Hotel Magic Mountain, Arenal/La Fortuna

Pros

• The location is in the jungle yet within walking distance of several restaurants in downtown La Fortuna.
• Enjoy some of the best views in the area of Arenal Volcano from the property's common areas and all rooms. 
• Guests can have fun on the rooftop, which includes a sports bar with swinging seats, a lounge serving dinner and drinks, and views of downtown La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano.
• The property is relatively flat (not too common in the area), and all buildings feature elevators, making the hotel more accessible.

Cons

• Though the rooms are clean and comfortable, the hotel could use a refresh. 
• Because the property is on the main road through La Fortuna, some rooms may be noisier than others. 
• This hotel is popular for larger tour groups, so it can sometimes get busy.  
• The bar hosts a weekly karaoke night popular with locals; it can disturb guests who go to bed early. 

Authenticity

Though this is a fairly standard resort, the property channels Costa Rican vibes here and there. The outdoor spaces have tall palm trees, dense greenery, and amazing volcano views. 

Location

This is an excellent option if you're looking for a hotel close enough to walk into downtown La Fortuna. You can easily stroll into the town, where you'll find many restaurants, cafés, and shops. The only tradeoff is that you'll be right on the main road, which can get busy and noisy. As for the area's main sites, a 25-minute drive brings you to the park and less than 10 minutes to La Fortuna Waterfall. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

Overall, the rooms are clean, modern, and comfy, though standard and not particular to the location. Still, all feature air-conditioning, minifridges, and private terraces/balconies with volcano views. Grab a suite for a bit more space, a seating area, a wine bar, and an in-room Jacuzzi tub with views of Arenal Volcano.

Wildlife

Hotel Magic Mountain is on the outskirts of town, so travelers probably won't see a wide range of wildlife. But birds are a common sight, especially around the pool, and guests will probably hear frogs at night.

Amenities

Hotel Magic Mountain has numerous pools with hot tubs, waterfalls, and a garden terrace. The main pool has a swim-up bar, a kids' area, and views of Arenal Volcano. There's also a rooftop lounge with swinging seats and great views; meals and drinks can be enjoyed here, too. The hotel's spa has treatment rooms overlooking the gardens. With elevators and mostly flat surfaces, the hotel is suitable for travelers with limited mobility.

Family-Friendliness

Families with kids are welcome at Hotel Magic Mountain; two children up to nine can stay for free when using existing beds in a room with their parent/guardian. Other children beyond this limit, or above nine, are charged a reduced rate. Kids will enjoy the pool, which has a shallow area for small children, and there are kid-friendly options on the breakfast buffet. Babysitting can be provided for an extra fee.

Other Highlights

Hotel Magic Mountain has one restaurant and two bars. Lina's Restaurant serves international cuisine for breakfast (buffet-style), lunch, and dinner. The Magic Bar is a sports-style bar on the rooftop with several TV screens showing sports games, a dance floor, and lounge and bar seating, and it serves food as well as a wide range of drinks. It hosts a weekly karaoke night on the weekends that is very popular with locals. The second bar, Margarita's, is a poolside bar that serves cocktails and snacks.