Welcome to Casablanca
A modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom home designed over two floors, set in the tranquil village of El Castillo on the southern shore of Lake Arenal and facing directly toward the iconic Arenal Volcano. This beautifully constructed 92 m² American-style residence sits quietly above the road on a 1,084 m² lot and offers a rare blend of contemporary comfort, rainforest immersion, and true Costa Rican authenticity. Although the property has neighboring homes and is very much part of the village, it feels remarkably secluded. The rainforest naturally camouflages the home, giving you a sense of privacy while still offering easy access to local services and the short drive to La Fortuna.
THE HOME — Modern, Warm & Immersed in Nature
Casablanca was thoughtfully designed to immerse you in the outdoors, creating an almost treehouse-like living experience where the surrounding forest is ever- present. Large windows and elevated viewpoints fill the home with natural light and panoramic glimpses of the volcano, lake, and rainforest. Inside, the aesthetic is warm and contemporary. Rich wood ceilings run throughout, adding texture and craftsmanship. Fully air-conditioned, this home ensures comfort year-round. Custom furniture made from exotic hardwoods brings richness and character to each room. Built-in beds, elegant side tables, a work station, and a functioning fireplace in the living room reflect the meticulous level of detail present in the home. Casablanca is sold fully furnished with tasteful, high-quality pieces, making it truly turnkey.
THE KITCHEN — Smart Design, Beautifully Executed
The cozy, beautifully appointed kitchen is a masterclass in intelligent use of space. Despite its compact footprint, it offers impressive storage through well-planned cabinetry and thoughtful layout. The moveable central island is one of the kitchen’s most versatile features. Set on wheels, it’s topped with a solid exotic-wood countertop and fitted with an integrated gas cooktop, allowing you to prepare meals while staying fully connected with guests. It also serves as a comfortable breakfast bar, ideal for morning coffee or casual dining. Because it can be repositioned, it adapts effortlessly, expanding the living area when more space is needed. The refrigerator is neatly built into a custom enclosure that keeps the kitchen looking streamlined and contemporary while providing additional hidden storage behind and around it.
THE MAIN FLOOR BEDROOM — Privacy & Comfort
The main floor bedroom is discreetly tucked away just off the main living area, offering privacy and comfort. It features its own well-appointed private bathroom with a walk-in shower, along with patio doors that open directly onto a terrace and the garden.
THE PRINCIPAL SUITE — A Private Sanctuary Among the Trees
A beautifully crafted solid-wood staircase leads to the expansive open-concept principal suite on the upper level. Floor-to-ceiling windows and patio doors create a seamless connection to the outdoors, making the forest feel like an extension of the room itself. Step onto the private balcony and you’ll enjoy beautiful vantage points of the Arenal Volcano, one of the best views on the property, framed by forest and sky. The ensuite bathroom continues the home’s theme of indoor-outdoor harmony. With floor-to-ceiling windows, exquisite fixtures, and a beautiful wood-look floor, it feels bright, serene, and spa-like.
THE LOT — Mature Gardens & Exceptional Potential
Surrounded by mature gardens filled with an endless variety of fruit trees, flowering plants, and herbs, the property features an elevated covered terrace, a natural viewpoint, where you can sit and take in the beautiful views of Lake Arenal. Just beyond this viewpoint lies another elevated section of the property with clear development potential. A small casita could easily be constructed here and used as a guesthouse, workspace, gym, or art studio. This upper area is positioned far enough from the main residence to offer privacy, yet remains thoughtfully integrated into the landscape.
A SUCCESSFUL AIRBNB RETREAT
Casablanca operates as a high-demand short-term rental with a consistent 5-star rating on Airbnb. Guests love the privacy, rainforest ambiance, elevated design, and proximity to both adventure and tranquility. Its strong rental history underscores the property’s investment value and income potential.
WHY CASABLANCA IS AN ATTRACTIVE PURCHASE
Casablanca stands out as an excellent buy for investors seeking a high-performing, low-maintenance property in one of the region’s most desirable nature-centric villages. As demand continues to spill over from La Fortuna, El Castillo has become a quiet premium pocket with strong year-round occupancy. This modern American-style home already holds a consistent 5-star Airbnb rating, offers beautiful volcano and lake glimpses, and benefits from a calmer, more exclusive environment with far less competition than La Fortuna. For buyers seeking reliable returns, strong guest appeal, and long-term value in a wellness-driven micro-destination, Casablanca is a compelling and rare opportunity.
A PLACE UNLIKE ANYWHERE ELSE
Costa Rica has many towns with volcano vistas and jungle excursions, but El Castillo is different. It’s an intimate blend of raw nature, outdoor adventure, and true Costa Rican culture—packed into a small but unforgettable community. The Arenal Volcano appears from virtually every vantage point in El Castillo, becoming an unmistakable and ever-present part of the landscape. The calming energy of Lake Arenal transforms evenings into something magical. You’re also minutes from Arenal Volcano National Park, the famous Arenal Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall, butterfly conservations, kayaking, fishing, Sky Adventures, and so much more. And when you want more services and amenities, La Fortuna is just 15 minutes away, offering dining, cafés, bakeries, supermarkets, souvenir shops, and much more. The property is also well-positioned to the Liberia International Airport, allowing for easy access for travelers arriving from abroad.
Casablanca presents a lifestyle and setting that are hard to find in the Arenal area. With its iconic views, established rental appeal, and undeniable charm, its an opportunity that won't remain available for long!
