We stayed in this hotel because it was close to the airport but looked like it would have more character than an airport chain hotel. The resort looks like it was beautiful years ago, but its charm has definitely faded. We were there on January 1st and 2nd, and the hotel was absolutely deserted and a little creepy. Used champagne bottles and glasses littered the pool area and lounge for those two days, and there seemed to be about four people total working. The pool is beautiful and the grounds are nice, but our room wasn't particularly special. Food in the Italian restaurant is fine but a bit overpriced, but the breakfast is actually pretty good for being free. There is a little soda just down the street which serves great greasy Costa Rican food, which we preferred to the empty and somewhat sad hotel restaurant. Had there been more people and a more lively atmosphere the hotel ambiance would have been improved, but the deserted nature made it feel a little like the Costa Rican version of The Shining. Finally, on the morning we were leaving the front desk forgot to give us our wake up call AND forgot to call a taxi. It was 4am and the man at the front desk didn't speak any English and was freaking out, so a security guard had to drive us to the airport. It was odd, but indicative of the fact that the hotel is not running the way it did in its former glory.

We have not stayed in a better hotel than this one and we stayed in a couple really nice ones on this honeymoon. We loved everything: hospitality/friendliness of staff, the villas, the view, the food, the spa and the pools (there are 3). It's a small luxury resort hotel, which is worth every penny (even if you cannot get discounted rates through expedia). The resort has it's own nature trail, including 5 water falls with lots of birds, butterflies and provides drivers or guides to take you to Poas volcano, Arenal, Sarchi, coffee tours and any of the other nearby sites worth visiting. Highly recommended