Barbara Greenfield Discovers Where Luxury Meets the Wild in Costa Rica

I've always believed that recommending a property without experiencing it firsthand is like describing a painting you've only seen in photographs. So when the opportunity arose to visit The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal in Costa Rica, I knew I had to go. I wanted to understand what makes this place special, to feel it for myself so I could share that feeling with my clients. What I didn't expect was just how profoundly it would stay with me.

From the moment I arrived, something shifted. The resort sits overlooking Arenal Volcano, and the setting is unlike anything I've encountered. Each morning, I would wake surrounded by mist rolling through the clouds, the air filled with the unmistakable calls of howler monkeys echoing both near and far. Sitting outside for breakfast, I watched the scene unfold before me: the tiered hot springs, the volcano rising in the distance, toucans hopping through the trees, birds calling to one another. Everything felt so alive. I kept telling myself it was like stepping into Jurassic Park or Avatar, and honestly, that comparison doesn't feel like an exaggeration.

What truly surprised me was the seamless marriage of luxury and nature. You expect Costa Rica to deliver incredible scenery, but I wasn't prepared for the level of craftsmanship at this resort. The rooms and villas are designed with such thoughtful attention to detail, and every element feels intentionally connected to the surrounding environment rather than imposed upon it. The service matched the setting, attentive and warm without ever feeling intrusive. This isn't a place where luxury comes at the expense of authenticity. Instead, the two enhance each other.

I also discovered that you could spend an entire week at this property and never run out of things to do. The various hot springs scattered across the grounds became my daily treasure hunt. Some are tucked away in quieter corners, more private and peaceful, and those quickly became my favorites. Then there's Club Rio, which I almost overlooked in my planning. It sits along the river and offers activities, a wildlife sanctuary, and this wonderful sense of adventure that adds another dimension to your stay. I spent hours there and found myself wishing I had more time.

One practical note I'll always share with clients now: the property is large and hilly. Shuttles and golf carts are part of the experience, and that's something to embrace rather than resist. If you're looking for a completely flat, walk-everywhere resort, this isn't it. But if you're open to a bit of movement and exploration, the layout becomes part of the magic. You feel like you're discovering something new around every turn.

Who Should Experience This

This resort is perfect for couples seeking romance wrapped in adventure, and for families who want their children to experience wildlife and wonder alongside genuine comfort. It's ideal for travelers who crave activity (zip lines, hot springs, river adventures) but still want to return to a beautifully appointed room at the end of the day. Nature lovers, explorers, and anyone who wants to feel genuinely immersed in their surroundings will find something extraordinary here.

However, if you prefer a compact, easy-to-navigate property where everything is steps away, or if mobility is a significant concern, I'd suggest we explore other options together.

What I Bring to Your Trip Now

Having walked these paths myself, I can guide my clients beyond simply booking a stay. I know which hot springs offer the most privacy. I know why Club Rio deserves a full afternoon. I understand the rhythm of the property and how to prepare travelers for its scale so they can embrace it fully. This experience reminded me why I do what I do: when a destination becomes part of you, you can share it with so much more conviction and care. I cannot wait to send my clients to Arenal and watch them fall in love the way I did.