Lake Arenal Hotel & Brewery

this place is an oasis, located at the less populated end of lake arenal opposite the volcano, these guys are perched up in the hills as part of a really neat little hotel with what i have to imagine to be the best view around. the place is buzzing with birds and wildlife as we walk in, feels out in the jungle and our little rental car barely made it up the hill. cool almost aztec vibe inside, with colorful columns and an amazing view from the bar out over the lake. the brewery is downstairs and in the process of expansion, owner JP was kind enough to show us around and chat about his growing business, all very sustainable and low impact, which i think is so cool. solar hot water and such, more sustainability in progress as well. the bar was so mellow, almost nobody around and a nice breeze blowing through, could have sat here forever. for the most part, the beer was just okay, we enjoyed he pineapple blonde and the nitro stout quite a lot, even the chili beer was good, but the pale and ipa were just okay, and there didnt seem to be a whole lot of innovation in the brew house. that said, all the beers were very drinkable, affordable, and more than good enough for a couple of weary travelers! i wish we had stayed here to spend more time on this mellow property that also includes a garden, a pool, and a skate park believe it or not! even if the beer is sort of middle of the road, its a must stop if you are anywhere even nearby here, the vibe and the view are epic, the folks working here were super kind and helpful, and i just cant imagine a more relaxing place to drink a craft beer. wonderful stop, a highlight of our trip to costa rica for sure!