La Fortuna

La Fortuna is about 75 miles northwest of San Jose. It is in the shadow of Arenal, the most active volcano in Costa Rica.

Seventy-five miles is an easy 60-90 minute drive.

But wait, we are not in the US now. The roads in Costa Rica are, quite frankly, horrible. The drive took us nearly four hours. The maximum speed limit in the country is 80 kph, or about 50 mph. You soon understand why. But, the countryside is beautiful, full of blooming tropical plants and brightly painted houses.

Our hotel was a short distance outside of the the town of La Fortuna. It has beautiful grounds and each room is a small cabana. I wish I could say they were wonderful, but I can't. Here are a variety of the plants that surrounded us. I recognized a variety of lilies and yucca. Many things I don't recognize. Our first full day in La Fortuna we saw the bright blue sky. The only day of sun for the last week.

We have had a good view of Arenal volcano, except for the top which has been covered in clouds. It was the volcano that we came to see. Unfortunately for us, it has gone somewhat dormant in the last few months. Since its big eruption 45 years ago, it has constantly spewed and oozed, posing no harm to the surrounding area. Apparently at night you could see sparks shooting out of the top. We wanted to see that, but no go. It has stopped the fireworks. What a disappointment. But there is still a fair amount to see and do.