Arenal hike and Hotsprings

With a very informative guide we set off for a hike on the base of the Arenal Volcano.  The hike took us to the base of the lava flows and allowed us magnificent views of the surrounding countryside as well as Arenal Lake. While we took in the sights our guide filled us with information about the area and the eruption of the volcano which destroyed a whole town in 1967.  Though the volcano is not active at this point it is against the law to hike to the top.  On the way down we hike through a pasture of cows which I believe was a highlight for the kids as there were even some selfies taken with some of the reluctant creatures.  Back at the bus we enjoyed fresh pineapple and watermelon with beer and had a really interesting discussion on how Covid had affected Costa Rica as tourism is their number one industry.  Our guides father is a cheese maker and as the restaurants and supermarkets were not buying he took to bartering with others for products he needed.  Very tough if you had nothing to barter with.

Our next experience was at the incredible Tabacon Hotsprings.  These beautiful pools and waterfalls of mineral water are fed by rivers of thermal water from the veins of the Arenal Volcano and are surrounded by lush tropical gardens.  We spent a few hours soaking in and enjoying the different pools.that are just carved into nature with natural rocky or sand bottoms.  As the sun set and the lights in the gardens and pools came on it was magical.  The experience was one that was enjoyed by all. Totally relaxed we were then served a wonderful three course meal in the restaurant before returning to our resort.

Fabulous view of a sloth eating on our way to the hike

Start of the hiking trail on the volcano

Vegetation has started to grow on the lava flows

The boys at our lookout point

Another group picture as we enjoy the scenery

Alanna taking a selfie with the cows

I do believe the kids liked the cows better than the views

Enjoying a Local beer on a hot day after the hike

The boys enjoying one of the Hotsprings 

The setting and the natural waterfalls was just beautiful 

Another selfie

Going for some big water action

Back massages with hot mineral water

Kids enjoyed going up and down all the various falls

Perfect ledges to sit and enjoy the soothing water

The atmosphere changed as the sun set and lights came on

A beautiful experience with no crowds. We almost felt like we had the springs to ourselves 

Ceviche served with delicious banana chips

A traditional dish of pork belly and beans with some definite spice. Delicious. A fried jalapeño on the side for decoration which had a lot of heat as Tyler is well aware of as he decided to eat it!