Costa Rica: Relaxation and Driving to Arenal

While Costa Rica has a lot of wonderful things to do, sometimes it is equally good to take a day to do nothing. Well, to be honest, it wasn't nothing but it was incredible. On Saturday, we opted to spend time with some very special people who invited us out to the countryside on the outskirts of Santa Rita. This was very near where the bird watching tour was, so it was hot, sunny and dry. After the soaking we had experienced, we welcomed the change.

This was a day of  barbecuing, good conversation and good wine. It was camping with the luxury of a pool, bathrooms and outdoor kitchen. The children were in the water, hanging from the zip line and generally relaxing.  I was thrilled to see a green parrot flying in the trees. We had a wonderful hospitable day, and we were sorry to have to go back and pack.

Now, hard shell suitcases are the new in thing, so I had acquired a new set for Christmas. These suitcases are not forgiving if you like to buy souvenirs. It took me two hours to try and fit everything back in. So far, the handle has broken off, the zipper protested and generally,I miss my old suitcase. For the record, my next suitcase will be a backpack, soft sided.

In the morning, it was time to check out of The Villas Palmas. Our three bedroom apartment was wonderful, but I have to say, I don't miss the ants that paraded everywhere. It was very safe and very secure, being in a neighborhood that felt homey, even after dark.

Now this looked like a promising way to travel

Living on the hillside

The views are incredible

Behind trucks, driving is slow and steady

Bridges only fit one car, and this is a highway

Arenal in the distance

On departure, we drove through the exceptionally twisty roads to Arenal Volcano. We took the advice of the consulate seriously and didn't stop as theft is a real issue here. The drive goes up river valleys, around mountains and through gorgeous villages. However, do take a motion sickness tablet if you even think it might be a problem. My youngest had us guessing a few times. As you drive, the forest becomes green and lush. We  had a picnic lunch in the car, which was good as the drive took four hours.

Our destination was Arenal lodge. It is past the dam and up a very adventurous rutted track. The views from here were incredible. Today was a day where the volcano was bathed in sunlight. The weather was warm we opted to splash in the chilled pool water and soak in the jacuzzi that feasts the eyes on an exceptional landscape. There are amazing birds flitted in the garden and horses in the lower pastures. We took tons of photos as we were warned that the weather here is very unpredictable.

Everything seems to be for sale

This is how tricky the entrance is to Arenal Lodge...they let you know you made it. Ummmm

The road

The master bedroom

The kids room

The volcano was clearly visible...we were so lucky

Me of course!

For supper, we ate at the  restaurant on site.  The food was delicious. I will say that there is no children's menu, so choose the chicken or beef. The meat needs to be well done to get medium rare, my medium tenderloin was almost breathing. But the ambience here is peaceful and soothing. Our family room has two bedrooms and a living room, very large. and gorgeous. The rain pounded on the roof throughout the night, which just added to the rainforest vibe.

Tomorrow,  we are back  to exploring.

Nuevo Arenal on Dwellable