the hydrothermal floral and fauna macro organisms is called “biogleas” which strengthens the skin’s defense. The resort has a thermal river, and twelve lava pools and lagoons, along with beautiful gardens, trails, and waterfalls. Rates in 2009 ranged from $245-$505, depending on room type and season.

Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort
Arenal Volcano
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
(877)277-8291
tabacon.com

The Springs Resort & Spa

The Springs Resort has an amazing view of the Arenal Volcano and natural hot and cold springs, as well as a full service spa and four distinct dining areas. Perched one thousand feet above the Arenal Valley on a mountain ridge, the resort offers dazzling views of the volcano and the valley below, while allowing for refreshing breezes. The resort has eighteen freeform, landscaped pools with great views, and temperatures that range from 76° to 103°, and some raging waterfalls and others secluded forest pools, guests will find one that suits their mood perfectly. At the base of the reception building, Las Lagunas offers lush landscaping and lots of terraces for sunlovers, as well as shaded terraces surrounding twelve pools. A jungle bar and a water flume slide can be found 100 meters from Las Lagunas down a beautiful flowering rainforest walk. A full service spa and six restaurants and bars round out the resort’s amenities. Pricing in 2009 starts at $265 and climbs to $1,850 depending on room and season.

The Springs Resort & Spa
Arenal, Costa Rica
(954)727-8333
thespringscostarica.com

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa has 25 thermal pools (4 of them are cold water), three water slides, a naturally heated sauna, a giant Jacuzzi, three bars, two restaurants, walking track tours, and 8.5 acres of lush tropical gardens. The Baldi Aqua-Spa offers full service for any possible type of treatment you could desire. Room rates in 2009 range from $195 to $255.

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
(506)2- 479-9917
baldicostarica.com

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