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Beautiful and Private home in the Heart of the Village with great Volcano views!

Peñas Blancas vacation home with kitchen

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Property grounds
Dining
Exterior
Property grounds
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6120 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Mountain view

Explore the area

View in a map
El Castillo, Provincia de Alajuela
  • Place, Arenal Volcano
  • Place, Costa Rica Sky Adventures
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Tabacon Hot Springs
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Airport, La Fortuna (FON-Arenal)
    ‪41 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Peñas Blancas

On lake.With a stay at this Peñas Blancas vacation home, you'll be steps from Arenal Eco Zoo and Butterfly Conservatory. Also, Lake Arenal is within half a mile (1 km) and Costa Rica Sky Adventures is within 3 miles (5 km).
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What's nearby

  • Costa Rica Sky Adventures - 8 min drive - 4.5 km
  • Tabacon Hot Springs - 21 min drive - 13.2 km
  • Arenal Volcano National Park - 21 min drive - 13.6 km
  • Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park - 27 min drive - 16.7 km
  • La Fortuna Waterfall - 42 min drive - 29.5 km

Getting around

  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) - 35 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shangri-La Gardens - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Tucanes - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Soda La Palma - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante El Jilguero - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Las Palmas - ‬26 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Beautiful and Private home in the Heart of the Village with great Volcano views!

- The Mirador house is located right in the heart of the country town of El Castillo, very close the grocery store, restaurants, and some of the best adventure tours in the area. The house is cozy and private with beautiful gardens and a nice Volcano and rain forest view from the Gazebo.
- There are 2 bedrooms with A/C and 1 queen size bed each one and a comfortable futon that opens to a full size bed in the living room.
- The fully equipped kitchen have all the appliances necessary to prepare delicious meals for everybody.
- Overall this house is perfect for small families looking for an easy to reach house close to the adventure but far from the noise of the city.
- Nearby you will find lots of tours to keep you entertained for days, Volcano hikes, Zip Lines, Hanging Bridges, ATV tours, Kayak tours, Rainforest and Waterfall hikes, Horseback riding, Hot Springs, Wildlife watching tours and more. All of these are less than half an hour away from the house. Our concierge is always available at our new and modern Welcome Center to help you book tours, find the best restaurants, book a massage and get the most out of your time in the area.
-Location: El Castillo is approx. 3 hours (150km) from both international airports, either in the capital of San Jose, or on the northern pacific coast in Liberia. La Fortuna, which is a small city that offers amenities such as grocery, banking, post office, restaurants, hot springs, excursions and much more. is only 30 minutes away.

Similar properties

Living area

Spectacular Arenal Volcano and Lake Views

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
4.8 out of 5, Exceptional, 19 reviews
The price is CA $188
CA $259 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Spectacular Arenal Volcano and Lake Views

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Massage

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Chef service

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a village
  • In the mountains
  • Near a zoo
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Unit size: 1,290 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.

Property is also known as

320558

Reviews

Beautiful and Private home in the Heart of the Village with great Volcano views! Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 47 out of 52 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 52 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 52 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 52 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 52 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Sean R.

Liked: Cleanliness

El Castillo home

Home that is right in town with several restaurants, markets, and activities within walking distance. Great view from the back patio. The host was available and helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin C., West Kelowna Canada

Liked: Cleanliness

Trip to Costa Rica

There was lots to do within walking distance of the home, otherwise it was a short drive, the butterfly sanctuary was very good and the motorcycle restaurant basically next door was very good as well
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

6/10 Okay

Rasi W., Houston, Texas

Beautiful location but a very dated property

In contrast to most of the other opinions here, we had a very different experience. To begin with the check-in process was very quick and efficient. The property manager is just down the road, and he’s very attentive. Unfortunately, the condition and state of the properties a whole different story. The house is very dated, extremely rundown, and in serious need of a facelift. When we arrived, all the furniture was covered with dusty blankets which the property manager promptly removed. However, although the bedsheets were clean, the furniture was very dusty. The bathroom is partially exposed to the living room with the washbasin in the living room itself, and the toilet and shower in two separate cubicles. The toilet and shower cubicles were cramped and moldy smelling. The floors were quite dirty and the beds were creaking with every movement. I would also note, that the beautiful balcony that you see in the photographs is not attached to the house, but a separate gazebo built outside of the house. We did have some beautiful views from there. Overall, based on the quality of the property, this was not worth the money. I feel strongly that the owner should probably put some time and effort into renovating the property from its current state, and the value proposition would be much better. We regularly stay in VRBOs during our vacations and are generally a good judge of quality but we left feeling that with Casa Mirador we really missed the mark.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Charles C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place to visit the region

Lovely place in a quiet bedroom village about 15 minutes from Fortuna. We preferred that because Fortuna is a crowded mess. The house itself is lovely and spacious. Great views if it's not raining. Also, Agustin was easily available a d quite helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tara P.

Liked: Cleanliness

The View!

We enjoyed a short stay at this home. Its in the perfect location for rural experience of Costa Rica, but close enough to jump over to La Fortunas tourist trap. We watched the parrots (yellow naped and toucans) play and eat every morning with the volcano backdrop. We also got to see a pizote on our ride into La Fortuna. The Butterfly Conservatory is magical and within walking distance. We had a great and inexpensive meal at Ventamita Cafe as we enjoyed the view. We went to La Fortuna for horseback riding (Don Tobias), hot springs (Los Lagos) and of course, the waterfall. Dont miss out on the shampoo ginger growing all over in El Castillo. It's super fun for the kids, its a natural shampoo plant that you can squeeze and put into your hair.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alison R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing views

We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Castillo. The terrace had an amazing view of Arenal volcano, and we saw so many birds in the backyard. It was amazing to have coffee in morning and watch clouds roll through valley and listen to birdsong. The location is convenient for getting to Fortuna and nearby parks for hiking, but Castillo feels much more quaint and quiet for enjoying peaceful evenings. We cooked in kitchen and had everything we needed to prepare meals. We also loved Ventanita restaurant up the hill from this location.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dustin S.

Liked: Cleanliness

El Castillo

Wonderful home with a great view of volcano. Close to amenities, dining, activities. Locals are super nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jared H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful old Costa Rica

If you are looking for an escape to old Costa Rica with an amazing viewing platform of Arenal volcano, this is your spot. The village of El Castillo is quaint and 2 great restaurants are walking distance from the property. Augustin was great to work with, but Vrbo has a weird quirk that doesn't give you a confirmation of your reservation. Check directly with Augustin the manager of the property.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael M., Wisconsin

Liked: Cleanliness

Rainforest wonderland!

The house was amazing! The host was so responsive and want to thank you so much for a great 3 days! We loved your house and location. Thanks for sharing with us!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Liz K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful four-night stay

Unique and comfortable home with lovely backyard views. The check-in and check-out processes were easy and fast. The center offered many suggestions for activities in the area which was greatly appreciated. We loved the local restaurants and the excellent bakery that was just down the road.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Maki K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved our stay!

This place was amazing! About a 30 min drive to most of the excursions that we did. Agustin was a great host and provided us with some great excursion and restaurant recommendations. Would love to come back! ❤️
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Maxim B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing views!!

Lovely property with magical feel Gorgeous views Bring rain gear and find things to do in the rain as well as dry time All activities and stores are within 5 to 25 min away Had a fantastic time here👌
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

4/10 Poor

Jeff I.

Great view, substandard house

No hot water. Lumpy sorry excuse for a couch, rooster next door starts at 3:30 and goes to 6:30. Guide book leaves of great special places uphill. Guidebook is out of date with prices and has no contact info for recommendations. No laundry detergent. Why make us by new package whe we want to do one ore two loads.? lol ace a fe detergent pillows. The town is full of money grabbers. nOT recommended.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Miss Back patio and welcome center already!

This property is off the beaten path in charming El Castillo which we enjoyed. Need 4W drive. Family of 5 very much enjoyed the back patio/hammock...so many birds, hummingbirds, Arenal view, and flowers. The welcome center folks are OUTSTANDING and helped us with recommendations of where to shop and amazing tours. 1 bed creaky but comfortable.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janelle B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Setting, setting, setting

The view is spectacular - I loved sitting on the deck every morning to enjoy it with a cup of coffee. The house is as described. There are some bugs and a gecko, but when you see the setting, it makes sense and using chemicals would hurt the beautiful surroundings. Beds were very comfortable. You will hear roosters every morning and sometimes the day. They belong to the neighbor and you just have to get used to it. I was aware and just dealt with it. If you have the air-conditioner on in the bedrooms it is not as loud. Every morning we opened up the doors and windows and let the wonderful breeze come through to air out the house and cool it down (might be why we had bugs!). Totally worth it. The cool mountain air is fresh and invigorating. We closed up if leaving or once the sun started to go down. I didn't get one mosquito bite! FYI Costa Rican roads are DIFFICULT. Be ready to drive some harrowing roads. This home is in a great area with some great restaurants and tours available, but there are big hills. I had a sprained ankle so we drove, but if I had been healthy we would have got some good cardio in. If you have food allergies, there is a restaurant called Essence up the road that will accommodate it all. The hostess is always there and remembers what you told her. Cocoa tour was fun. Fantastic bakery down the road - stores, restaurants as well. La Fortuna nearby (20min). Host was just down the road and was responsive and very nice. We really enjoyed staying here!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tess W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location

Loved watching the birds in the morning on the balcony with a cup of coffee! So much to do within an hour's drive. I wish we had more time to check it all out. Easy to communicate with property manager and to check in/out. Recommend getting groceries from far away as most of the close stores have only the basics.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paul T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful stay.

We stayed here in July of 2023. Everything was great. Check in was super convenient and friendly. This is a really gorgeous area with a ton to explore. I would 100% book this location again. (Family of 4.)
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bryan B., Concord, USA

Awesome views and charm

We really enjoyed our stay but it wasn't very clean when we arrived. The cottage was very cozy (very charming) and the view from the covered deck was spectacular with lots of birds. The people at the welcome center were extremely friendly and helpful. The location is very convenient to Arenal and La Fortuna. There was more to do than we could do in our short stay. On another note, the second nite when we returned, we found termites coming out of the walls in the shower. Lots of them. This place needs a thorough inspection and treatment or it will be sawdust.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacy P., Charlotte

Liked: Cleanliness

THE VIEW!

Holy cow - the view from this place is priceless! There is also a bakery that you can walk to down the hill each morning and an amazing restaurant up the hill that we would go to at night. It's about a 30 min drive into La Fortuna for activities which isn't bad at all. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Tracy L.

Liked: Cleanliness

A quiet gem

The house is located in El Castillo and not in La Fortuna which was fantastic. It is a smaller, quieter community yet still a short distance from La Fortuna. The house is beautiful with nice woodwork. The management staff were wonderful and responsive to questions. It is in walking distance to a couple of places to eat, a small store and most important, a bakery. The house was clean, spacious and had everything you need. It has a deck in the back (pictured) where you can spend hours looking at Lake Arenal, the volcano and an amazing amount of birds passing by the property. In our 3 week trip, we spent less time here than in other places and that was a HUGE mistake. There is much to do in the area. We most certainly would rent this VRBO again.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vicki L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Good location

We enjoyed our stay at this property. Close to all the activities we wanted to do. Check in/out was super easy. Would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anna D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Winter get away

Property was lovely. Agustin was amazing to work with and he made all our reservations which was very helpful. Views from the property were fantastic and we saw many native birds including toucans. Tried many of the local restaurants and the food was very good.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Clare M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved the Birds and the Food

We really enjoyed our stay in El Castillo. The town is not as busy as La Fortuna and the home has a beautiful backyard view. We only had to walk a few steps to reach La Ventanita, which is a wonderful place to get very reasonably priced food and great milkshakes. There is a bakery down the hill that serves fresh baked goods and a delicious vegetarian restaurant named Essence Arenal. The house was the perfect base for our exploration of this incredibly beautiful area.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Todd R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful View

quiet spot with lots to do nearby
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Peggy C., Prudenville, MI

Liked: Cleanliness

Great view to sit and relax

We truly enjoyed our stay at El Mirador House. If it was still light outside and we were not out and about you would find us out back on the deck enjoying the sights and the sounds of the valley. How lucky we were to be able to enjoy that view for 5 days. Augustin and the others at the welcome center set us up with some tours and were a pleasure to just sit and chat with. I liked hearing about the area around us. Great people, nice house.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2022