Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

Far enough away from La Fortuna to avoid its touristy hustle and bustle, but still close enough to be only a few minutes' ride into town, Casa Luna is a tiny gated community that feels away from it all. According to staff, the guests are largely Americans, Germans, and Canadians from ages 30 to 60, who take advantage of the hotel bar's two-for-one daily happy hour rather than taking the jaunt into town for their carousing. The property is compact relative to others in the region, with not a whole lot to do aside from lounging at the pool or drinking at the bar, but the grounds are well-manicured and wildlife-rich. This is a perfectly adequate home base for those planning to spend their days on excursions around the region who want to come home to clean accommodations on lush grounds. Those looking for a property where they can stay entertained without going anywhere should probably look elsewhere.

On a well-maintained side road off the main road into La Fortuna, Casa Luna is about 10 minutes' ride south of town. Guests have easy access to adventure outfits and more restaurant options (important as some guests find the on-site eatery overpriced), but the hotel maintains its distance from the backpackers and touts. Those who don't have rides arranged, their own cars, or impressive walking stamina in the tropical heat and rain may find it far enough away from everything to be somewhat inconvenient, but it's closer than the gantlet of similar-looking hotels that inhabit the road to the north of town, giving Casa Luna both the benefit of proximity and -- because there are few hotel neighbors in the immediate area -- a greater sense of seclusion.

The hotel aptly describes its rooms as "rustic-colonial," and they deliver on that promise, with rustic details such as wood ceilings and sturdy wood furniture, and Spanish colonial influences such as terra-cotta tile floors, white adobe wall texturing, and wrought iron accents. All rooms have two queen-size beds, though rates change depending on the number of guests (up to four are allowed). Amenities include AC, mini-fridges (partially stocked with water, soda, beer, and a candy bar), minibar items (such as cookies, chips, and liquor), safes, coffeemakers, flat-screen cable TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms have walk-in showers and vessel sinks, though some guests have noted that the hot water can run out later in the day. While second-floor rooms have views of the volcano, first-floor guests may miss out because of the tall vegetation in front that blocks off the paths, pool, and parking lot.

The hotel does what it can to keep guests from having to go to town, though activities are more limited here than at some similarly priced properties, and hot springs are noticeably absent. There are a pool and hut tub surrounded by lush vegetation, however. Many find the restaurant overpriced, though the quality is good, and the daily two-for-one happy hour at least provides value. There's also a private rainforest path, and the spa has a massage room that's open to the jungle, making for a unique therapeutic experience.