Blue River Resort & Spa

Blue River Resort & Spa, on the slopes of Rincón de la Vieja

Blue River sits in the rainforest on the side of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, near the bridge over the Río Azul, about an hour from the Liberia airport. It is a hot springs resort with big gardens, a short drive from both the Rincón de la Vieja National Park and the blue waters of Río Celeste. It suits families and couples who want a relaxed mountain stop at the start or end of a Guanacaste beach trip.

Why we choose it

• Hot springs on the property. Three natural mineral hot spring pools sit in the forest, so the evening soak is a walk from your room.
• Fun for the kids. Two freshwater pools come with a waterslide, which keeps children busy while the adults try the mud bath.
• Between two parks. Rincón de la Vieja and Río Celeste are both within reach, so one base covers two of the great days out in the north.

Check availability

Rooms and views

The rooms are Superior rooms, with a king bed or two queen beds. The Two Queen rooms are spacious, at 720 sq ft, and look onto the garden. Some of the rooms in both types have a view toward the crater of Rincón de la Vieja, worth asking for when we book. There is also a honeymoon option for couples.

Rooms have A/C, a private balcony or terrace, a mini fridge and a safe, so they are comfortable after a hot day on the trails.

On the property

The hot springs are the center of the resort: three natural mineral pools warmed by the volcano, set among the trees. The spa adds a mud bath and a sauna, and treatments for tired legs. For a swim there are two freshwater pools, one with a waterslide.

The gardens are part of the pleasure here, with butterfly gardens and orchids among the plants. Meals and drinks are at the Tiki Bar and Restaurant. The resort also runs yoga and day tours, and it is pet friendly.

From here we can arrange hiking or horseback riding in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, a walk to the blue waterfall at Río Celeste, or tubing on the rivers nearby.

Location and getting there

Blue River is at El Gavilán, on the volcano's side near the Río Azul bridge, about an hour from Liberia. That makes it an easy first or last night for clients flying in or out of Liberia. See more about Rincón de la Vieja Volcano.

Check availability