I've stayed at the Hotel San Martin several times when visiting Foz do Iguaçu. I love this place, and that's what keeps me coming back.
The hotel is located only about 200-300 meters from the entrance to the Brazilian park. It's right next to the Bird Park. It's only about 4 kilometers from the airport--very convenient all around.
The hotel itself is situated on a spacious property. The front of the property is very nicely appointed as a welcome area, reception, and the hotel rooms themselves. The whole back end of the property includes a soccer field and nature trails that go back into the jungle. The property actually goes all the way back to the Iguaçu River (considerably downstream from the falls), but while I've strolled the trails back there, I've never gone all the way to the river.
The rooms are very basic--almost rustic in some respects. (They have some newer rooms that have been remodeled more to contemporary standards.) The rooms aren't large at all, but they're kept very clean, and they're very comfortable. The bathroom includes a tub-shower and, in some cases at least, a bidet.
You're not in Foz to stay in your hotel room, though! The hotel is so conveniently situated, you can walk to the Cataratas do Iguaçu national park. A bus stop right across the highway from the hotel entrance is convenient for public transportation to downtown Foz, to Argentina or to Paraguay.
In the hotel lobby you can schedule tours to Itaipú Dam, the Argentine national park, or other sights. Tours offered at the hotel are convenient and are fairly priced for the tourist market, but they are not inexpensive; you may be able to find other more economical alternatives if you're a savvy traveler.
The hotel property itself is fun to roam. Walk the nature trails and enjoy the jungle. The swimming pool is beautiful, clean, and a great way to cool off on a warm Brazilian summer day. The poolside bar and grill will make sure your food and beverage needs are met.
Speaking of food and beverage, the hotel offers complimentary breakfast to all guests. Lunch and supper are available in the restaurant for an additional charge. The food in the hotel restaurant is very good. Evening meals usually include a very well-spread buffet, with a main meal theme (churrasco, etc.). The prices are very reasonable, and the quality of food is excellent. Inquire at the desk, because on some evenings the supper meal affords the option of dining outside on the grassy patio--a delightful experience. Live music is often part of the evening ambience.
In the evenings the lobby often becomes a gathering place for hotel guests, many of them from Argentina. It's a fun way to get to know people and share experiences. There is a game room with a pool table and a ping-pong table. The bar is conveniently located right off the lobby.
I myself have not visited the Hotel San Martin with my family, but I believe the hotel makes an effort to be family-friendly. I've seen a number of families enjoying the place, and the hotel seems to be very accommodating for children.
Enjoy your stay!
