History of Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort.
Tabacón originated during the eighties as a local hot spring pool and restaurant known as Balneario Tabacón. In 1991,a group of Costa Rican investors hired Architect Jaime Mikowski to design and build a world-class hot springs complex, taking advantage of the natural assets of the location. Arch. Mikowski designed a complex that puts nature in center stage, supported by an infrastructure of 5 spring pools, one restaurant of international standards, lockers and other services. This marks the birth of Tabacón Resort, a tourist destination harnessing from the qualities of the thermal mineral river, the scenic beauty of the Arenal Volcano, and its unique rain forest setting.
Tabacon Resort opened to the public in April 1993. For four years it operated as a tourist destination and thanks to its growing reputation as one of the must-see destinations in Costa Rica, contributed to the growth of La Fortuna and the Arenal area. By the end of 1990, this region became the second most visited region in Costa Rica by international tourists.
By the end of 1997, Tabacón Lodge opened to the public with 42 rooms. During the next few years it expanded its facilities with a thermal mineral spring pool and Jacuzzi, a formal restaurant, and 40 additional rooms.
Between 1997 and 2000, the Iskandria Spa was created on the resort grounds. Iskandria offered 8 therapy rooms, and is quickly renowned for its services and treatments such as Swedish massage, deep facials, md wraps and reflexology. The Spa was expanded in 2001 with 5 additional rooms and a wider array of treatments, including the introduction of never before seen therapies in Costa Rica, such as Watsu.
During 2004, the resort opened 28 new guest rooms and changed the location of the Hotel Front Desk, adding a new lobby bar, a bigger gift shop and a meeting room for groups.
By mid 2005, Tabacón began a 40 room renovation project. Improvements were made in interior design and superior amenities were added. The project, with the addition of new amenities and services, was completed by mid 2006.
Under the direction of Mr. Uwe Wagner, Tabacón changed its identity and upgraded its service standards to earn the distinction of a five-star category hotel by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, according to international standards. In addition, the hotel was awarded membership into The Leading Hotels of the World, one of the most important luxury hotel associations in the world.
Additionally, the Spa infrastructure was upgraded for the opening of The Grand Spa. The Grand Spa takes advantage of its prime location in the rainforest, the thermal mineral waters and the active volcano to offer therapies and treatments that are highly energetic and holistic. The main feature of the Spa is 11 open-air bungalows, where every treatment is carried out by professionally trained therapists.
The Grand Spa at Tabacón specializes in invigorating hydrotherapy treatments and volcanic mud therapies.
Tabacón’s hospitality mission is to provide the ideal setting and personalized services to help you attain a state of complete relaxation.
Specially designed for guests seeking a rewarding escape from daily stress or couples looking for a unique experience.