My husband and I stayed here because this hotel was the Lonely Planet Costa Rica editor's pick for mid-range hotels. What a huge mistake! The bed coverings were digusting and looked like they hadn't been washed for years. We *hoped* at least the sheets were clean. Our room was poorly lit with one tiny overhead light and a tiny bedside lamp, so we always came home to a dark and dank room. The worst part was the inconsistent water temperature. Lonely Planet made much of the hot showers, which are important in Costa Rica after a long day of rafting or hiking. During our first few showers, the hot water would come and go, forcing us to wait about 5 minutes between each temporary spurt of hot water. By the time we left, the shower water only ran cold. We paid $60/night in the low season, and after comparing notes with other travelers who went to La Fortuna at the same time, seems like you can get a much better hotel for about $35-$40/night.

I stayed with my girlfriend at Hotel Pura Vida while we were in La Fortuna, and it deserves a good recommendation. It is a great, centrally located place that is perfect for a base to explore all the area has to offer. It is three blocks from the center of town, where there are plenty of restuarants, bars, etc, but that puts the hotel away from the bustle of the main drag. The rooms are inexpensive, but very clean and have air condition, TV and hot showers. The beds are great, which cannot be emphasized enough if you are planning to do some of the multitude of tours available. You can book tours right downstairs that will pick you up at the hotel. The owner was very helpful in booking tours and even helped us book a hotel in Liberia the night before we flew out. Highly recommended if you're in La Fortuna for the excitement and not the resorts.