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Xandari Resort & Spa vs Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Both properties are rated very highly by expert reviewers. Overall, Xandari Resort & Spa ranks significantly higher than Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa. Xandari Resort & Spa comes in at #10 in Costa Rica with recommendations from 2 sources like Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet.

Xandari Resort & Spa
Xandari Resort & Spa
7 / 10
1 km northwest of El Diamante Bar, Tacacori, Alajuela 4050, Costa Rica
From $233 /night
  • Pet Friendly
  • Bar/Lounge
  • Hot Tub
  • Free Internet
  • Room Service
  • Free Breakfast
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Condé Nast Traveler Condé Nast Traveler
"On a former coffee plantation, this 40-acre resort with a perfect design score is just 20 minutes from San Jose's Juan Santamaria Airport, but "it's worlds away from the chaotic capital." Full review
Fodor's Fodor's
"The tranquil and colorful Xandari is a strikingly original inn and spa, tailor-made for honeymooners and romantic getaways." Full review
Jetsetter Jetsetter
"Artist-architect-owned boutique featuring handmade art and miles of nature trails overlooking Costa Rica’s Central Valley." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"Overlooking the Central Valley, this spa village features five private jalapa treatment quarters where guests enjoy mud wraps, facials, and exotic Costa Rican body treatments." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"A working coffee plantation 3,900 feet above sea level is the setting for this relaxing resort and spa." Full review
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Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
7 / 10
23 km west from La Fortuna town, Main road to Arenal National Park, La Fortuna de San Carlos, Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
From $147 /night
  • Bar/Lounge
  • Hot Tub
  • Free Internet
  • Room Service
  • Free Breakfast
  • Shuttle Bus
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Afar Magazine Afar Magazine
"Within the grounds of the Arenal Observatory Lodge in Costa Rica, there are several paths of varying length that can be walked." Full review
Fodor's Fodor's
"These cozy, comfortable, and simple rooms allow you to sleep as close as anyone should to a volcano—it's a mere 2¾ km (1¾ miles) away, and stellar views and outdoor activities are what the place is all about." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"Close enough to Arenal Volcano for visitors to hear and feel the nearly constant rumbling, this observatory (on a hillside just over a mile from the peak) gets excellent views of the eruptions." Full review
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
"Rooms range from La Casona’s rustic doubles with shared bathrooms and views from the porch, to plus junior suites, with king-size beds, local art and huge picture windows framing the volcano." Full review
Frommer's Frommer's
"The views from the rooms, restaurant, and common areas are simply spectacular. The main dining room features a massive wall of glass, with a V-shaped peak that perfectly frames the volcano." Full review
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