Our Fantastic Reviews

My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon and honestly cannot express how happy we were to have chosen this as our stay in Costa Rica! The quality and attention to detail along with the cleanliness showed they go above and beyond for their guests. From the moment we arrived, they were ready to welcome us and were super responsive to any questions we had throughout our stay. They had great recommendations of places to go visit too. The included multi-course breakfast every morning was the best part and made us even more grateful to have chosen this Airbnb. Highly recommend staying here!! Thank you Nita and Marty for everything!

Our stay with Marty and Nita was perfect. Their mountain location is far more comfortable than La Fortuna with cooler temperatures, yet still 30 minutes from everything in the Arenal/La Fortuna areas. You can fly into either airport. Their place is breathtaking with a hot tub view of Arenal lake and an infinity pool view of Arenal volcano. The room and every square inch of their home/B&B has been meticulously thought through with decorations, lights, murals/art, and greenery. The plants on their grounds are beautiful which you can see walking around or down a cool little rainforest trail down to a creek. They even have an onsite massage room which we took advantage of one rainy evening. No noise machine needed with plenty of water, insects, howler monkey, and tucan calls. Breakfast with Marty and Nita every morning was always a treat. They have traveled about everywhere in the world and are a wealth of information for advice on future travels. You simply can't go wrong! Be prepared for an adventerous journey to get there. We came from San Jose and stopped by volcan Poas on the way there, then went home via Liberia so we got a better tour of Costa Rica. It gets dark their early (6 pm ish) and often rains at night so plan to drive it with plenty of daylight hours so you enjoy the trip and arrive safely. Cheers!   

We had a lovely time during our stay - Marty and Nita and wonderful hosts, excellent communication and guidance. We took advantage of the luxurious massage (a must do) and chefs dinner. The views are amazing. A wonderful stop during our first time in Costa Rica!

Wonderful house and property in a rainforest setting. House has all the necessary amenities, comfortable bed. Marty was very responsive on WhatsApp and welcoming when we arrived. We thoroughly enjoyed all the little extras like the pool, hot tub, and nature walk. Would definitely return again!

My partner and I decided to book the Encantada Arenal B&B for the second leg of our babymoon in Costa Rica.
We knew we were in for a treat when we drove up the winding road that leads to Marty and Nita's beautiful home. The property is secluded and private, and it is surrounded by lush rainforest, tropical plants and a great view of the Arenal volcano.
We were greeted by our hosts, who showed us around their thoughtfully-planned property (Marty is an architect who designed Encantada), which includes an infinity pool, a jacuzzi, a stretch/yoga studio, a massage studio that offers several services, and a maintained, 10-min trail that cuts down into the rainforest. I especially loved meeting Cinco, one of their cats, and their sweet dogs.
We stayed in the Parrot suite, which was decorated in a Costa Rican-chic style (lots of bright colors and plant accents) and featured a king-size bed, walk in shower and cozy robes for the two of us. Marty and Nita had also provided a welcome basket of snacks, drinks and handmade chocolates.
A shining point in our stay was the made-to-order breakfast. The night before, we made our selections from a menu of offerings (the eggs Benedict was a highlight), and Priscilla and Michael, the on-site staff, served us our orders the next day in the open-air breakfast area. It was so lovely being able to enjoy a breakfast before heading out on the adventures we had planned, and everything we had was delicious.
We also decided to add on a private dinner experience, which Nita and Marty organized for us, and we really enjoyed getting to taste dishes made by a local chef. Everything (the sea bass ceviche, jerk chicken, and arroz con leche) was perfect.
The B&B is located close to several restaurants and a bodega for supplies, and even though it isn't "right next" to La Fortuna, it was pretty easy to get to the major attractions La Fortuna offers, such as the volcano hikes, hanging bridges, hot springs, etc--no more than a 20 minute drive for most of these.
Overall, we highly recommend checking out Marty and Nita's spot! It's a gem of a place, and where else can you say that you woke up to an alarm clock of howler monkeys? If you're looking for a private, romantic place to spend some time with your significant other, this fits the bill and more
 

We knew we were in for a treat when we drove up the winding road that leads to Marty and Nita's beautiful home. The property is secluded and private, and it is surrounded by lush rainforest, tropical plants and a great view of the Arenal volcano.

We were greeted by our hosts, who showed us around their thoughtfully-planned property (Marty is an architect who designed Encantada), which includes an infinity pool, a jacuzzi, a stretch/yoga studio, a massage studio that offers several services, and a maintained, 10-min trail that cuts down into the rainforest. I especially loved meeting Cinco, one of their cats, and their sweet dogs.

We stayed in the Parrot suite, which was decorated in a Costa Rican-chic style (lots of bright colors and plant accents) and featured a king-size bed, walk in shower and cozy robes for the two of us. Marty and Nita had also provided a welcome basket of snacks, drinks and handmade chocolates.

A shining point in our stay was the made-to-order breakfast. The night before, we made our selections from a menu of offerings (the eggs Benedict was a highlight), and Priscilla and Michael, the on-site staff, served us our orders the next day in the open-air breakfast area. It was so lovely being able to enjoy a breakfast before heading out on the adventures we had planned, and everything we had was delicious.

We also decided to add on a private dinner experience, which Nita and Marty organized for us, and we really enjoyed getting to taste dishes made by a local chef. Everything (the sea bass ceviche, jerk chicken, and arroz con leche) was perfect.

The B&B is located close to several restaurants and a bodega for supplies, and even though it isn't "right next" to La Fortuna, it was pretty easy to get to the major attractions La Fortuna offers, such as the volcano hikes, hanging bridges, hot springs, etc--no more than a 20 minute drive for most of these.

Overall, we highly recommend checking out Marty and Nita's spot! It's a gem of a place, and where else can you say that you woke up to an alarm clock of howler monkeys? If you're looking for a private, romantic place to spend some time with your significant other, this fits the bill and more.

Amazing property in A town 20 mins from La Fortuna. Great breakfast and cute room, perfect for a couple who want a Traditional B&B

Thank you, Marty & Nita, you were wonderful and I’m so grateful we got to spend some time on your beautiful property! The accommodations were perfect ! Loved the massage, breakfast, and the helpful goodies in our room. Definitely recommend ?

Very cute and cozy house that was designed by the owner. The house is surrounded by nature, and great place for birds watching. Road in front of the building is very rough, definitely need a AWD car. Hosts are so sweet. On our first night, we stuck in the Airbnb due to the flood. Nita kindly offered everyone some food.

We stayed a few nights at Nita and Marty BNB . The location was great! Recommend having your own car because it is out of town close to lake Arenal ,but close enough to la fortune to enjoy both. The grounds and views were amazing ! We had a wonderful breakfast every morning and a great dinner prepared by chef. The host arranged massages for both of us in their massage canopy in the rainforest. Highly recommend if staying there! We hiked volcanos and waterfalls ,kayak on lake arenal, white water rafted on the river and chilled in hot springs. We will definitely be back.! Thanks Marty and Nita for welcoming us into your slice of paradise!

Nothing but great things to say here. Nita and Marty are amazing hosts for a beautiful B&B. The area is incredible, and they know how to keep you well fed and happy (breakfast is incredible here). Best place I’ve ever stayed

From the moment we arrived at this breathtaking home, we knew we were in for an unforgettable experience. The panoramic view of the majestic volcano and massive lake took our breath away, and we found ourselves constantly mesmerized by the natural beauty that surrounded us. The home itself was a true oasis of tranquility and comfort. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to create a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere. The blended indoor and outdoor living, allowed us to soak in the views. Mornings were a delight as we indulged in a fantastic breakfast while overlooking the views of the volcano. Our hosts were incredibly warm and welcoming, providing us with invaluable tips on local activities and dining options. They went above and beyond to ensure that our stay was nothing short of perfect, and we are truly grateful for their hospitality. If you are looking for a slice of paradise in Costa Rica, look no further than this stunning home, and the combination of unparalleled natural beauty.

By far my favorite place. The hosts are friendly and great to chat with. The B & B is magnificent, there’s a ton of stuff to do on this private property and it feels like a castle. We were given free massages for a mixup in scheduling and they were excellent with hot stones and deep tissue work—better than what you’ll experience at home. 10/10 would recommend this place.

Nita and Marty were great hosts. Very informative and I enjoyed our conversations. I felt very welcome!

This B&B is everything that exemplifies Costa Rica. The grounds are beautiful and there's nothing like falling asleep and waking to the sounds of the rainforest! If you are seeking the simple, Pura Vida life look no further, because this is it!

Beautiful location and serene retreat- like space! We loved our stay and really enjoyed the flexibility, pools, fun decor, and breakfasts. It was so relaxing we didn't want to leave.

If I could give 6 stars….I would! Nita and Marty’s Encantada was simply beautiful. Michael was extremely helpful and took great care of us. Priscilla’s breakfasts were delicious. We so enjoyed sitting on the patio and having breakfast and French press coffee. We loved everything about Encantada. We didn’t want to leave. Bed ultra comfy and bedding superb. We also did massages which were great & Host even booked us some excursions. Don’t hesitate to book!

We loved our stay at Encantada! Although we didn’t get to meet the hosts while they were on their own vacation, we were still greatly taken care of by their staff, especially Michael. The breakfasts were incredible and the spa cabana on site absolutely wonderful. I would highly recommend staying here.

Marty and Nita were the best hosts. The Bnb was in a great location, quiet, private, and well stocked with a variety of extras you don’t get at other Air bnbs. Hosts went above and beyond to inform us of activities, dos and don’ts of Costa Rica, and even booked activities for us upon request. I’ve traveled a lot and this was the best Airbnb experience I’ve had. Would highly recommend.

What a wonderful little hidden gem. The staff is very kind and helpful. Maychel was a friend by the time we left I’ll miss Priscillas incredible omelettes. They have cute dogs and cats! Also, there’s a beautiful jungle path down to the river. We loved the art and decorations. Jacuzzi’s wonderful. What a great experience!

Amazing hosts. The place had a spectacular view. The hot tub and pool were an awesome touch. The hosts were proactive, kept in touch to checkin and make sure everything was acceptable. Location was a little tricky with dirt road entrance for only about five minutes. Was close to the lake and activities. We had an amazing time and would definitely recommend!!

10/10 recommend! It was the most peaceful and luxurious feeling to start our trip in Costa Rica and the perfect homebase for 4 days in arenal area. The listing honestly undersells it - the daily breakfast was incredible, I loved doing yoga and meditations in the screened in outdoor space, and the massages they arranged on site were done in a screened in cabana with the best views of flora and fauna I’ve ever had from a spa! Like rest of what we experience in Costa Rica, recommend having a AWD/high clearance car like a Subaru as it is up a dirt hill.

Wonderful stay. Very intimate BnB. Only two rooms plus a separate villa for rent. Lush jungle gardens surround the place. A short downhill walk takes you to a nice creek. There is a nice dipping pool plus a jacuzzi. The room and queen size bed were very comfortable. The on-site manager (Michael) saw to it that our needs were met. He recommended area restaurants. We had most of our evening meals at Restaurante El Patio. Food was good and well presented. Very nice staff. Priscilla made our daily breakfast with a variety of options. Always tasty! Angel the resident dog greated us every morning. I can't say the same about Cinco the sometimes friendly and often at times aloof cat. Free laundry (one load) service is provided, definitely a plus!

We stayed in the Parrot Room of the main B&B rather than the holiday cottage, but wanted to leave a review of our amazing stay with Marty, Nita and their pets

Wonderful hosts who have thought of everything in the home that they've designed, built and clearly love. The parrot room itself has all that you need for the stay, including fridge with some welcome drinks, a comfy (massive) bed and other essentials (binoculars, sunscreen, poncho etc). The shower is powerful and just needs a little second to warm up and water from the taps is drinkable. We also enjoyed sitting right outside with the little table/chair or the hammock swing with the nature sounds and views.

Breakfast each morning was one of the nicest we have enjoyed, prepared freshly by Priscilla. The best omelets we've had with such good taste inside and out, plus a full range of other options (you select the night before whatever you fancy).

Nita and Marty encouraged us to enjoy the property "as our home", and we had a lovely day staying by the pool with the idyllic volcano views. There is a little trail on the property that runs down to a creek and we enjoyed seeing various wildlife (birds, hummingbirds, lizards, frogs) right on the doorstep.

We also took advantage of the ability to arrange massages on-site with Julie which was super relaxing with the natural soundtrack of the forest.

Our stay was over Christmas, and we arranged for Mira to cook for us as offered for a private dining on Xmas evening itself. We had a delicious set of courses which left us stuffed and ready to roll back to our room.

The road to the property will be easier in an SUV/4x4 (like many in Costa Rica), but again Marty/Nita planned everything and have blocks to help with traction when wet and we saw motorbike and sedan make it fine - the flip side of being closer to the forest out of the village. That said, it's a quick 5min drive to a number of great restaurants locally (we tried the full list of suggestions during our stay and had great food everywhere).

Overall a fantastic stay with wonderful hosts, delicious food, private nature and volcano views from the doorstep. You don't need anything else!

Lovely jungle experience

Beautiful property with lots of amenities. Flowers, birds, howler monkeys, etc…can be enjoyed throughout the property. The massage hut, on site, was outstanding!!! Many restaurants and activities within walking distance.

This place was magical! It’s hard to even put into words how great this stay was! Thanks so much for sharing this place with us and the hospitality! We will remember this place forever!

First of all we LOVED it! Secondly, this location was nestled on a private hillside looking out at Arenal Volcano’s 5,400 ft Peak, felt very comfortable. It also felt we were somewhere in Italy or Hawaii! We have visited quite a few AirBNB’s in our time. However, my wife and I cannot stop thinking about this place! Beautiful, peaceful, tranquil is an understatement! The property even has their own private hiking trail down the hill, around back that leads to a peaceful stream! Pure bliss! Do yourself and significant other a favor- BooK! You won’t be disappointed. Michael was a fantastic host and the breakfast (included) was delicious, and private. 10/10 Thank you so much. Brendan and Ann

Paradise! Wonderful gourmet breakfasts. Beautiful jungle surrounding. Woke up to Howler monkeys calling, saw amazing birds and a coati all from the balcony. Horseback ride to hidden water falls a highlight. Hosts very responsive.

This was truly and amazing place to stay! It is more of an oasis than a B&B. The room, property, expansive views, gardens and location were absolutely fantastic and we enjoyed every minute of the 5 days we stayed there. The owners are absolutely wonderful and went above and beyond to add a personal touch. Amazing homemade breakfast (included) on the veranda was a great start to each day. Highly recommended!

We had an amazing stay and got to see some toucans and some coatis right from the pool. It was a really beautiful and peaceful location. We can’t recommend it enough.

We had an amazing stay and got to see some toucans and some coatis right from the pool. It was a really beautiful and peaceful location. We can’t recommend it enough.

One of the best Airbnb I’ve ever stayed at easily! They had made to order breakfast for every morning we stayed! 1 load of laundry is included with your stay and every additional load is $10! They had everything for us from snacks to wine to toiletries to sunscreen to bug spray towels. Everything we needed is there. The place is located right in the middle of the rainforest so you will be falling asleep to nature. Sounds like frogs birds, wind chimes, rain, and much more. We chose to do the massages that is not included in the price of the Airbnb, but it is well worth it because it is very soothing and it is located on the premises down a few steps from where you get breakfast. If you will be staying here, I highly recommend getting a massage. The host is very attentive and responsive to any questions and concerns that you may have and anytime we needed to speak to her. She was able to get back to us very very quickly. There are cats and dogs roaming around the house that are friendly.

My family had a wonderful vacation!

Nita and Marty, Thanks for sharing your home with us! We had a wonderful time.

Great little house with a pool and jacuzzi in a unique mountain side location within the rain forest.

Thanks for sharing this magical place with us. It’s very secluded, a world away from busy la fortuna. The welcome bundle was a lovely touch. The kitchen is really well equipped. We loved the pool and hottub, watching hummingbirds from the patio and exploring the rainforest trail.

The first 2 days of our stay, we had the Toucan room. There is Lot’s of evidence that Nita and Marty put a lot of thought and love into creating their place. We had a chance to sit with them both and talk about travel and how they came to establish their place so it felt more like we were visiting family and they made us feel right at home. They have a staff on site, but unfortunately their chef got hurt and was unavailable, so Marty was the one who cooked us daily breakfast. He “put his foot in it” as we say at home. The eggs Benedict were just amazing. The couple shared a lot about the wild life they had in the area and were extremely knowledgeable when asked questions about what to do. The room had a very comfortable queens sized beg. It was prepared with a folder of details, so while staying at Nita and Marty’s place you could certainly have all your options laid out for you, or do nothing at all and stay at the place and feel at peace and right at home.

This was part 2 or our 4 night stay at Nita and Marty’s place. We moved over to the Parrot room. This room had the king size bed, seemed slightly bigger than the other, but no less comfortable. Nita and Marty do not skimp on the details of their guests. Both rooms were complete with everything you need to have an amazing stay in their area. One of the mornings we had to leave pretty early for a tour, and they prepared a takeaway breakfast that was so thoughtful and made with care. We were so impressed by their hospitality during our entire stay. Nita and Marty are terrific hosts.

This place is gorgeous! Very secluded and quiet too. Breakfast was cooked to order every day. We would definately recommend it.It is a bit of a drive into town (La Fortuna), so a rental car would be a good idea.

Beautiful BnB with fantastic hosts!

Absolutely beautiful! This property gave us just what we needed. Such a private, peaceful and relaxing get away. The property had a spanish tropical style with lush jungle scenery right out your door with a picture perfect view of the volcano Arenal. We loved the sound of the wildlife waking us in the morning. We were able to see a tucan, capuchin monkey and a montezuma right off the patio. The breakfasts that were prepared every morning were very fresh and delicious. Our host was very friendly, communicative, greeted us daily, and informative on the local things to do. Our room had everything we needed with a one time complimentary mini-bar. This place is highly recommended. We LOVED it!

We have been traveling in Costa Rica for 3 months and this is one of the most peaceful places we have stayed in Costa Rica. The place is extremely private and nestle among beautiful landscaped gardens that melt into the rainforest. The walking trail to the creek is lovely as well as the hammock, pool and patios right next to the house. The house has more than everything you need and extremely well designed. The whole place is eccentric and cozy making you feel right at home. The kids loved the toys. We all loved relaxing whiling listening to all the birds and frogs. Our only regret is we couldn’t stay longer, hopefully we will be able to visit again in the future.

This place is stunning. If you are looking for something more low key from La Fortuna , I definitely recommend!!! Beautiful views and the breakfast was wonderful!

Absolutely Beautiful

I must say the location of the property on the side of a steep hill surrounded by the regenerating rain forest offered lots of opportunities to see and hear colourful birds and the occasional animals including monkeys. Very beautiful and lush!

Absolute hidden gem near Costa Rica's La Fortuna area. The best chocolate we had entire trip was a welcome gift. View of stars is phenomenal. If you are visiting La Fortuna, a great different area that is similar to Monteverde and different climate even though 25 min away. Crazy number of personalized touches throughout property showing their passion for providing guests with a slice of paradise. In conclusion, awesome location in heart of Costa Rica's natural beauty, offering adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, and overall an exceptional experience.  I loved Nita's personal touch, I noticed it all! It was so peaceful and colorful – she went beyond as far as thinking of everything a person could use. I really enjoyed the stay there! 

Stunning place! Exotic paradise, the monkeys, the birds, the jungle, the views add to that the pools and the jacuzzis. Very comfortable guest house. Nita and Marty are a very nice couple that created this paradise.

  The Encantada guest house was wonderful. The house and the grounds were beautiful and peaceful.

Nita and Marty's house is set in an exceptional tropical garden! Flowers everywhere, hummingbirds, color, it's beautiful. The communication was perfect from start to finish and our hosts very helpful and very welcoming. We were able to discover the beautiful Arenal Volcano, go horseback riding with breathtaking views, the area is superb. Go there with your eyes closed!

 The Encantada guest house is beautiful and well equipped, but the real treasure is the garden that surrounds it. During the few days that my family and I spent in this peaceful environment on the edge of the rainforest, we also got to know the owners, who are very pleasant people. Communication and organization went smoothly. I highly recommende this place also to all travelers, as it is a good starting point for various excursions. I wish we will come back sometime.

Wonderful exchange at the Encantada GH. The house is very well equipped and the environment is amazing. We saw toucans, hummingbirds and monkeys in the "garden" which is actually a private jungle! Waking up to the sound of birds and monkeys, a small pool to relax at the end of the day and flowers everywhere everywhere! The communication with Nita was excellent and she gave us very valuable tips about the area and activities. A superb place to which we would return with great pleasure. Thank you!!!

  This place is amazing, the lodge is absolutly perfect, an excellent location, all you need is there and the pool and the jacuzzi with an amazing view to the lake. Nita and Marty look nice even if we didn't have lots of communication wih them. It was a perfect place to stay and el castillo is a Nice quiet village!

Nita and Marty are gracious hosts, welcoming us warmly and treating us so kindly during our entire stay. The house has everything you would possibly need and more, they really have thought of every detail to make it comfortable. The garden is absolutely beautiful and the location perfect to explore the area. Waking up to howler monkeys and birds chirping was so lovely! Marty and Nita were close by and always available, but there was complete privacy. We very highly recommend staying with them!

Beautiful home and gardens overlooking the lake. The house had everything we need and more. Nita and Marty are excellent hosts. We loved the hummock, rocking chairs, and enjoyed the jacuzzi at the end of the day. Thank you so much for a wonderful stay!

Nita and Marty’s place ranks among the very best. The location overlooking Lake Arenal is stunning, and what they have done with the property in the 15 years they’ve owned it is astonishing. Both the gardens and the guest house are extraordinarily beautiful. One thing to be aware of is the remoteness of the site: above a small village up a long and rough unpaved road. But we had no trouble finding it, due to Nita’s excellent directions. And once settled in (for a 5-night stay), we were very comfortable ranging out to explore the many surrounding attractions. Frosting on the cake were the many helpful suggestions and great information about all the options. Thanks so much for sharing your piece of paradise with us, Nita and Marty!

We had a wonderful stay at the Encantada Guest house.  Nita and Marty were exceptional hosts.  Nita had thought of everything and they went above and beyond as a hosts.  The house is really nice with plenty of room and beautiful views of the lush jungle out of the bedroom windows (where else could I sit in bed and have some of the best bird watching ever?) and of the gardens on all sides.   We enjoyed the panoramic views of the lake and volcano from the property as well. One evening the skies cleared completely and the stars were absolutely spectacular since there is no light pollution.   I mentioned that we are bird watchers, and you can't find a better place for that than here.  We watched a laughing falcon perched nearby for 30 minutes.  And there is a fleet of resident hummingbirds who "own" the garden and entertain.   The house sits on the same property as the larger B & B home, but the way the property is situated, your space feels totally private.  And the house has its own pool that is not shared by the B &B.   The house was spotless and had a totally outfitted kitchen with lots of thoughtful items like sugar, spices and tea bags available.  There is a small grocery store nearby and we stocked up there with breakfast items, then had dinner each night in El Castillo.  This is a small town, but still had some great places to eat including Amigos, La Ventanita, and Essence.  La Fortuna with all of its attractions was also easy to get to.   I do recommend an SUV for getting to the house as it is up a partly dirt road drive. The views of the valley on one side and the lake on the other make the drive well worth it.  Our thanks to Marti and Nita for a great stay in the Arenal area!

This house is unique in many ways. Kudos to Marty and Nita for having built this place up from the ground. El Castillo is Little Village with no more than 100 people and there’s much to do around the house not to mention reviews that are fantastic. I give Anita and Marty 10/10 for their hospitality and the overall experience as hosts

Pura vida

This is a well tended home in a wonderful town, perched above the spectacular Arenal Lake...While La Fortuna is over-run with tourists, El Castillo maintains the quaint charm of a small town...but still has access to all the area has to offer. The photos do not do the home justice - it is beautifully appointed with charming art and a good use of materials from the area - the gardens are lovely - a path to the river offers a chance for a refreshing swim. A note of caution that the driveway is quite steep, but they have paved it in all the right places so that you won't get stuck in the mud if it is raining!! We highly recommend a stay here. Thank you for hosting us!

Stunning location away from the tourist hot spots but near enough to National Parks and interesting places. The house has everything you need with lovely outside areas to enjoy the sunshine. Tropical rain during our visit mean’t lots of frogs in the garden. Great to wake up to birdsong and the howler monkeys in the distance. Nita and Marty made us very welcome and were nearby if we needed them but not intrusive. A great exchange.

True gem, sparkling clean house and thoughtful and kind hosts. I wish I could have spend more time in this little piece of paradise. Wonderful experience!

Nita and Marty were great and so was their house! Beautiful location with beautiful views. We loved it! Thanks!

This was a welcoming home in an amazing location. Long-range views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal were breathtaking. Monkeys called from the jungle outside of the back door. Colorful birds entertained us as they flew through the lovely garden. The local village seemed genuine, not touristy, and was only a short walk away. Nita provided helpful information for us, arranged a tour, and made sure we were looked after by a local friend.

Our stay was great - the location is beautiful and relaxing. Marty and Nita were away for most of our stay but still communicated with us regularly and helped us make reservations.

Amazing!! We loved every minute of our stay and wish we could have stayed longer. So glad we found this property - it is like heaven! Thanks Marty and Nita!

Unparalleled beauty. The room was perfect, clean and well equipped. The staff was friendly and welcoming. Priscila made a wonderful breakfast for us each morning and Michael did a wonderful job keeping the place going. We never met Nita and Marty as they were on their own vacation but we kept in contact through chat. Massages at the Banana Cabana were sublime but the real highlight for us was horseback riding with Lilander! It’s a tough hike to the waterfall but if you can do it, it’s worth it. The place is gorgeous. Quiet but still close to everything you need. We found the place without issue using Waze. Make sure you get an SUV for that driveway but the arrival is well worth it! Highly recommend.

Gorgeous property, quiet paradise in the jungle. We really enjoyed the breakfast each morning and the surrounding gardens. Only thing we’d change is a king size bed.

This place is a gem! My partner and I had a wonderful experience staying at Marty and Nita for a few nights. Enjoyed the delicious home cooked breakfast, the cozy pool with the view of the volcano, and the serenity of the river next to the property. We had a blast at this place?? The welcome chocolates and wine were amazing The onsite massage was AMAZING and highly recommended. Their generous recommendations before the trip about Costa Rica and activities were priceless and made us immediately felt at home upon our arrival. Definitely going back here again

First let me say--- If you desire a truly authentic Costa Rican Rainforest experience--- why would you stay anywhere else! The Encantada Guest House was perfect--Incredibly clean, beautifully appointed, and perfectly situated. Wildlife galore, your own pool, shared hot tub access, on-site massage and yoga studios, trail to a private creek---- all just so incredible--- and the hosts Marty & Nita are second to none!!!

6 stars out of 5.................... We had an absolutely fabulous time.,,,,, regardless of the endless rain! Tabacon, Sky Trek, the Desafio experience of rafting and rappelling was INCREDIBLE, the sodas------- La Ventanita was best for the view of Arenal (it was actually clear the 2nd time we went there) and peanut butter shakes, Howlers was best for the pizza--- truly awesome- what a cool place and friendly people, El Patio couldn't be more convenient, and Loma Linda------ the meal was 5-star with a view to boot.
To top it off there was even a Kingdom Hall just 34 minutes away from the Encantada Guest House so we were able to spend a day with members of our global family----- global peace and unity is not just a dream... Thank you for providing the opportunity to experience this beautiful piece of paradise and for your heart-warming kindness and attention to detail.

Great, secluded getaway surrounded by nature. Marty and Michael were very responsive. We had a lovely time!

Awesome place in a really quiet location close to some good restaurants and activities. Was nice to have coffee and breakfast each morning. The linens and towels were abundant and comfortable and the shower temp and pressure was awesome (rare lol). Kind hosts who care about their guests comfort.

This was all around one of the most completely awesome AirBnB locations we have ever been to. Very private, all the extra amenities you can imagine, great views, and the staff was beyond awesome. We felt like we made new friends. They made fantastic recommendations including the Arenal Observatory, La Ventanita, Los Lagos hot springs and best of all Essence Arenal. Awesome breakfast every morning along with smiles from the staff got our day started with a smile. They don’t have a perfect 5 star rating by accident.

We really enjoyed our stay. Breakfast was excellent. Fantastic service and friendly team. It was nice to get a little ways away from the crowds and hustle/bustle of La Fortuna. Still plenty to do within 10-15 minutes.

This hotel/B&B was fantastic. It has gorgeous views overlooking the Arenal Volcano, and is surrounded by lush green forest. I would highly recommend this place for anyone who is looking to get away from the hustle bustle of life and unwind. They have a pool and jacuzzi on site, breakfast was included with a lovely chef, and there is also an optional spa. It’s also a great spot if you’re looking for an adult only environment.

If you get the chance to book this place, do it! The hospitality, the surroundings, the private grounds including river, the breakfast overlooking the volcano, the frogs in the pool, and much more! If we visit costa rica again, we will definitely come back

Don't miss your chance to stay with Nita and Marty. There place in an oasis tucked on the side of the mountain. Beautiful vistas and a wonderful suite with everything you could possibly need. Their team was welcoming and very accommodating. Breakfast was delicious and served on their covered patio. We also booked a magical massage with the sounds of the jungle and the rain in the background. Their location is great with countless attractions to keep you occupied your entire stay. Be sure to plan some time to relax on the property as well. Thank you and we hope to be back soon.

Nita and Marty are great hosts. There B&B is truly one of a kind, very beautiful and well maintained. They help with alot of local recommendations and are very friendly!

My family loved it here .. The house was awesome and we were all in awe of the beautiful surroundings. Marty was very helpful and clear in his instructions for the home and gave some great advice for things to do in the area .. We definitely made some great memories here thanks to Marty and Nita’s beautiful place .

Loved the property and location - El Castillo is a hidden gem close to La Fortuna and Arenal, and this home is a perfect place to stay!

Marty and Nita are excellent hosts and their place is a beautiful home in the jungle where we saw monkeys, parrots and toucans. Loved the a la carte breakfast, views of the volcano from the pools and warm reception! Lots of outdoor activities to do in the area such as waterfalls, hiking and hot springs.

Awesome place, great breakfast, amazing local tours and horseback riding. highly recommended

You will not be disappointed! Very safe, easy to get to, and beautiful. Many small touches, amazing hosts, and close to Arenal and La Fortuna. Our family with teenagers LOVED IT!

This is a place I would highly recommend! It’s located in the middle of the rainforest with beautiful surroundings and the wilderness just outside the door. Nita & Marty are both very friendly and you can expect to get local recommendations and they will book experiences for you if you ask. They are very talkative so expect to discuss this and that during breakfast. This is one of the most stunning Airbnb’s I have stayed at, and you will need a 4 wheel car to get here, don’t expect anything else (true for Costa Rica in general if you’re on a roadtrip like we were). Really loved the Arenal area, with zip-lines, hot springs, hikes, and amazing animals everywhere. Do pack your stuff accordingly, it is really humid there, so expect your clothes to be wet (they offer laundry). Finally, what you see on the pictures is what you get, and more. Do try the pools out, let them order a massage for you and just relax. Restaurants around are actually really nice. Would come back any second!

Everything we wanted for the beginning of our Costa Rica adventure. Nita and Marty were great at answering all of my questions ahead of time — communicating about activities in the area, the check in process, even suggesting the best routine for our arrival (on Christmas Eve). We felt completely welcomed as a lesbian couple and they went above and beyond with gifts for our 6 year old son and family. They even decorated with lights and a Christmas tree! The house was even better than the listing shows…very private but very safe. The grounds were beautiful. Both bedrooms were very comfortable and the bathroom was huge! Great location. We will definitely be back!

Our stay at Encantada Arenal was wonderful! Nita and Marty are great hosts. We stayed in the Toucan Suite from December 15-20. The room was really great, and we had access to all the amenities that we needed. The bed was comfortable, and the shower was relaxing. WiFi and cell service were a bit spotty, but that's to be expected for the remote area; we didn't have any major issues streaming a movie or live sports show at night. The pool was a bit cold (the sun wasn't out much while we were there and it is a rain forest) but there is a great jacuzzi with an amazing view of the lake. Breakfast was consistently delicious each morning. We took advantage of the couples massage and one private chef dinner, which were both totally worth it. The area is full of activities and attractions; the highlights for us were visiting La Fortuna and the Sky Adventures park. You will certainly need a 4x4 to access the property and our Suzuki Vitara had no issues.

Nita and Marty's property was beautiful! They were so welcoming. The bed was really comfortable. Peaceful surroundings teeming with wildlife. Truly a full service bed and breakfast with a high attention to detail on the little things that make a stay comfortable.

My wife and I loved Encantada. Nita and her husband are perfect hosts. The property is so private and beautiful. We loved every minute of our stay. The breakfast was delicious. My wife is Jewish and when Nita found out we returned from our days adventure to find a beautiful menorah and candles. We would definitely comeback and stay again. Pura Vida!

Great egg breakfast by Priscilla, Marty was very helpful with a flat tire we had and Nita is full of ideas and tips on the region, steered us right into the nearby hanging bridges park, butterfly and volcano observatories. Loved the beds, firm and large enough you can land a small plane on, good bathbathroom and shower. You’ll definitely need a know how to drive a good 4x4 car to reach all points in the Arenal region as everything you’ll visit, including Encantada, is basically built on the slope of the mountain. Pura vida !

The casita was beautifully decorated and the surrounding gardens were stunning. We enjoyed waking to sounds of bird song and sitting on the front porch watching the humming birds as we drank our morning coffee. Nita and Marty did an excellent job sharing fun things to do and places to go in the area. The whole experience was restful, peaceful and fun!

EXCELLENT STAY & very romantic. We could not recommend this place more. This far exceeded any stay I have had. I wish there was space for more details! We were welcomed by Marty and Nita who were very warm & friendly, and offered a tour of the grounds. They had set up our room to have a bottle of wine, chocolates, robes & slippers, a personalized card, and snacks and waters. The room was beautifully furnished, extremely clean, and stocked with anything we might need. Truly they have thought of it all. The bed & pillows were also very comfy and we slept like babies. We LOVED the jungle hike and private creek! The property itself is pristine- they have a spa, yoga studio, pool and hot tub, and private creek as well as an incredible breakfast by Priscilla (the omelet was our favorite). We had massages & facials by Julianna and Fabian- he had Julianna and said it was the best massage of his life. We enjoyed the services so much that we got massages a second time the next day. Paradise.

Nita and Marty are awesome! They have a paradise of a property. Breakfast was fabulous. Our only regret was that we didn’t have more time. It was a perfect location away from the city in the jungle, but close enough to get to our activities around Arenal within 10-15 minutes. I’ve stayed in many Airbnbs and this one was by far my favorite. Birds, butterflies, hummingbirds galore and an amazing views.

 We enjoyed our stay in El Castillo. The accommodation was clean, spacious and well supplied with everything we needed. Peaceful outside spaces were appreciated with chairs in sun and shade as desired. Nita and Marty are kind and accessible when needed. Previous reviews mention the road up - we found it easy up and down with a firm track. Enjoyed a few local restaurants as recommended by our hosts.    


 

Hubby and I were wrapping up 11 days adventuring around Costa Rica for our anniversary. Of the 3 loactions booked this was our favorite. This cozy spot is in a great location, checkin and out was super easy. The property is beautiful! Great food and adventures everywhere.

Absolutely beautiful home designed & built by the amazing hosts Nita & Marty. Stunning gardens with all the right amenities to make anyone feel right at home. We truly enjoyed our stay as well as the included breakfast. Highly recommend to all visiting the Arenal area.

Private guesthouse with beautiful gardens and character.. We enjoyed our stay here.

We had a lovely stay here. We were the only actual guests at the time and Nita and Marty were out of town, so it was so quiet and we had the place all to ourselves! We got a driver through Daytrip from the airport and went straight to the BnB. They knew exactly where it was. We rented a car through Adobe and they actually delivered it for us the next morning to the house. You're a good 25 minute drive from La Fortuna, but you can come and go and you're not stuck in the tourist crowd. You're 25 minutes back to peace and the sounds of the rainforest. We had a great time. A trip we'll never forget. Thanks Nita! Sorry we missed you guys!

We loved Nita & Marty’s place! Beautiful details and surroundings. We had everything we needed and the caretakers were all wonderful. Nita & Marty helped us with booking the canyoning activity which was an amazing experience. We made a stop by La Ventanita for a bite and ate very delicious burritos with a beautiful view! We would love to return here in the future :) thank you Nita & Marty!

It is a great place to stay while in La Fortuna. Quiet and relaxing. It's highly recommended to have a 4x4.

Our stay at Encantada Arenal B and B was one of the great vacation experiences of my life! The location is the perfect balance of away-from-it-all rain forest seclusion and easy access to all the La Fortuna area has to offer. Our hosts Nita and Marty were warm and welcoming and treated us like royalty. The accommodations were comfortable, clean, and charming. Views are spectacular! Susan and I will recommend Encantada Arenal to friends and family with confidence.

The most amazing place, extremely beautiful. The best hosts in the world!

Amazing stay. Worth every penny. Would definitely return to this Airbnb without hesitation. The hosts were extremely warm and welcoming. They went above and beyond what they were required to do. Everything was clean. We loved the breakfast and the views of the volcano. Getting to the location from the airport can be a chore so you may want to consider renting a vehicle as the hosts suggest. If you consider renting a vehicle please be prepared for roads that are narrow, not fully paved, etc. If you’re looking for a place that offers tranquility, warmth, and connection to nature this place is perfect! This is easily one of the best Airbnb stays we’ve had. Thank you Marty & Nita for such a great time.

Breathtaking views, private and lush surroundings and 5 star service- amazing stay and value for the money. Nita booked our tours, recommended where to eat etc and all was spot on. The amenities did not overlook ANY small details. I am beyond impressed because I pack for every scenario and Anita already had it covered. Bug spray, first aid, toiletries, heaps of fresh towels - all that plus so much more! Binoculars, books, umbrellas, ponchos - everything you need. The grounds and home were so beautiful. How about picture perfect views of Arenal volcano from the infinity pool? Views across the jungle from the hot tub? Check and check. Beyond the room and surroundings, Nita’s staff are the cherry on top of it all. A warm welcome and help throughout our stay (including laundry service) from Michael. Five star cooking and breakfast service from Lena and Priscilla, not to mention friendly conversation and tips for our stay. Thank you so much for a perfect stay!

What a beautiful spot! We had a lovely visit and really enjoyed all of the amenities and recommendations! Marty and Nita were very helpful and responsive, making the visit smooth and restorative. Hope to be back one day!

Away in the jungle is this slice of heaven on earth. This amazing homes architecture and beautifully decorated rooms are set on hill with full view of Arenal Volcano. It was such a blessing beings guests of Marty and Nita. They were both jolly on the spot to make sure we had all we needed. Everything was very clean and tidy. Love the dogs and their affection as I was missing mine at home. Excellent hosts. Thank you both for making our 25 wedding anniversary a beautiful memory.

Nita and Marty were incredible hosts! This was our first time abroad and we felt welcomed at Encantada Arenal from the start. The breakfast was delicious, the massage beyond relaxing, and we loved being able to take advantage of the pool and jacuzzi after a long day of hiking etc. Laundry service was a huge help as well. Marty and Nita went above and beyond making us feel comfortable. We even got a flat tire during our trip and they recommended a close mechanic in La Fortuna to patch our tire and even took a look at our car to let us know how we should proceed. They also have very sweet dogs and cats on the property, which helped us feel right at home. The property itself is beyond amazing and you really get what you pay for and more (and pictures really don’t do it justice). 10/10! Thank you Marty and Nita for everything! Pura Vida!

We had a wonderful stay! The house was perfect for our family. The surroundings are beautiful and the house was a perfect size. We especially loved seeing the monkeys right outside our door! We did a few day trip excursions in the Arenal area and the house was in close proximity. Highly recommend this home!

What a lovely little paradise with wonderful hosts! Although I would’ve been content staying most of the day at the Airbnb, there were many drivable adventures nearby! Nita and Marty were helpful all the way through and all the special touches made our trip extra special. I will recommend to all my friends and family if they make the trip.

We visited Nita and Marty's place in mid - July 2023 during our honeymoon and it was the perfect end to our trip. Located about 10-20 min away from many of the main attractions that you may want to visit while staying in Arenal, but totally worth it!!! We were both so happy to be staying away from the hustle and bustle of all the resorts. Also THE VIEW, it. is. amazing! We had a great view of the volcano and got to hang out in the trees with monkeys, toucans and many other bird species that we otherwise would probably have missed. Nina was very proactive and provided us with a list of recommendations of things to do in the area, which was helpful. Nina, Marty & the staff were great and made us feel welcome, comfortable and cooked us a delicous breakfast every morning of our stay.

This place is beautiful and definitely worth a visit. We stayed for four nights after a long two weeks in Costa Rica, and it was a perfect place to relax. The property is beautiful, lots of nature to hear and see, and if you don’t feel like leaving too far there is a handful of good restaurants near by. The volcano came into clear view a few times which was lovely, and the howler monkeys made a visit twice. If you’re able, spoil yourself with a massage, it’s definitely worth it. I would recommend this stay to anyone.

The views are spectacular. The property is so well maintained. And the hosts were very knowledgable about the area and had great recommendations. The breakfasts were perfect. Thank you Nita and Marty.

We just finished a 7 day stay at this AMAZING AirB&B. Nita and Marty are the BEST hosts. We LOVED everything about it. This was our first trip to Costa Rica. Because of this positively amazing experience, it most definitely will not be our last. If you are looking for luxury accommodations and personable, friendly hosts .... look no further. You will be treated like royalty here. And you will feel like you are at home.

Loved our stay! Very well decorated inside and the gardening outside was a sight to behold. Of all the places we stayed on our trip, this was the only place I saw the fireflies! Gave it a truly magical sense. 10/10 would stay again. Try the ziplines nearby and Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurant. Great views of Arenal Lake and Volcano!

Excellent well appointed guest house that was perfect for a family of four. Pura Vida!

We were not ready to leave this little paradise tucked in the jungle. Had everything you need…gardens, pool, hiking, hammocks, hot tub….stunning views. Wish we spent more time at the B&B instead of running around. We did it all…booked the couples massage and the private chef. Everyone was very attentive.

Everything about the place is amazing! And anything that you could possible think of they know something about it ! Recommended amazing experiences and were very helpful thru the hole time we were there. Very private and amazing view every single day highly recommend.

Encantada B&B was exactly what we expected from the posting and the other reviews. It was both adventurous and relaxing. The perfect location to see the area. It was clean and felt like home. Nita and Marty were wonderful hosts. We enjoyed the pool & hot tub. And, of course, the view of Arenal Volcano.

NIta and Marty's home was amazing! SO peaceful and beautiful. We woke up to personalized breakfast and different types of animals every morning. It was really amazing. They also had so many recommendations for La Fortuna that we were never bored. I LOVED their path down to the stream on their property. It was beautiful. Highly recommend!

Nita and Marty were the absolute best! I literally felt right at home and they went above and beyond with any questions/assistance we needed. The place was absolutely beautiful as well, highly recommend it!

Great host - Special thanks
 
Squeaky-clean bathroom
 
Pristine kitchen
 
Spotless furniture & linens
 
Matched the description

 

Above and beyond amazing from start to finish. Best pancakes ive ever had. Gardens were amazing. They were so nice and respectful. If we go back to that area we will definitely book with them again. It was hard to leave.
Nita...Airbnb is asking me to write to you to tell you what you can do differently to make a stay better ... nothing, do nothing different, it was perfect. Thank you again for an absolutely amazing place to come home to after our adventures.

It was a great stay for our first time in Costa Rica. with all of the last minute shuffling, for our last minute holiday weekend trip, our stay here was meant to be! Thank you to the guest who had a last minute cancelation, and allowed us to squeeze into this booking.

A beautiful place with friendly, welcoming hosts. The house is as described and has a honest feel to it. Nita and Marty (plus their friendly dogs!) met us on arrival and settled us in, showing us the important bits and offering local recommendations. It is remote and peaceful, and sleeping to the rainforest chorus was a pleasure. Highly recommended.

Loved our stay at Nita’s! The grounds were absolutely breathtaking and the house was comfortable and beautiful. We enjoyed to walk down to the stream!

Loved this property. Surrounded by beauty everywhere. The sounds of the animals and rain will stay with me forever.    


 

Encantada Arenal B&B and guest house is set on the edge of the rainforest with amazing views of the volcano and lake Arenal. The property is peaceful, beautifully kept and full of character. Marty and Nita treated us like family. We saw toucans and heard monkeys every day. The location is so close to everything we wanted to do: zip lines, hiking, great restaurants, but it felt like we were the only ones there. Can’t wait to plan a return trip.    

 

This stay is in the perfect location and looks even better than the photos! You’re close enough to all the La Fortuna and Arenal activities but private enough to really unwind and enjoy the peaceful nature scape. We even had some of the best animal sightings right on the property. The hosts are super responsive and you’ll definitely feel right at home.

Beautiful grounds. Lovely clean house, comfortable beds.

Nita and Marty were fantastic hosts! We loved every minute of our stay and would love to go back!

At Encantada Arenal we enjoyed the Volcano view . Felt Comforting, serene, well kept, included a great homemade breakfast to start your day, cooked by the hosts themselves! We loved the environment as a whole . Even includes a spa room with jungle view. I loved the Chakra Balancing massage there! Intimate atmosphere with hosts Nita and Marty! Their extended pet family was always popping around to make you feel welcome too! Don’t be deterred by the road up to Encantada Arenal, it’s worth getting there! Be aware you may not have internet in the country, when you are communicating with hosts. We did have good Wi-Fi once settled in!
Take their lead on suggestions for activities and food! Anything you didn’t know to bring, even bug spray and rain ponchos were available! Five star visit with Marty and Nita as guides to the Costa Rica life,  for first time visitors especially ! Pure Vida ! Dan and Diane    




 

 I was overcome with emotion when we arrived, the property is a oasis of beauty. Nita and Marty were fantastic hosts. You want for nothing here. They supplied much more than we had expected. The room was comfortable and beautifully decorated. The pool was refreshing and well maintained. Breakfast was great and we had the private chef come which was delicious. Yes you should have 4 x 4 to get up the long driveway. We walked the private pathway down to the stream, very serene. If we could give them a 10 star rating we would. You will not be disappointed if you have the chance to stay here. We were even lucky enough to see the top of volcano Arenal in the morning on our last day. Thank you so much Nita and Marty

We really enjoyed our stay at Encantada. Due to a mixup we ended up staying in the guesthouse. El Castillo is a great out-of-the-way location and the property is beyond beautiful. Enchanting! Marty and Nita were great hosts, very responsive and made delicious breakfasts! We would stay here again.

Nita and Marty were AMAZING hosts. We absolutely loved every single thing about our stay there. Would definitely come back again. It’s beautiful and clean. Nita was very responsive and so helpful with everything.

This Airbnb is set in a beautiful, well maintained garden. We stayed in the stand-alone guest house where as Nita noted on a cute sign: "Bed and Breakfast, You Make Both." She generously supplied eggs, juice, english muffins, coffee, etc. The guest house itself doesn’t have a territorial view - you have to walk up to the small dipping pool for that. (The weather wasn’t conducive to taking a dip.) Nita and Marty were very responsive to any questions and needs that arose - including helping free our car from having gotten stuck on the driveway. While we were there, they improved the driveway considerably. It was a quiet and peaceful place to stay. We enjoyed walking 1-3 kilometers from the guest house to various restaurants nearby. As well as seeing toucans and capuchin monkeys on the property.

Marty and Nita were wonderful hosts. The rooms were exactly as pictured. They were so helpful with tips on activities and restaurants in the area. They were gracious hosts. Their property is BREATHTAKING. It was a perfect place to relax, listen to the rain, listen to the wildlife and disconnect. We stayed for our 20th wedding anniversary and would highly recommend. Nita takes great pride in her home and it’s well deserved. Side note: being in the rainforest means bugs and critters. Nita and Marty do such a great job and cleanliness I was SHOCKED at the lack of critters around! Do yourself a favor and BOOK IT!

Great stay. Nita/Marty was very responsive and attentive to my needs.

Absolutely loved this place- highly recommend for immersion in nature with toucans and other beautiful birds

Very nice place to refer :)

If you plan to stay in the Arenal/La Fortuna area, stop browsing the app and book your stay here! The grounds/gardens are breathtaking. The hot tub is the perfect spot to rest and relax after a day of sightseeing. There were so many thoughtful touches that made for an incredible stay: a bottle of wine and chocolates upon arrival, delicious home cooked breakfasts, robes in the rooms, and any travel essentials you might need (bug spray, spf, umbrellas, etc.). Marty and Anita have gone the extra mile to make sure their guests have a great stay.

Logement merveilleux au cœur de la jungle d’El Castillo, ville beaucoup plus paisible que la Fortuna. Petit déjeuner très bon, toujours de bons conseils, je recommande fortement ! Merci encore pour tous vos conseils sur le Costa Rica, je reviendrai sans hésiter

Wonderful accommodation in the heart of the jungle of El Castillo, a much more peaceful town than La Fortuna. Very good breakfast, always good advice, I highly recommend! Thank you again for all your advice on Costa Rica, I will definitely be back

We throughly enjoyed hosts Marty and Nita. They have created a wonderful and grand structure located In the most magical of locations. The village near is wonderful and many local attractions. Nearby La Fortuna has a great charm. Breakfast served is amazing, choose your favorite, super delicious! I must recommend couples message, I felt mobility beyond normal afterwards and so calming in their private facility. Highly recommend.

Wow. This place was the best Airbnb we've ever stayed at. It was my S/Os birthday and we wanted to do something very special, so we chose this as a starting point for our trip. Nita and Marty have done a wonderful job building this place up and providing a wonderful retreat for their guests. The views of Arenal are outstanding (if you are lucky enough for her to come out from behind the clouds) and you are basically positioned within the jungle with tons of wild life to see from the back porch. We were very close to everything; all the hot springs, hikes, La Fortuna waterfall, Lake Arenal, and the town of La Fortuna. Also, this place is a true "BnB" in that Nita and Marty will make you a top notch breakfast each morning. We started our busy days out with fresh fruit, local coffee, juice, yogurt, Eggs Benedict, frittatas, omelets, and pancakes. So good. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking to visit the Arenal area in Costa Rica.

This is a wonderful place to stay around Lake Arenal. Lots to see and do around. The property is beautiful. And both Nita and Marty are great hosts!

I can't say enough about this amazing place. From the small touches in the room that made it extremely comfortable (all the toiletries a person could need including lotion, tooth brush, razors, qtips, ect), a mini fridge with wine/canned cocktails/juices and fresh water, a coffee service area, tons of towels, bug spray/sun screen available for use. This place was more than I even expected from the pics. The pool was refreshing and had a great view of the jungle and the trail down to the jungle river was a cool touch. They even have a little screened private area to do yoga/stretch. The breakfast every morning blew my mind, as I've never experienced this. You can just tell all the little touches they put into it. They are an inspirational couple for sure and you can tell they are living that pura vida life, for real. you can also tell they aren't in it just for the $ but to allow others to experience true peace. Will be back!

Wow what an amazing stay! My husband and I came here for a few nights on our honeymoon and absolutely loved it. The place is so beautiful in person, pictures don’t do it justice. The welcome treats and beverages were really appreciated. The grounds are gorgeous and the room had so many thoughtful touches. Nina and Marty are wonderful hosts, very personable and welcoming but also give you your privacy. The breakfast was so delicious! We woke up each morning with coffee and just sat outside enjoying the views and sounds of the jungle. Treat yourself to a massage, such a serene setting! My only regret is not setting aside more time to enjoy the pool, hot tub and the grounds. Don’t hesitate to book, it is one of our favorites airbnbs ever!

An adorable home fully appointed with everything you might need to make yourself at home, including a hammock and a very comfortable bed. Hosts Marty and Nita were so helpful, sharing insights about nearby little town of El Castillo and helping us feel at home in the town as well as the guesthouse. We particularly enjoyed the new community center, Howlers Bar and Grill, and La Ventanita Cafe. We enjoyed the sky tram, sky walk that included two waterfalls and two very long very high suspension bridges! My kids will be proud I crossed those. Lots of memories at this lovely property...

This place was amazing. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle and with incredible views of the lake and volcano made this a special place. Our hosts, Nita and Marty, were very attentive and sweet. We had everything we needed and more. We did nearby hiking and zip lining and only had to drive a few miles so convenient.

A Gem in El Castillo
We loved our stay at Encantada. It was clean and well equipped. And it was perfect for the two of us, whether drinking coffee and listening to bird song in the morning to hiking in the jungle by the property (and seeing capuchin monkeys and hearing the howlers) to excursions to various attractions in the region. Nita and Marty are kind and generous hosts. They will make sure you have everything you need and are full of great suggestions on what to see and do. They will do just about anything to make your stay perfect.

Cozy cottage in scenic and quiet area
The cottage was cozy and comfortable and we enjoyed out stay. The road up to the property is rough and gets quite muddy in the rain so need the extra clearance of an SUV. We spent most days out and about but enjoyed relaxing in the hammock and hot tub in the evenings. The kitchen is small and basic but sufficient for our self-catering needs.

Encantada
We had a wonderful stay at Encantada. The house is close to activities, but far enough away to feel like you have privacy. Nita was helpful in planning meals and activities.

Place was amazing. Breakfast was so good. Was only 15 mins from la fortuna down town.

Nita and Marty were great hosts. Providing us with detailed instructions to get to their place, as it’s definitely off the beaten path, and we would be arriving straight from the airport in Liberia at night with no cell service (getting a Costa Rican SIM card the next day). The place was very clean and they provided lots of food for a few breakfasts as well as spaghetti for our arrival dinner (which I had requested as I knew we would be in late and not wanting to go out again). We managed to use the pool and the hot tub on the last day as it was a sunny day still once we got back to the Casita. The welcome book has lots of details about where to eat that is close by and we even managed to get the technology to work to watch a couple of DVDs (perhaps cause it’s old school and something we are familiar with). We didn’t do much cooking but the kitchen is well stocked. We ate two dinners at the Linda Vista restaurant (just around the corner) and one at La Ventanita (across the valley, near the Butterfly Conservatory - which we also visited and it was very good). We went to Eco Termales Hot Springs, which we booked ahead and that was great. We also did the North Fields Coffee and Chocolate tour with Alberto which was very well organized, informative and tasty. These are on the way into La Fortuna. You need your own car for this area I would say. The sky tram and the volcano hiking area are near by but we didn’t go to either. Very lush area. It did rain really hard one night and it comes quickly and then passes almost as quickly.    


 

It’s a giant villa up in the hills behind El Castillo. There are two guest suites, a guesthouse farther away, an open air kitchen area and corridors, an infinity pool, and a lower area that has a spa hut and small yoga hut. Nita and Marty live on the second floor. Two dogs and five cats roam the property. I’ve travelled all over and this AirBnB is impeccable. Nita went far beyond normal hosting or hotel standards to make sure the room is perfect and the experience memorable. Breakfast is made to order. The location is isolated but that’s part if the experience. It would be quite hard if not impossible to get up the hill to the house without an SUV. Overall an incredible AirBnB!

We spent two nights at Marty and Nita's little piece of paradise. We were easily able to find their place and were happy to have an SUV to get us to their property. It was a bumpy road surrounded by beautiful hillside leading us to their guest house. As we entered the gate we were greeted by their friendly dogs. Our children loved playing with them and especially loved exploring the grounds over to the private stream. They spent evenings swimming in the pool and in the hot tub, listening to the beautiful sounds of nature. Marty and Nita graciously set up a horseback riding excursion for our family. This was an unbelievably memorable experience. Our guide Lilander was extremely helpful and made sure that our children were comfortable throughout the entire 3 hour trip, finishing at a waterfall. Back at the house, we had all of the amenities we needed and felt right at home thanks to Marty and Nita!

Staying at Encantada Arenal B&B was out of the world amazing. From check in to check out, Nita and Marty were great. They provided great local recommendations for food and adventures, provided delicious breakfast, and were delightful hosts. All amenities were spot on and the wildlife sightings were a huge surprise. We will definitely book again!
Thank you so much for welcoming us into your home. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our honeymoon. Thanks for the great conversation and recommendations. Take care and we plan on visiting again. Gavra and Will.”

Nita and marty are excellent hosts!!! Always willing to make our stay the best! Super attentive, gentle and friendly! The place is spectacular!!

We loved our stay at the Parrot room! An authentic bed and breakfast experience with all the amenities you’d find at a hotel. We particularly loved the hot tub views, walking the garden trails and just birdwatching from the porch. We highly recommend booking private chef Mira for dinner and utilizing the on-site spa; our massages were amazing. Nita and Marty are great hosts, happy to assist with anything you might need and full of great recommendations.

 

This was a truly amazing place, and we really enjoyed exploring the area. We tried a lot of Nita’s recommendations, especially for restaurants and the hot springs, and they were all amazing.


 

This home is incredible - private, surrounded by jungle sounds, kind people, and a yoga studio. A great place for our honeymoon and we hope to return soon!

Generous, lovely hosts and a unique, special and quiet location ….near all the activities of Arenal but away from the craziness of Fortuna! We loved all the unexpected extras and our massages. Thank you Nita and Marty

Right from the outset, Marty & Nita made us feel at home. Nita helped us organise activities that required booking in advance. This gave us a full experience on our trip including a horse ride to a waterfall, bathing in hot springs & a breathtaking hike at nearby Sky Adventures. We loved being tucked away by the volcano in sleepy El Castillo & being able to drive into La Fortuna (25mins) - giving us a private & peaceful place to stay, close enough to the action. The guest house is cosy & surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens with hummingbirds & butterflies. The hosts have made a gorgeous little hideaway, complete with pool, hot tub, spa & a gentle, private trail down to a babbling river. I highly recommend Encantada guesthouse for a family stay. Knowing we would be there with over Christmas, Marty & Nita went above & beyond with Christmas decorations - even turning up on Christmas morning with gifts for the kids ♥? Their kindness & care make this place a real gem!

 
This place is absolutely amazing! The room, house and garden are just spectacular. Nita and Marty went above and beyond. They helped to plan attractions for us and had great advice about what to do in the area! Breakfast was delicious and the room had everything we could need. We definitely will be back! P.S. We got the massage at the Banana Cabana and it was worth it! Best message we ever had and listening to the sounds of the jungle transported us to another world!


 

We loved our stay at Encantada Arenal. It's a quiet property with intimate proximity to the rainforest, which is exactly what we wanted! We heard monkeys and a variety of birds. The Toucan Suite is cozy, with wonderful amenities and a very comfortable bed. The pool is as stunning in real life as the photos, with a view of Arenal. Nita and Marty's hospitality was warm and inviting - they made us feel at home, and were always available to answer questions, but were otherwise respectful of our privacy. Their two friendly puppies were such fun. Breakfast is a real treat - the hosts go above and beyond to provide a personalized and special experience. What a dream!

Beautiful and quiet setting in the lush forest! It was hard to leave the property. Nita was extremely kind and accommodating. Breakfast was a delicious and a wonderful way to start a day of adventure. The room had all the amenities a traveler would need. So much thoughtfulness has gone into every detail. I hope to be back soon!

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay, a relaxing time in a wonderful location.    


 

We were so lucky to have found this house for our honeymoon! It has a beautiful "theatre" style view from the balcony of the tree line with all kinds of birds flying around. Howler monkeys live near by so we heard them often and got a good view of them one day on hike up the mountain. Breakfast was included and the choices were delicious! We rented a car so we ventured out on different excursions everyday only 15-45 minutes away depending on what we had planned. Although the house is shared with other renters and the hosts, our suite titled the Parrot Room was off to the side so we still felt like we had privacy and could socialize in the kitchen patio or hot tub space when we wanted. This was a very intimate space and a unique way to relax and enjoy the rainforest setting.    

 


 

Hosts were amazing and very thoughtful - the rooms are stocked with everything you could possibly think of. It feels like you have your own private rainforest there. We had a massage in the morning, with the natural sounds in the background it was stunning. Would definitely go back!

My wife Heidi and I began our 1st wedding anniversary vacation at Marty and Nita’s and when it was time to leave we were sad to go. The overall vibe they have created at their property is truly unique and if your looking for something “off the beaten path” then this is it. The accommodations at Hacienda Encantada provided everything you needed and more. The kitchen was very well equipped, the bed was super comfy and provided a perfect slumber, an awesome walk in shower, a private pool with a fantastic view of Lake Arenal, amazingly landscaped grounds plus two of the coolest pups who visited us daily. We highly recommend Marty and Nita’s and look forward to returning!


 

Absolutely wonderful. Homey, comfortable, charming guest house in a beautiful setting. You definitely need an SUV to get there and you will be glad you arrived in daylight, not only because it's easier to find the road but also it's easier to navigate in the dark once you've gone up there in the light. Once you're there, you won't want to leave. The property feels like your own slice of heaven. Hosts provided plenty of written instructions including specific directions to get there and things to do in the area. Several decent restaurants and a small market close by. We'll stay longer next time!

Marty and Niki were great hosts and sorted a fantastic horse trek for us

 Such a fantastic place that I would recommend to all
Large clean great location private pool well provisioned...Be advised its a bit of a rough road up here.

Beautiful home and garden, hot tub, pool, path to stream, beautiful gardens and home, kitchen gift basket, all kitchen appliances working, dvd movie selection, detailed activity list for the area.

Lovingly furnished, nice details, everything you need and a fantastic garden. A bit far from the mark, but no problem with a car!

Delighted Pura Vida!
The house allows you direct contact with nature as it has a beautiful path that ends in a creek. Great for nature lovers and adventurers.
The internet was very bad at first but then sorted it out. The owners are super attentive.

Owners Note: The Wifi is usually very good but we are remotely located and in the jungle  it can be spotty at times.

Not a single detail has been overlooked. Nita and Marty have thought of everything! Beautiful, comfortable accommodations, delicious breakfast with so many options, fantastic welcome package including helpful tips for the area, treats galore, etc, etc. You’ll love the infinity pool overlooking the jungle. Watching the plethora of colourful birds, monkeys and the occasion cute little gecko never gets old. Nita and Marty went out of their way to help us with transportation and we couldn’t be more grateful. Finally we enjoyed the company of their two sweet dogs Bo and Angel. You won’t be disappointed if you choose Nita and Marty’s hospitality. Thanks for a great stay.

This place is a must visit! It's off the beaten path, yet close enough to everything you need. The grounds were impeccable, the view was breathtaking and there isn't enough room to write how fabulous the hosts are! Do yourself a favor and boot this stay immediately!

We enjoyed a very comfortable room in Marty and Nita’s B & B! Everything was perfect from the bed to the morning breakfast options. We had great communication with the hosts and they were very accommodating. The pool and bird watching was our favorite things to do there!! Highly recommend staying with them!!!

 
What a gem in the rainforest! We honeymooned here for a full week & loved it. We wanted to relax & unwind - this was the perfect place. If you're hesitant about going to a Spanish speaking country - like my husband - then you'll love having Marty & Nita as your hosts. They're ex-pats, they helped us with the car rental, made local reservations for us, and gave us all the insight we needed to have a wonderful week. We loved staying in a private location rather than the touristy La Fortuna. It's 20-30 min drive outside of La Fortuna - totally worth it. The location was quiet & they have a jungle backyard. Howler monkeys visited us, we saw toucans, we bird watched every morning, hiked to the creek. Not to mention the view of the volcano & lake. The food nearby in El Castillo was delicious - we didn't have a bad meal or wait for a table. The breakfast is amazing, it's close to activities people shuttle in from La Fortuna to do, it's just like the pics, & they have everything you need.




 

Nita’s place was simply amazing! Definitely a do again! Both Marty and Nita were so welcoming and provided wonderful accommodations! The property itself was beautiful and the breakfasts were wonderful! Loved the intense rain storms, very peaceful!

 

This BnB is an amazing location with breathtaking views and very unique pool to go with it. Nita and Martey are very sweet and their breakfast is delicious. They make your comfort their priority and I'm so grateful to be their guests. They are very considerate and even packed us some breakfast to go the day we were leaving even though it was pretty early in the morning. I recommend this house to anyone wanting to explore the Arenal volcano area in Costa Rica. Nita and Marty will take great care of you.

I finally got the chance to go on a vacation of a life time ,after many nights of looking on the internet we came across the Encantada Guest House the price was reasonable so we booked the home for 7 days.After a long flight and the great directions Nita gave us we finally arrived I was not only amazed with the view of the Lake Arenal the Volcano and the beautiful rain forest from our Hacienda The guest house was also amazing clean and beautiful inside and out,It was also fully furnished bedding kitchen and bathroom. The out side had really relaxing areas with rocking chairs,Hammock and even a BBQ if you wanted.The next day we ventured out their was so much to see and do natural hot springs nice restaurants and shopping even the snake zoo was educational.In Returning back to our Hacienda from our daily adventures, we meet the owners of our guest house Marty and Nita they we so friendly ,nice and accommodating and offered to make reservations for any tours we might like to do in which we did two of them that were fantastic.I would recommend any one to stay at the Encantada Guest House .Thank you Marty and Nita for making our trip wonderful and all your assistance.

Don't look any further! This is the place to stay for your Costa Rica getaway. My husband and I stayed here for a few days & honestly wished we stayed longer. Nita helped us book the BEST most PERSONAL tours, provided a clean & beautiful place to stay, and even made us breakfast! We woke up surrounded by the rainforest each morning & went to sleep among the fireflies every night. This place is perfectly tucked away yet nearby THE BEST food options around and an easy drive to any tours, the lake, or La Fortuna. We can't thank you enough for the stay! It was perfect!

 

The hacienda was very cozy and had everything we needed for our stay with our toddler. We enjoyed the area a little removed from La Fortuna, plenty of great restaurants a short drive away! We were nervous about the road after reading other reviews, but it seems they made improvements as there many paved portions and it wasn’t an issue at all.


 

Marty and Nita were the perfect hosts! They greeted us upon our arrival, answered our questions and had great referrals for restaurants & excursions. The guesthouse was clean, welcoming and family friendly. We loved the art, property, pool and the hike on the property to the river. Not to mention the CUTEST pups ever ?? Highly recommend the Encantada Guest house!!    

Date of arrival - July 28, 2022    


 

Perfection for adults looking to escape, relax, and rejuvenate during their trip to CR. Perfect location and ambiance of peace surrounded by the natural hills and jungles of CR. The service and attention to detail Nita provided us with was truly exceptional.

Yenaidy’s private feedback for you:
“The intangible moments you all went above and beyond to create for us were really appreciated. We will defenetly be visiting again when we go back to CR. Thank you for everything.”





















 

Great stay, private pool, comfortable beds, everything you need in the kitchen plus more. Wonderful hosts that go out of their way to make your stay great!!!

Our stay at Encantada Arenal B and B was one of the great vacation experiences of my life! The location is the perfect balance of away-from-it-all rain forest seclusion and easy access to all the La Fortuna area has to offer. Our hosts Nita and Marty were warm and welcoming and treated us like royalty. The accommodations were comfortable, clean, and charming. Views are spectacular! Susan and I will recommend Encantada Arenal to friends and family with confidence.

The adults only BnB is run by an amazing Nita and Marty! The property is expansive with hot tubs/pool, massage studio, and yoga room. The rooms are cozy - all the while being surrounded by amazing views of the volcano and wildlife. We went for a massage with Fabian and it was very relaxing. Marty and Nita's hospitality were undoubtedly our favorite - they helped us coordinate and book tours and accomodated our early morning departures with a delicious breakfast!

We enjoyed a beautiful honeymoon at Encantada! It was a splendid Airbnb with a delicious breakfast! Internet was spotty but that's Costa Rica for you. Go and enjoy the mountain views and adventure activities of Arenal. Book a day at Tabacon Thermal Springs you won't be disappointed!!!

Had an incredible time staying at the guest house. Wonderful location and a beautiful well decorated home. So many activities to do on property with a pool and jacuzzi for some down time. A great trail to walk on and the hosts were extremely hospitable and helpful. They provided us with a huge variety of movies to watch and the beds were so comfy. They helped us find the Toucans in the trees and identified the sounds of the animals we heard. Everything exceeded our expectations including our hosts.

Amazing stay in a remote location! Very helpful host. She was so gracious and helpful to us! Its conveniently located close to the park, sky adventures, and all the hot springs. I recommend a high clearance vehicle though, as the roads are quite steep and pretty bumpy. Worth the drive on the roads though. It's a hidden gem!

After over a year of planning and waiting, our vacation at Encantada Guest House in El Castillo, near La Fortuna was magical! Nita and Marty are wonderful and helped us each step of the way - reserving excursions, answering questions as it was our first time in Costa Rica, emailing us clear maps and directions before arrival, meeting us on arrival and even left a basket of breakfast basics (eggs, bread, juice, etc). The home is remote and in a beautiful area with views of the lake and volcano, yet it is still convenient to all the attractions - Sky Adventures, hiking and less than 30 minutes into La Fortuna. It has its own pool, can use the hot tub, a hike down to the river, gorgeous flower gardens with lots of humming birds. The beds are comfortable and the home has movies and games for families. Definitely recommend!

If it is available, book it!! We left this morning. Nita and Marty are such great hosts. We left wet swim suits and came back to find them dried!! The place is amazing. We stayed three nights. Everyday we saw different animals - A toucan, a howler monkey, a few guans, and several other birds that Nita mentioned the names but I forgot. The pool and spa experience is very memorable. They clearly put their love into the place. We definitely want to comeback again!

Amazing property in the beautiful Arenal area. Marty and Nita are ever so helpful for all your needs.
If you are looking for a secluded Rainforest Casita with full kitchen and all the amenities of home, look no further.

Beautiful views, kind host, couldn't be better.

This is La Fortuna's best kept secret. It was tucked in the country, extremely peaceful. The value of this rental was insane for everything you got! Breakfast was wonderful and included in the price. The scenery was gorgeous even in the wet season. The pools were gorgeous and the hot tub was absolutely incredible. There is a walk to the spring which was beautiful! We also purchased an on site facial and couples massage. We did have excellent house mates (other guests) that became fast friends. We all decided to have a private chef come in, and it was incredible. While there is an outdoor kitchen, it is a $25 fee to use. Nita was already using the kitchen so waived the fee for us to use the grill! The kitchen is not self serve. You will need to ask for plates and utensils before you use them. There is a mini fridge and basket filled with complimentary goodies in our room!!! We also recieved a bottle of wine and chocolates when we arrived! There was also complimentary bug spray and sunscreen. This genuinely was the highlight of our trip, and we are already planning when we can return.

The Encantada Guest House was located on a beautifully curated property with tons of flowers, plants and animals to watch! It was a great location to serve as our "base camp" during our stay in La Fortuna. The access to hikes at Arenal National Park was very convenient. We loved the Arenal 1968 hike and highly recommend! The property is very quiet and private and the hosts are extremely helpful for all your needs. Definitely a highly recommended place to stay for a family vacation in the Arenal area!    




 

Amazing views and amenities! Great location near all the activities in La Fortuna. They really thought of every little detail!
PS...Get the massages! The Banana Cabana Spa is awesome.

Nita and Marty are absolutely wonderful hosts! They have a wonderful breakfast selection and you don’t leave that table hungry. You can see the love they put into their home around every corner of the property. Also, we had to rearrange our plans because of the incoming hurricane and we arrived 2 days earlier so we weren’t traveling on those days. Nita kept us informed about the weather, where to stop for a bite to eat etc. We fell in love with Bo and Angel (their 2 dogs) and their cats. We consider ourselves very grateful to have made new friends. Pura Vida!

Nita was one of the best hosts I’ve ever had. The communication was off the charts as was the view and the area. I cannot recommend this place enough.

Lovely views. Nice owners. Good food.

Great place to stay! Amazing views, super comfortable room with a ton of extra amenities from the hosts. Driving from here to town was about 30 minutes which wasn't too bad. We spent a lot of time at the the Springs resort in town so a lot of driving but worth it!

 

 The most amazing place, extremely beautiful. The best hosts in the world!

Don't book anywhere else, this place is amazing and the host are beyond thoughtful and welcoming.

Everything in this place is well thought and put together. We had an amazing time there, very peaceful and quiet. The hosts are super friendly and we felt very welcomed. We had a lovely breakfast, everything is made with lots of detail and love. We will definitely go back again and stay longer next time. Dani & David

WOW, just WOW! Encantada Arenal is phenomenal and enchanting. The grounds are immaculate. Love the jungle and the walk down to the stream. The “Banana Cabana” massage facility, right there on the grounds, was exceptional. Our room was beautifully decorated and romantic. The owners Nita and Marty were very accommodating in every aspect. They even stocked the refrigerator, and snack tray, with our special needs in mind. (I am diabetic, so they even had sugar free snacks and diet soda in our room. We also do not drink alcohol, so they had a bottle of sparkling cider waiting for us!) They are very familiar with the amenities in the area, and beyond, having been there for 15 years. Our only regret was we could not stay longer! Encantada Arenal is worthy of your bucket list!

If you are looking for a place to stay in El Castillo, look no further. This was the best Airbnb experience EVER! The property is unbelievably beautiful and full of wildlife. We saw lots of beautiful birds and monkeys! Nita and Marty are fabulous hosts and served up delicious breakfast each morning. I’d recommend staying for a week at least to be able to fully appreciate all there is to offer at the Airbnb and in the area. We hope to stay with them again!

Beautiful home with spectacular views. On our first night we saw a whole family of howler monkeys and got to experience fully being emerged in the jungle! The area is beautifully surrounded by lush jungles and plants. During our stay however, there was a lot of rain (which is common) that resulted in a couple power outages throughout the night . The groundskeeper was there and was able to restore the power through the back-up generator. Overall, this is a remote wonderful experience, definitely a jungle!



 

Amazing stay!! Paradise in the jungle. We had a blast from all the excursion, to the lovely in house tropical beauty! Clean, lovely space! They though about everything we could possibly need. Had very personalized lovely touches throughout the room. Not to mention their beautiful pets! Loved them all! Nita and Marty are awesome!!

Encantada Arenal is absolutely wonderful. The views are breathtaking and in the evening you can hear a symphony of nature. We enjoyed a walk down the path into the lush forrest and relaxed in the pool which was the perfect temperature for cooling off. The breakfast was always delicious and was the perfect way to start the day. Nita and Marty are very friendly and we’re great at communicating. Would definitely recommend staying at this beautiful location!

We stayed for a week and after traveling for 7 months, this place felt like home. It is small, but there’s everything you need, even games for everyone. Nature is luxurious all around the house, we saw loads of monkeys, all kinds of birds (even some toucans!!). You do need a car, since just the driveway would be quite a walk, but overall we had a great time. Nita and Marty were more than helpfull and the beds were super comfy. Go there! :)

 

Magnificent exchange at the Encantada GH. The house is very well equipped and the environment is amazing. We saw toucans, hummingbirds and monkeys in the "garden" which is actually a private jungle! Wake up to the sound of birds and monkeys, small pool to relax at the end of the day and flowers everywhere! The communication with Nita was excellent and she gave us very valuable advice about the area and the activities. A great place where we would come back with great pleasure. Thank you!!!

What an amazing Airbnb! Exceeded our expectations. The property itself is stunning, so if you want to take a day to relax on the property- DO IT! Nita & Marty provide all the essentials you need during your stay. The breakfast is delicious ;) The room had snacks and a minibar just in case you came in hungry- very thoughtful of them. It’s about a 20-30 minute drive to town and all the main hikes and activities- every minute of the drive is filled with the stunning Costa Rican views. Would definitely return :)

The guest house was amazing. We loved waking up early to the howler monkeys and walking the trail down in to the jungle. The kids really loved the pool and the “classic” movies from the 90’s. The town is very quiet and you must stop by the bakery when there. We would definitely stay here again.

Nita and Marty’s place is truly special. The price is comparable or beats many of the other stays in La Fortuna, while being much prettier and much more secluded. The property is very relaxing, with a great view of the volcano on a clear day. Amazing breakfast and hospitality. You also get to hang out with their pup Beau!! Pics of their place and horseback riding 5 mins away.

An absolutely special place to stay! I've traveled the world and this is one of my favorite places so far! Absolutely magical.

What a magical place! And what a couple who took great care of us! Nothing is left to chance and everything is done so that everything goes perfectly: from the little candles to the women's kit in the bathroom... a thousand thanks to both of you!

Quel endroit magique ! Et quel couple aux petits soins pour nous ! Rien n’est laissé au hasard et tout est fait pour que tout se déroule à merveille : des petites bougies au kit pour femme dans la salle de bain... mille mercis à tous les deux !

This place exceeded mine and my wife’s expectations. Nita and Marty are so genuinely gracious about their guests. Every detail of the property and experience was executed to perfection. As our first stop in Costa Rica and after a long day of travel, we immediately felt comfortable, relaxed and taken care of. The perfect combination of exoticism and tranquility. Marty cooks a hell of a breakfast. Nita recommended delicious places to eat and great hikes. We stayed two nights and our only regret is not staying longer. We feel we got more than we paid for. Strongly recommend.


 

The most beautiful stay—every detail was considered and the scenery couldn’t have been more perfect.

My wife and I stayed here during our first trip to Costa Rica. And it was fabulous for so many reasons! First let me say that the hosts, Nita and Marty, are absolutely incredible. It’s like having a friend right away in Costa Rica. The fact that Encantada sits high in the jungle itself allows us you to be SO close (and yet secure) to Costa Rica‘s rich natural environment of animals and flora already makes it a winner. We woke up every day to the most vibrant sounds of the jungle. And at night we sipped drinks on the deck while listening to a wonderful Orchestra of animal noises (birds, monkeys, frogs, insects, etc…) again, all under the scenic view of Volcano Arenal. That was the unexpected magic for sure, however it was our host’s kindness and knowledge of the area that really helped make our stay more enjoyable. Nita and Marty gave us excellent information and helpful tips on how to make the most out of our stay in Arenal. The personal touches really capped it all off and truly made our stay so remarkable. The architectural layout, the variety of fresh Breakfast options every day was phenomenal, the quiet solitude, the extras such as guide books, binoculars, the complimentary in-room snacks and drinks, and the decor and color schemes,…it all went above and beyond. Oh yeah…did I mention the hot tub/pool was a fabulous touch after days of travel or hiking? Watching the sunset over the lake while sipping on wine in the hot tub was Pura Vida! The only thing you really need to have is a reliable SUV or car rental. The roads in or around Lake Arenal can sometimes be unpredictable and it’s better to have your own transportation if you want to make the most out of your visit.

Absolutely amazing place! Nita and Marty have thought of every detail to make your stay incredible. Breakfast every morning was delicious, they provide binoculars to watch monkeys, toucans, and many other animals in their yard. Location is perfect…close to Arenal Volcano, ziplining, butterfly conservatory, hot springs, and much more!

This place is idyllic…it has beautiful grounds with views into the forest, to the lake and the volcano. The hosts have thought of every detail you can imagine!!! From rain ponchos to bug dope maps to chocolates…guide books to binoculars. Coffee in the morning sitting on a balcony looking into the forest is magical. The flowers, trees and birds are spectacular. The small at the bottom of the hill is authentic, the people warm and welcoming, the food very local and tasty. You won’t find tv, parties, bars and action but will find yourself going back in time to a real Costa Rica

 

This place was absolutely awesome. Cute, clean, comfortable well stocked with everything you’d need day to day and placed in a breathtaking setting with gorgeous 360 degree views. Everything about it really did exceed my expectations. On top of that, great communication with the host who was extremely accommodating. Know that the drive to town is roughly 20-30 mins. I would absolutely stay here again!

 

We had a perfect stay! Marty and Nita were exceptional hosts all-around and went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable. Their home is truly a work of art! The gardens, the wildlife, the delicious breakfast… delightful! We were sad to leave.

10/10…stay here! Nita & Marty’s place is truly amazing. Location is perfect…close to Arenal Lake & Volcano, Butterfly Sanctuary, La Fortuna and more! Absolutely unforgettable experience!

 

We loved our stay here!! Nita and Marty are so nice and accommodating! We had no problem checking in or out and they were there to help with anything! We were welcomed with a nice little welcome basket which was plenty to get us through 4 days of breakfast! The house is super cute and has everything you need! We saw lots of birds and even some monkeys! We heard the howler monkeys throughout the days which was cool! The views are incredible and the location is perfect if you’re not looking to be directly in La Fortuna! It was very close to the Sky Adventure park, the Volcano Arenal, and about a 20-30 min drive to La Fortuna. There are plenty little restaurants in El Castillo. Our favorite was Fusion Arenal! We had the best time and would definitely stay again!


 

What an absolute delight it was to stay at Nita and Martys place. Highly recommend if you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The house was meticulously clean and the breakfast every morning was nothing shy of 5 stars! And the bed was among the most comfortable we have had.

We had a peaceful 2 days stay surrounded by lush jungle, hot tub, pools and delightful breezes. Lake Arenal can be seen from the hot tub! Nita and Marty were gracious hosts and made us feel well taken care of. There are only 2 rooms for rent so you have all the peace and quiet you desire.

 I cannot recommend Encantada Arenal enough. The room was absolutely gorgeous, very clean and with a very well stocked mini fridge. Each room comes with a coffee press which we loved. My favorite part of the stay was sitting on the veranda enjoying my morning coffee or my evening wine. Nita and her husband were so very gracious and accommodating. Beau their cute dog was very sweet and loved his pets. The grounds were stunning and very well kept. This place is an absolute gem.

This place is magical! Super comfy and clean. Close to all volcano activities, but without the traffic. Great hosts as well. I absolutely recommend!

This is an extremely beautiful place. Nice rugged drive up to the most gorgeous place you will ever stay. When the clouds open you can see Arenal volcano. Lots of wildlife to view from the outside dining area. Marty & Nita are exceptional hosts. Thank You for everything. The cooking class was very nice too. The ladies were excellent. You must stay here at least once in your life. It truly is amazing.

 
This place is wonderful!! The hosts are great and soo kind. They are thorough in preparations and communication but leave you to yourself if you want to be left alone. The property is beautiful and you really do feel as if you are a family friend visiting! The location is great! La fortuna is the nearest big town and it is lovely. The guide sheet in the room (the host was very helpful in sending along a pdf copy) is a great place to start looking for things to do! We did cataracta del toro, sky tours zip lining, the butterfly place and a coffee tour in la fortuna!! We will definitely come back for a longer stay in this area next time!


 

We had an awesome stay. Nita and Marty were very responsive to all questions before and during our stay. They were so welcoming when we arrived and made us feel at home. The breakfast basket was a total life saver!! We got in late and we’re traveling with 3 kids- it was so nice to wake up the next morning and have groceries ready to cook! Hosts also provide concierge service and helped us book a horseback ride to a waterfall that was so much fun and worth every penny. They are happy to share recommendations for food and activities in the area. The house and property were just as described and pictured on the listing. We loved all the decoration and details in the home that gave it a Pura Vida vibe!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at your villa (Guest House). Glad to give a 5 star rating. It was the best place we stayed at. Even the cow path was fun each day we headed out. Buck (Jeff) and I both got use to driving in CR. Got use to the slow speeds real quick. Thanks for helping us with everything, the recommendations for Sky, cooking class, etc.. Spa was great and massages too. We will always recommend to friends and family, your place is the place to go. I got my covid test at the airport, was a very good experience, they have a great process. Had my results in less than 45 mins, and was only 65.00 USD.

Thank you so much Nita and Marty for such a warm welcome! This amazing place includes a pool and hot tub with a wonderful view of the Arenal Volcano. There were so many healthy breakfast options, everything was delicious and prepared with love! We also enjoyed the spa and a cooking class, thank you Nita and Marty for reserving this for us! We definitely recommend this place. Merci encore Nita et Marty!

 

 
End to end a lovely stop on our tour of Costa Rica. Nita and Marty were fabulous hosts, always ready to offer tips and tricks to help us enjoy all the area has to offer. Lovely room, breakfasts, and the grounds are great. There are only two AirBnB units so it's quiet. If you're looking for a great spot, in a lovely area, look no further.


 

Loved our stay at Encantada! Great to be out of the hustle and bustle of In town la fortuna. Perfect for a couple or small family. Stunning scenery, very comfortable, a gem in the jungle. Nita and Marty were fantastic hosts that went out of their way to make our stay wonderful and help book memorable experiences. Sweet doggo and kitties were a plus. Stop reading and book now. you found where you wanna be around arenal...

Where do I start. This trip to Costa Rica was made even better due to Nita and Marty’s hospitality. The drive to the property was not that difficult at all. I expected a major challenge but our vehicle made it up the trail with relative ease. No 4x4 needed. Once we entered the property, we knew that we were about to have the time of our lives. The views were spectacular, exactly like the photos and Nita and Marty greeted us like if we’ve known each other for years. The room was really beautiful and my wife and I were really impressed with the attention to detail. The breakfast was top notch as well, and appreciated. Overall, we highly recommend staying here, 10/10 for us.

Close to Arenal but a world away in the mountains, away from the crowds. No need to go to La Fortuna unless you need to, with great little local eateries less than a mile or two from the property. The property and amenities like pool and hot tub were spotless snd luxurious in the tropical garden setting. Delicious breakfasts and nice treats as a gift to start you off. Friendly and engaging host and hostess. We really enjoyed every part of our three days in the area before we headed for the beach! Highly recommend this place!

Breakfast every morning was delicious! So many thoughtful touches and an absolutely breathtaking view! Nita and Marty were both very kind and helpful. Would recommend staying here to everyone!

Gorgeous property! So many flowers and birds everywhere. Lots of places to explore at the property and very colorful. Loved staying here.

Marty and Nita are fantastic hosts. Super friendly and communicative and have thought of everything. They’re welcoming you into their home!
The grounds are stunning and large. We took advantage of the indoor/outdoor yoga room and spa with massages and facials. We used the hot tub, the pool, and the warmed pool. We walked down the private trail to the forest floor. The outdoor eating area and walkways are like paradise.
The breakfast was made to order and GREAT we ordered something new each morning and all of it was fantastic. We had a private chef come one evening and prepared a meal with her.
This was our first stop on our honeymoon and we were so sad to leave. It was absolutely perfect.

Toucan Suite, Encantada Arenal Adults Only B&B. Experience More!    
 
 
I would give 10 stars if I could. Nita and Marty were very attentive hosts. Breakfast is made to order and was perfect each day. The Property was beautiful and well situated. The Toucan room was impeccable. We enjoyed the pool and the jacuzzi. They have put a lot of attention to the details and we felt it. We would definitely stay here when we come back. Thank you so much for our time there.    

Date of arrival - February 26, 2022    


 

Amazing place to stay, very clean we love the privacy and the perfect view, we had from every single window from this cabin. Nita and Marty are very fast to respond for everything. This is much better than staying at one of the resorts you will see in the downtown Fortuna. You will find everything in the kitchen to prepare your breakfast, we did it before leaving, and it saved us time and gave us extra energy to continue our trip. I highly recommend.

 

Nita and Marty are excellent hosts and their place is simply amazing. The atmosphere and the hosts make you feel so comfortable it was more like staying with friends then staying in a hotel. The gardens are so lush and beautiful it is easy to see this is much more than just a business to them. Great rooms, beautiful grounds, excellent hosts, and delicious breakfastses. I would highly recommend the Encantada Arenal B&B and I can say without a doubt we will be visiting again.

The room was very well appointed, clean with a free mini bar. Also a basket of items you may need(rain parka, bug spray, umbrellas…) that you may not have. Breakfast was great every morning with you being able to chose from a menu your the night before. The grounds are lovely and there is a hot tub with lake views and also two other small pools with different temps. The road up to their home is a bit rough but not enough to detract from the stay. Nita and Marty were so helpful booking zip line and massages, it was like having your own concierge. If we ever get back to the Arenal area we will definitely stay with them again.

Nita and Marty’s place was fantastic. It was definitely a personal bed and breakfast experience and they were always attentive and available to anything we needed. The breakfasts, views, hospitality, and waking up to the jungle are unbeatable! Would highly recommend and happily stay again.

I can’t recommend this place enough! The pictures are great, but don’t even come close to doing it justice. It’s truly a paradise. From the pool and hot tub, to the views and flowers, to the minute details. I mean, everything was magical. I even got a massage on the property! Also, Nita is extremely organized and even gave us fresh things for breakfast! stay here, you won’t regret it!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay with Nita. From the refreshing pool to the rejuvenating hot tub, they have certainly created a private haven for relaxation. The property is beautifully kept with luscious gardens and a short hike into the rainforest. Nita even left us ingredients for coffee, eggs, and pancakes. Delicious! She was quick with communication and helped make local reservations for us. We can't wait to come back to Encantada.

WOW! No words for how AMAZING our stay was. Nita and Marty made us feel truly special. Not one small detail was overlooked. The home is a literal jungle paradise. The grounds were pristine. It felt amazing to be nestled inside nature! The room was immaculate and had everything (lots of towels, extra pillows and blankets, coffee, lots of water, drinks and snacks, robes, slippers, and MORE). Nita and Marty were very accommodating and helpful. My bf and I are vegan so they created a vegan breakfast menu for us which was so thoughtful and DELICIOUS! We also got stuck in the mud down the road and Marty helped push us out which we so appreciated. If you are visiting Arenal/ La Fortuna area this is a must. You wont regret it! Thanks again xoxo

 

From the moment we arrived we were treated like royalty. The attention to the smallest detail and care for our comfort ranks with some of the best treatment We have ever received. I have traveled the world and can whole heartedly say that the service was memorable and unique. The labor of love is noticed in every detail. From the delicious breakfast selection, to the seamless integration into the rainforest. The wildlife was mesmerizing and made it feel like we were a part of the rainforest. To say we recommend it is an understatement. If you want to escape your modern stressful life. There is no better place to run to then here.



 

Wonderful place to stay!! The view from the pool to the vulcano is amazing. The hosts have been wonderful, very nice, they even offered us a bottle of vine for welcome, the breakfast in the morning was sooo nice like in a restaurabt they really think about every little detail. Would reccomend everybody to go there!!!

Encantada is INCREDIBLE. Nita and Marty think about everything and go above and beyond for guests. The breakfast was amazing every morning, and we loved the romantic setting during our honeymoon. Also the grounds are beautifully done with wonderful gardens to walk in. Next time we stay we definitely want to try the their spa, it looked beautiful!! If you are debating booking a stay at Encantada, just do it!! You will love your time there

Unique Jungle Villa for 5, Welcome Breakfast Basket, Fantastic Views, Pool!    
 
From start to finish everything was beyond expectations. Communication with the owners was great and the home was perfect. The home has everything you will need or could want, very clean and inviting. The grounds are kept to a park setting. Howler monkeys in the distance, hummingbirds and geckos made this experience magical. This is a perfect place to spoil yourself, my only regret is we had to leave. Thank you so very much for sharing this piece of paradise with us, we will never forget the time we had here.    

Date of arrival - January 7, 2022    

I recently spent the weekend in the newly opened Parrot Suite, and what an amazing experience it was! This is five-star pampering at its best. The suite was warm and welcoming, with every imaginable detail attended to and peace, quite and unparalleled tranquility. This incredible property has it all: outstanding lake and volcano views, lush walking trails, multiple swimming pools, jacuzzi, an onsite masseuse in the garden spa as well as a beautiful outdoor dining kitchen/patio. There is even a movie theatre where I was delighted to watch a live -streamed concert of Andrea Bocelli! After an incredibly comfortable sleep, I was lucky enough to be served one of Marty's outstanding breakfasts, which constituted a meal for nearly the entire day. Besides the striking color combinations, Nita has outdone herself with such lovely touches as plentiful books, personal necessities, fresh carafed water, coffee, tea and even a miniature zen garden for that added measure of peace. From the moment I arrived until my (very regretful) departure, all I felt at the Encantada Guest House was unparalleled peace which gave rise to an unmistakable sense of calm and well-being. If you want to experience luxury pampering around the Arenal area, this is the place for you. Pura Vida!

Perfect place to unwind in complete peace! Such friendly hosts and super helpful! Epic views, totally breathtaking! Comfy beds and linens, stocked kitchen, was perfect! They were considerate enough to even bring a high chair and crib for us. The kids loved the toys and their doggies. Was a perfect stay!

Great private space with 30 minutes or less to activities such as ATV, Horse back riding , hot springs and etc. host left clear instructions of the house and recommendations of what to do and eat in the area. Enjoyed our stay :) Thank you !

Nita And Marty were AMAZING and made us feel like long lost friends not strangers. Both are very knowledgeable about the area and went above and beyond with helpful tips! We can’t wait to come back and stay in March - Shari Evans

In my opinion this was the perfect place to truly experience the beauty of Costa Rica . The guest house is surrounded by nature and the lovely sounds of the jungle . Truly an experience we will treasure forever .

You get everything your looking for with Nita’s place. I have zero complaints. They go above and beyond to make sure that all of your needs are taken care of. If I could put more stars I would.

Better than la Fortuna, enjoy this quiet and cosy place in El Castillo, with good views over the lake and the volcano, nice hikes to walk around, games for children to play with in case of rain. Close to the entrance of the Parque Nacional del Arenal and to many other attractions. Very good communication with the landlords. Eveything was pefect for our family!

Beautiful views, clean, and spacious. We absolutely loved our time here! The bed was super comfortable and the house had everything one could need. It was a little bit of a challenge to find the house at night time in the pouring rain but once we arrived we were blown away with the property and the space! Nita and Marty greeted us when we arrived and help us book a few activities. We loved Sky Adventures hike / zipline as well as Los Lagos hot springs. We would love to go back here someday!

We throughly enjoyed our stay at the Encantada guesthouse! It is very close to the areas attractions and located in a peaceful and relaxing environment with an excellent view on Arenal volcano and lake. Marty and Nita are very warm and welcoming while respecting your privacy and are available to assist with any questions you might have. We highly recommend this place when visiting the Arenal area!!!

Wonderful and secluded but very close to many sites and activities and El Castillo village.

We absolutely loved our stay here. From the moment you book, Nita and Marty are your personal concierge service. When we had questions, they were incredibly responsive and helpful, even booking our excursions for us! The guest house was romantic, beautiful, and secluded. It's far enough away from the main house that you feel like you've got the whole place to yourself, but close enough that you can get anything you need from them in a matter of minutes. They thought of all the amenities too: a fully stocked kitchen, bathroom, and living room with games/books/movies. They even provide a booklet of restaurant, excursion and other suggestions. On top of that, they offer the COOLEST spa experience in their screened in spa overlooking the jungle. The massages we had were the best of my life. And don't forget the views! You can see the lake, volcano, and even walk their private stream all from the property. This place is magical and Marty and Nita are top tier hosts. Truly incredible.

The place was tucked away in the jungle with beautiful patios and sitting areas. It was a bed and breakfast, so we had made to order breakfast each morning. It felt very peaceful, and a place where my husband and I could just check out. We spent time enjoying their pool, hot tub, and a cute little walking path down to the river. If you get a chance to stay here I would highly recommend it.

Absolutely amazing down to every last detail! Before ever even traveling, I was already impressed with the correspondence from Nita and Marty which included detailed lists of recommended food stops when traveling to the Encantada, organized by which direction we might be coming from, recommended rental car details with contacts, recommended activities and excursions which they offer to facilitate, ect and much more. They helped us with our travel requirements and covid guidelines between our two counties. They also helped us route or driving directions from our first AirBnB stay in Costa Rica to them. Just before arriving to the guest house, we circled Lake Arenal with breathtaking views of the lake and the volcano as we ventured up the hill. We turned onto their road and immediately heard the sounds of a running stream or river that paralleled the road. On that note, don’t be intimidated by the road, just take it slow and enjoy the sounds and views, it’s all so worth it. Upon our arrival to the guest house, we were taken away by the grounds gardens and well manicured lush landscapes. A beautiful queens trumpet tree overhangs a welcoming hammock just outside the door, facing you’re own private pool. The guest house is located downhill of the main house making it excluded and private while having all the advantages of the main grounds. Access included the main grounds hot tub, warm tub, fire pit, namastay room, spa services, and more. When entering the house, every need has been thoroughly anticipated and we wanted for nothing. A beautiful welcome basket awaited us with everything we needed to make a big breakfast. Spices, seasoning, condiments, coffee, sugar, coffee maker, tea kettle, french presses, are just some of the noteworthy items found in the very well stocked kitchen. The linens, bedding, and towels were all high quality and they even supplied us with 2 high quality robes. Needless to say, we slept very well. The bathroom was well stocked and any items you may have forgotten to pack has been well taken into account, even first aid! The water pressure and temperature was perfect. Our last night we moved up to the main house and stayed in their toucan room. We didn’t think things could have been better, but just like everything else at the Encantada, around every corner is an even more amazing surprise. An even more lavish welcoming gift awaited us. A more spa like shower with complimentary spa quality soaps, lotions, and hair products were beautifully presented on display with a cascading backdrop of indoor plants and greenery. I don’t know if we were just worn out from an all day white water rafting adventure but that night, the mattress and linens felt like we were sleeping on kittens. The next morning they prepared a beautiful table for breakfast on the patio. I had the best Belgium waffles in my life paired with French press coffee, fresh fruit, eggs Benedict, fresh juice and sweet bread. We couldn’t have been more pleased with our stay and can’t wait to return!

The property was very beautiful and the location was very close to some major attractions.

Nita and Marty have an amazing property. From the well appointed room to the pristine pool and grounds, their attention to detail is unparalleled. Close to El Castillo attractions and a short drive to La Fortuna it's a perfect romantic location to enjoy the Pura Vida spirit of Costa Rica. We would love to come back.    

Date of arrival - April 18, 2023