Hotel La Rana

This hotel had by far the best views from all of the hotels we stayed at in Costa Rica. Whether in your room or at the restaurant the view is stunning. The owners were very nice. If you enjoy bird watching, this is the place to go! The traditional Costa Rican breakfast was accompanied by the freshest fruit and good strong coffee. While you eat you can watch several species of birds in the trees and on the patio ledge. It is such a peaceful property surrounded by nature. We did have a few ants in our room due to the gap under the front door but that was a minor issue. Visitors take note - the drive in and out of the property from the main road is very steep.

We were traveling from Playa Hermosa to La Fortuna and someone recommended La Rana for lunch. WOW! So glad we stopped in. What an experience. Food is great, the atmosphere and view is even better. SIT OUTSIDE! It’s so neat watching all of the birds fly up to eat. We enjoyed this so much.

Lovely place to stay with wonderful sights and delicious German food when you want to change the menu. I had the curry wurst which was really good. Otherwise there is a path to go in the tropical jungle.. and the waterfall he made in the time. I would suggest not to go to far to the left but walk the path down the river. Why: The howler monkeys have their territory over there, don’t mess with them. The path down the river is really nice and gives you really deep tropical forest feelings! Rooms are good and for this price in Costa Rica a bargain. I just stayed 1 night but was really thinking to stay another night but my cycle legs wanted to continue the trip… but surely not my mind … enjoy the views it’s just amazing.

Clean rooms, amazing service & food & the most beautiful location. Truly a gem of a place.

Wonderful place to stay. Super clean, great views of the lake and the gardens. Lots of birds, beautiful setting. Room was very comfortable. Shower had hot water. Good value for money. Highly recommended.

Stopped by for a snack on our way from Liberia to La Fortuna. Very tasty food (pretzel and sausages and perfectly cooked fries!) and awesome birdwatching! Beautiful view over the lake.

Stopped by on our way to La Fortuna, and what a beautiful gem! The sweet German man that owns this place serves up authentic German food with serenity, and an amazing view of Lake Arenal. My girlfriend and I had a quick bite to eat and took in the views from his beautiful property (birds galore, even saw a couple Toucans!!)
Next time, we're going to take a day or two to stay at the hotel; absolutely gorgeous property, run by a lovely human☺

Extremely beautiful location that feels like waking up in paradise. Lots of birds come to eat fruit off the second floor balcony. You can also see the birds in the nearby trees. Fun doggos.

Wouldn't recommend if you need access to good Wi-Fi as the signal is very weak and during rain almost non-existent. Can be a little noisy from the upstairs restaurant.

We had a great stay. The grounds were beautiful. There is a small waterfall on the property and nice 20 minutes hike along the river. Hundreds of exotic birds in the gardens. Food was excellent. A yummy breakfast was included in the price of the room. The owner was exceptionaly friendly. The rooms are rustic but super clean. At night A great place to visit even just for a meal. At night fire flies covered the garden. It was magical!

Beautiful view, good breakfast, cozy and clean rooms.

Great 1-night stay. Quiet location. Beautiful view.

We enjoyed our stay at this hotel. The room was a bit small and basic but it was very clean. We loved the view - our room was in the main building facing the garden and the lake. Quiet place where we had a good sleep. Friendly owners. If you are exploring the area and want to stay far from the busy La Fortuna, this is your place.

Stopped here for lunch on our way around the lake. Lovely German-style building set in beautiful grounds. The view from the veranda was fantastic. The food was delicious and the staff very polite and helpful. Would love to call in here again.

Very good food home made traditional and german. The prices are very affordable and unbetable .The German owner has been here for 27 years and he is friendly and helpfull.We been at La Rana for the second time this year and we love it.
The rooms are basic and very clean.
Beautiful Lake Arenal view, monkeys, birds, a tennis court and a small water fall in the property.
The gardens and grounds are very well maintained.
It is a privite place and it is been a pleasure to test the Pura Vida from LA RANA.

Highly recommended

Great time. We stop to eat. There is a gift shop and they feed the birds (which is why we stopped), with a great view. Great, simple food. Very friendly people at this restaurant.

A beautiful location with views of the Arenal Lake, fantastic food prepared fresh, a friendly service and access to the Nuevo Arenal and La Fortuna areas.

Delicious German dishes. Nice beer, saw toucans and some smaller bright colored birds. Very "tranquilo" vibe.

Awesome service, awesome food..
We found this place, driving to Arenal. It's a beautiful setting. We've met friendly people and the food was delicious. All german menu and sooooo tasty.

Terrace with great view and all kinds of birds, including Tucans!
The german Currywurst is delicious.

Best hostel experience. Very good price with own bathroom!
Breakfast is so-so

Delicious German food. Friendly owners and staff. Amazing lake view.