We visited this place back in summer of 2008 and it was a spectacular experience. The moment we went down the trail into the forest leading to the hot springs, a chorus of seemingly hundreds of birds overwhelmed the air. What a tropical welcome! Then the trail winds through and along a beautiful stream at the same time descending lower and deeper into the forest. Soon the tropical canopy is way above you and at times you cannot see the sky anymore. At the end, you have this series of some 6-7 hot springs with varying tempatures all built along that stream. There are natural sitting areas in these pools and we got mesmerized by the frolicking stream and sound of water all around us. The clouds that gathered above but now have come down into the trees like a cloud forest.

It was rainy season and soon drops of rain the size of quail eggs started hitting the surface of the pools but everything was still warm. The rain came and went but continued for the 3 days we were there. That was the best memory we have of Termales del Bosque. That was the most natural and beautiful hot springs we have seen anywhere.

You should also check out the horse rides offered there. Our daughters had a wonderful time learning horse riding in Spanish and by example. We trotted and galloped on these rolling hills, down the creek, under the trees. ... We even scared off (unintentionally) a big tropical bird incubating her eggs in the grass when we rode by her nest. She was in midst of the tall grass and we did not see her. Then we got to see the eggs in that nest. It was so fun riding horses in this natural environment that we signed up again the next day. There is no way we could have done that in the States. For some $10 per person, it was a wonderful bargain.

The room itself is simple but authentic and we appreciate the cultural aspect of it. The hotel ground is very scenic with tropical plants, birds, ... The meals were good. We especially found the ceviche there to be the best and nothing since then have come close even at other Costa Rican resorts later on the trip.

The only thing that went wrong was the road back to the main highway after our stay. It was closed for construction so we had to join this caravan of other vehicles on this long, winding detour that went into people's backyard, narrow alleys, huge pot holes and hours of delay on our way to Arenal.

The thermal springs are very nice: Quiet area, nice surroundings, changing area, towels. The room itself was mediocre -- mattresses were hard and not mattress cover; pillows were lumpy, only an overhead lamp (one wall lamp was in the room but there wasn't a bulb). The shower did not have hot water except for the first 2 seconds.

There was also a problem with the reservation, but we made do. Food was very good and the staff were all very friendly. Good value for the money.

We visited Termales del Bosque twice during our stay in Costa Rica. It is great value for money.
The staff are friendly and helpful, the food was delicious (particularly the mixed meat platter), there is wireless internet and although simple the rooms are clean and well kept.

The thermal baths are fantastic. They are in a natural forest setting that is particularly special at night. (Sorry no description or photo can describe the experience). The walk to the thermal springs itself is nice, and although there is a shuttle, the walk is only a 5-10 minute easy stroll.

What I like most, is that this place is honest, good value. For under $100 for a couple, you have entry to the baths, dinner and breakfast included for both of you.

Unlike so many other places in this country they don't try to sell you anything. If you expect 5 star luxuries then this may not be for you but if you want a good quality, relaxing, value for money experience, then I would recommend this place. I hope it stays this way!

PS The pina coladas at the thermal springs are very good.

My only criticism of the hotel is that the gym could do with a bit of an upgrade.

Oh,this place is just past ciudad quesada, an hour before arenal. Interbus have shuttles between here and numerous places in Costa Rica..when you book with interbus it is actually in the area called "aguas zarcas". Approx $45 to san jose. For those that criticise its location..check your google maps before you book:)! Its a great stop to / from a visit to arenal.

Located 7 km from Ciudad Quesada. In general well maintained site, the rooms require a bit of maintenance but generally OK. Meals are very good, Service is very good. In general I'd recommend it. Two things I would strongly suggest: Horses require attention. Room 24 had no cold water and hot water was hotter than the hotsprings!! Mattresses!!! a bit on the soft side for my taste!