UPDATE:  rooms have been updated in 2019; in terms of dining the tapas restaurant does not exist anymore

Beautiful building and grounds, mediocre rooms, good food:

My family (two adults and a teen) chose Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen as first stop in Costa Rica after flying in from Switzerland. It is ideally located for this purpose as it is only a five-minute drive from the airport. It is in a quiet although rather odd situation for a hotel (industrial zone).

Nevertheless, it was quite a nice experience when getting here. This is because the building and the grounds are beautiful (hacienda style). Employees at the front desk were friendly and helpful. Although, we had to queue for quite some time upon checking in and out.

We had booked two rooms of the least expensive category as we only stayed one night. They were just like all the other rooms you usually find at a Marriott property. Hence they were pretty basic. This was notably so for the bathrooms, which were simple shower/bathtub combos.

We had dinner at the tapas restaurant and were pleased with the offered food. As we were very tired we went to bed quite early (about 10 p.m). This was a bad idea as there was quite a hustle and bustle in the hallways (we were on the first floor to the front). I would maybe recommend a room on an upper floor and going to the rear (pool). We had breakfast on the porch, which was pleasant. And the buffet was worthwhile ordering. 

Overall, this place is a good stop for the arrival or departure day. The hacienda styled building is a true gem, but I would not recommend it for a longer stay.

Date of stay: April 2012