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Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views.

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A room with a large sliding glass door leading to a balcony with a table and chairs, overlooking a mountain and a body of water.
A bedroom with a bed, two wardrobes, a bathroom with a sink and mirror, and a kitchen area with a refrigerator.
A hotel room with a view of a mountain, a balcony with a chair, and a kitchenette.
A yellow house with a balcony, a small deck, and a view of a lake.
A kitchen with a microwave, sink, and refrigerator.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2600 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available
  • Mountain view

Explore the area

View in a map
El Castillo, Alajuela
  • Place, Lake Arenal
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Butterfly Conservatory
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Tabacon Hot Springs
    ‪44 min drive‬
  • Airport, La Fortuna (FON-Arenal)
    ‪65 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Peñas Blancas

This vacation home places you next to Lake Arenal and within a mile (2 km) of Butterfly Conservatory. The vacation home includes a kitchenette, a balcony, and a refrigerator.
View more Vacation Homes in Peñas BlancasOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Arenal - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Butterfly Conservatory - 4 min drive - 0.9 miles
  • Tabacon Hot Springs - 44 min drive - 9.3 miles
  • Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park - 49 min drive - 11.7 miles
  • Baldi Hot Springs - 54 min drive - 14.9 miles

Getting around

  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) - 40 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shangri-La Gardens - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Soda La Palma - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪La Mesa de Mamá - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪La Ventanita - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Fusión Arenal Mirador. - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Entire place

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

Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views.

Nestled on a hilltop, with spectacular views of Lake Arenal and the Arenal Volcano, the Papaya Bungalows offers a unique and unforgettable holiday in one of Costa Rica’s premier travel destinations.
- This beautiful bungalows are ideal for newly weds or couples looking for a romantic getaway. Adults only.
- Its equipped with 1 queen size bed, A/C, Wi-Fi, and a kitchenette with a small fridge, microwave and coffee maker.

- THINGS TO DO: There are lots of tours to keep you entertained for days, Volcano hikes, Zip Lines, Hanging Bridges, ATV tours, Kayak and Paddle-board 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.

- GETTING AROUND: You will want your own Rental Car, a 4WD will be better considering the short but steep hill going up to the bungalow. While there are a few things to see and a couple of restaurants within walking distance of the house, there are many activities that require a 10 to 45 minute drive. You will not be happy waiting for a cab to arrive either coming or going.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchenette and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with a separate bedroom. The vacation home also includes a coffee maker. Housekeeping is available on request.

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Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Massage

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchenette

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

Bedrooms

  • 1 bedroom
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Garden

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • In the mountains
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming 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

  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 600 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children

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
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.

Property is also known as

382812

Frequently asked questions

What can I see within easy reach of this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Peñas Blancas, just steps from Lake Arenal. You'll also find Costa Rica Sky Adventures and Butterfly Conservatory within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views.?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer parking.

Is a spa located at this vacation home?

Spa services at the vacation home include massages.

Is this vacation home associated with a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views.?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside vacation home include a kitchenette as well as massages and concierge services.

Are there hot tubs at Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views.?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home include breakfast service?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.

Are there connecting rooms at Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views.?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this vacation home.

How far is the airport from this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is La Fortuna (FON-Arenal), which is 16.2 mi away (40 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views.?

Yes, every house at Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views. comes with a balcony and some offer mountain and water views.

Papaya Bungalow #1. Hilltop Bungalow with Spectacular Lake & Volcano Views. Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 11 out of 13 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 13 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 13 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 13 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 13 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

6.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stay was lovely! We spent the rest of our trip wishing we had stayed here longer. Wonderful spot to unwind for a couple of days and close enough to la Fortuna to explore all the touristy areas without staying in the center of it.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Serene & Tranquil

Amazing view in peaceful setting. Great for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Very easy check in and out.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful!

Absolutely beautiful views. Super clean and comfortable. Driveway a little tricky, but after you do it once it's easier.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Views are spectacular! Check in was easy and host was very respectful and responsive. Climb is very steep though the papayas are growing and the birds singing! Way cool seeing a Toucan in the front and green parrakeets flying by squawking and hearing many different birdsongs. I would definitely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Volcano View Cabin

Amazing volcano view cabin within walking distance of many attractions like kayaking and bike rentals! The drive way is a bit steep, but over all easy to get to and driving distance to many Costa Rica classic destinations like La Fortuna waterfall, hot springs, and the Arenal volcano.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing view, very friendly locals

The place was super clean, the view was spectacular. We had everything that we needed for our 3-day stay. Walking distance to restaurants, bars, and a small supermarket. The locals are super friendly and we actually made friends with some of them. Highly recommended! We would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

GREAT place to stay!

Great place to stay! I loved everything about it. The check in process was easy. It was clean. Beautiful view! The host was so helpful and kind. Would highly recommend to anyone. Wish I could have stayed longer.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Living free!

This our 3rd time to this precious place! It is the perfect place to free your mind and soul! Monkeys, birds & iguanas to entertain and the most beautiful secluded beach. Just clean & simple living! This is a very special place!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Complete satisfaction.

Very lovely location and beautiful volcano/lake view. Peacefulness of site is a plus though that could be affected if the adjacent bungalow were occupied.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Nice experience

I had a wonderful stay overall! The view was absolutely stunning, and the privacy of the property made it a peaceful retreat — ideal for a couple looking to disconnect and relax.A few things to note: the drive up to the property is quite steep, so be prepared, especially if you’re arriving at night for the first time would be difficult. It would have been great if the house had a stove for cooking, as that would make longer stays more convenient. Also, while the setting is natural, reducing the number of bugs inside the house would definitely improve the comfort level.That said, the owner was responsive and helpful, and the experience was very enjoyable. We’d definitely recommend this place for a romantic getaway with unbeatable views!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Worth a Read

This location is fantastic. Check in, communication, check out, everything was as easy as it gets.The Good:The location itself was amazing. The town of El Castillo is, in my opinion a much better choice than La Fortuna. There's almost no traffic, its unique, gorgeous and you get that authentic local feel because there's seemingly few other tourists there. There are no souvenir shops or shops to browse but there are several places to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner and theres great coffee, views and welcoming people at each one. You get to wake up to Lake Arenal and the Volcano each morning and honestly the view from the front porch is just breathtaking. At morning and at dusk the birds are playing and its fantastic. So much that I would open the sliding door and the curtains and then get back in bed just to listen and watch. In the evening there is so little traffic that when you sit outside you may see a few scooters go by but thats about it.The not so good:The driveway is very steep (50-60 deg incline maybe) and both up and down are reason to drive an all wheel or 4x4 vehicle. I made it without issues but realize not everyone is comfortable in this situation. The bed left a little to be desired but we slept through the night.All in all, this place is Amazing. I truly feel very fortunate to have spent a week in this beautiful area and I would highly recommend others to do the same.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Chambre comme sur les photos, superbe vue
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025