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Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
5.0
Travelers' Choice 2023
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
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PRICE RANGE
₱5,612.00 – ₱8,418.00
CUISINES
Italian, Mediterranean
Special Diets
Vegan Options
meals, features
Does this restaurant have a full bar?
Details
About
Costa Rica’s only castle - Castillo de Lilo is the place to live your dream in harmony with nature. Located in Potrero Beach in the northwest region of Guanacaste, the castle is in one of the most touristic areas of the country. This remarkable castle is situated on the highest peak of the surrounding mountains, at a height of 2,230 feet above sea level, in a strategic and sensational peak.
PRICE RANGE
₱5,612.00 – ₱8,418.00
CUISINES
Italian, Mediterranean
Special Diets
Vegan Options
Meals
Dinner
FEATURES
Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Table Service
Contribute
5.0
103 reviews
Excellent
101
Very good
1
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Alanna L
13 contributions
Dec 2021 • couples
An absolutely magical sunset dinner in a modern castle on top of a mountain with 360 views of the surrounding forest and ocean. My boyfriend and I were staying in Tamarindo, we were looking for a romantic fine dining experience and Castillo de Lilo surpassed our expectations completely. It was hard to find the correct turns as GPS in the area is spotty, but Ericka was able to be reached on WhatsApp and spoke through the directions for us. We were welcomed upon arrival and it truly felt like the Castillo was ours for the evening. We had a private guided tour of the building and the history surrounding it’s beginnings. This is an extremely exclusive, unique, and intimate experience. Not only did we have our own private terrace for dinner, but we were free to explore every room and tower, there was beautiful soft acoustic music being played and we even felt inclined to dance between courses. Next to the venue, the food was equally fantastic and gourmet. Chef Marco and Ericka put so much thought into making a memorable evening for every guest, coming up to us like old friends. If you are looking for an experience of a lifetime, this is worth the drive and value spent.
I recommend coordinating transportation with Ericka because it truly takes skill to get up the steep incline of the mountain side.
Written December 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
frank
Flanders2 contributions
Jan 2023 • couples
Be prepared for a very special evening. Be sure to make a reservation at your first opportunity, seating is limited to 15.
You are greeted by the owner, Erika as you step out of your car and treated like family. The evening starts with a tour of the Castle and it’s incredible history. You end up on the top of the castle at the end of the tour and experience breath taking views of the entire area. Here you are served appetizers and Preseco, as you walk around mingling with the other guests and taking in the views. In the distance you can see the cloud covered peak of Arenal Volcano as well as another volcano I don’t remember the name of. You can also see the runway of Liberia International airport. The 360 degree views of the sea, and mountains are just awesome.
Fantastic spot to take in the sunset, after which you enjoy a gourmet dinner prepared by Erika’s husband who is a trained gourmet Chef from Turin, Italy. The food and service are impeccable. You preorder your selections for the three course meal a few days in advance which allows for the freshest of food. I had a seafood mix over wide Italian noodles and my wife had the salmon, both very good. Dessert was very good, followed by the chefs homemade version of Limoncello, but from coconut. My new favorite.
By the time you leave for your trek down the mountain you feel like you are leaving family and you plan for your next visit.
Written January 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paige A
Atlanta11 contributions
Aug 2022 • family
This is a total out of the way gem with an amazing history dating back to a love story after WWII. Erika and Marcos have lovingly finished the castle and provide a personalized and amazing evening sunset, drinks, appetizers and a lovely meal. This is my third time bringing friends and you can just do sunset (in our case this time an amazing view of watching a storm Roll in) appetizers and drinks with the tour or for $40 more have a full meal up there. I recommend the latter is the way to go!
Written August 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
macc60
Little Rock78 contributions
Dec 2021 • couples
This was our third visit to this magical place and everyone we bring here agrees that it is the most memorable experience of their trip.
The beauty of Castle is second only to the charm and hospitality of the hosts/owner, Ericka and Marco. Their love of the Castle and their devotion to the memory of the prior owner is heartwarming.
From the top two levels you are provided with a 360 degree view that allows you to see landmarks miles away and to view a “ceiling” of stars that are far more numerous than you can see when you are in town. It is, of course, also an amazing setting to watch an unforgettable sunset while sipping a glass of wonderful Prosecco and enjoying appetizers before Ericka shares the history of the Castle.
Ericka’s recounting of the emotional history behind the Castle describes how love, devotion and perseverance is the common thread from the inception to the current time will move you and may make you believe in fairy tales.
Marco’s creativity is not limited to his culinary talents and you will see evidence of it throughout the castle - in the light fixtures, art, furniture and other surprises you will be treated to during your visit. Erika and Marco are so accommodating and while they will usually give you several choices of entrées, appetizers and desserts, they were also willing to step outside their comfort zone and provided special vegan meals for us that were delicious and so inventive. Don’t miss Castillo de lilo - it will be the highlight of your trip!
Written August 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Megan
16 contributions
Dec 2021 • family
A must-do experience if you are in Costa Rica!
Our evening there was like a dream; from the amazing 360 views, incredible sunset appetizers, to the heartfelt story behind the castle (you will hear all about it during your time there). We loved getting to meet Ericka and Marco and hearing their beautiful Costa Rican / Italian / German story.
The castle is spectacular for photos, with the ocean and greenery all around in the background. We had our own private terrace to enjoy our dinner as a family, which made the experience even more special.
The peak of all the exquisite sensory experiences during this evening was the gourmet dinner, handmade by Marco, using Italian and Costa Rican techniques with locally-sourced, fresh ingredients.
We took our baby and he had a great time! We are so glad we took advantage of the shuttle option, as that gave us the opportunity to enjoy the evening and not worry about getting to/from the castle.
Hands down one of the highlights of our holiday season and a unique experience we can’t recommend this enough. I think this makes a great experience gift too!
Written January 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa A
14 contributions
Mar 2022 • none
This trip surpassed all my expectations. Rather than a touristy affair this felt like a truly private tour of a person's home and life experience!
Our hotel taxi transported us to the highest peak on which stood this architectural beauty.
Formerly designed by the late Klaus Jung, a gifted engineer it is now owned by his dear friends Erica & Marco. Together they have encapsulated the legacy of Klaus whilst also providing a beautiful backdrop for dinners or special events.
We were welcomed by Erica on arrival who toured us through the castle. Each room had a different style and so many interesting designs and art to view.
We then had drinks on the castle terrace whilst enjoying delicious served appetizers against the backdrop of the stunning sunset. It felt like our own private party!
Pre dinner Erika told us the history of the castle and shared a very unique, tragic and emotional story. We got to hear how Erika and Marco inherited the castle and their mission to finish the project and create a perfect venue.
Dinner was served to us in a private area of the castle on an outdoor terrace. Marco is an incredible chef and the food was delicious.
Thank-you Erika and Marco for your authentic hospitality! We will be back!!!
Written March 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pindzfish
New York City1 contribution
Feb 2022 • none
I just held my wedding at Castillo de Lilo on February 19, 2022. We had 60 people attend from all over the world. My now husband and I are from New York so it was no small feat to plan a wedding and travel for 60 of our closest friends and family. When I googled event spaces in Potrero, Castillo de Lilo was one of the first to come up. I saw it and thought there is NO WAY this space will be available and magically it was. If your dream is to get married in a white castle on the top of a mountain with sweeping views of the ocean...well...look no further. Dreams do come true. Marco and Ericka are the owners of this incredible space and as soon as you meet them and stand in this space you feel like you are part of their family. They treat you like royalty every step of the way. Marco, also the chef, was very amenable in helping us create the perfect menu. He is an extremely skilled chef from Italy, and his food was delicious. Ericka and her dear friend Alice have just started their own wedding planning business and we luckily got to be one of the first weddings they planned. Alice and Ericka helped us secure lodging, transportation, and countless recommendations, and ideas while planning this trip. I am an event planner as well and what a treat it was not to have to research any of the decor, shuttles, furniture, florals, photographers, and musicians. They understood our vision from the beginning and handled everything. Every detail was executed beautifully. Even very last minute details, Alice and Erica made it happen flawlessly. We can't express our gratitude enough. Just book it immediately.
Written March 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter L
1 contribution
Aug 2021 • none
If you want a unique dinner experience near Las Catalinas, Castillo de Lilo is a good choice. Upon arrival we were greeted with wine and an amazing view of the shoreline and sun setting over the ocean. Ericka gave us a tour of the castle and explained to us the history behind it. She took great pride in telling the story of the castle's engineer and his legacy. Then we sat down for private 3-course meal prepared by Ericka's husband Marco. I recommend the salmon or mahi mahi! Overall it was great experience. It seemed the other 2 couples enjoyed it too.
Written September 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mark S
1 contribution
Dec 2023 • couples
Perhaps the most unique dining experience of a lifetime. After being treated to the fascinating history of the Castle and enjoying a Costa Rican sunset from the top of a mountain, you will be treated to an exquisite meal prepared and served with the utmost attention to detail. The hosts, Ericka and Marco are gracious, lovely people who care deeply about Castillo De Lilo. Do not miss out on this.
Written December 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
fnct
Succasunna784 contributions
Jan 2023 • none
Go for the gourmet food, unbelievable views and a story about the castle that you will always remember. Advise, you need a reservation well in advance, it only seats 15 people. Also, have a driver take you there and back. A very challenging drive up the mountain on winding dirt and gravel road that is narrow and the grade is steep.
Written February 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Katherine L
Charlotte4 contributions
Jan 2024 • friends
Visiting Castillo De Lilo was one of the most unique and wonderful experiences I have ever had. The minute our group stepped off our shuttle, we were blown away by both the views and the hospitality of our hosts, Ericka and her husband Marco, we felt like they were friends by the time we were leaving. The 360 degree views from the castle are stunning and watching the sunset over the Pacific with the appetizers and recommended drinks was an experience we will not soon forget. We loved getting to hear the history of the castle and Ericka's story and vision- having that personal touch made it even more special. Chef Marco prepared food that was fantastic and personally came around to explain each dish. It was such a unique and wonderful experience, one that I would recommend to anyone traveling to the area!
Written January 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
S S
2 contributions
Jan 2023 • family
This was my second time visiting Castillo de Lilo. This time it was 8 family members of 3 generations gathered together for an incredible meal. Ericka was incredibly gracious, personable, accommodating and kind as always- especially with some unexpected circumstances prior to arrival. Ericka and Marco love their work and put their hearts and souls into the castle, the food and all the experience. It is such a gift they share. We are incredibly grateful. Whenever do you get to see 3 countries, all from one perch? Or eat dinner in a castle? So amazing. The drive up is not for the faint of heart!
Written January 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scott K
11 contributions
Apr 2021 • none
My husband and I had a fantastic evening at Castillo de Lilo, and we were fortunate enough to have the castle to ourselves! Ericka is a wonderful and charming host, and her husband Marco is a fantastic chef. We started with Prosecco and delicious apps on the roof while we watched the sunset, and then had a delicious, decadent dinner on the 2nd floor terrace. If you are staying in the area, this expertises is a must!
Written April 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin S
Omaha25 contributions
May 2021 • none
We traveled with a group of 10 for my husband's 50th birthday. I was told by our airbnb host to contact Ericka for dinner reservations. Ericka was wonderful to work with and helped plan a magical night. We planned a quick turnaround from airport arrival, to unpacking, to getting in car for a champagne sunset toast with our friends at Castillo de Lilo. I can't begin to tell you what a magical beautiful place this is....and the views!!! I highly recommend this place for your first or second night in the Guanacaste area. This location gives you an overall breathtaking sense of the area.
Our birthday boy loves live music so Ericka sent me a few local musician recommendations via youtube. I chose Chelsea. Our group enjoyed Chelsea so much, we invited her to play for us on our last evening in Las Catalinas. Thank you for the recommendation Ericka.
Ericka's husband Marco is a wonderful chef. The appetizers on the rooftop and the beautiful dinner presentation was a delight. The whole evening was perfection.
Thank you for everything Ericka, Marco and staff. Keep up the good work and here's to a successful 2021 and beyond. Cheers to you.
Written June 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
moconitrillo
Inglewood15 contributions
Jan 2024 • family
My wife, Vel, and I celebrated our wedding reception at Castillo de Lilo on Monday, February 5, 2024. Marco & Ericka went above & beyond. Vel & I originally wanted a typical Costa Rican dinner, and they provided us with a complimentary dinner sampling when we came to scout the locations in August of 2023. We decided to scrap that idea and go with a hybrid of their menu options. Marco is a top chef! On the evening of our wedding reception, Vel and I had planned to change outfits, but I forgot to add them to the transport pile, so only my black slacks made it. I can only blame myself for that error! Vel, in a panic, I assume, said I would come out shirtless. I knew that that was how I would end the night, but Ericka wasn't having it, so she immediately took me to Marco's work closet and grabbed me a dress shirt. What a lifesaver! The dress shirt you can see me wearing in the pics I've added is Marco's, and it looks fabulous! Vel & I were also having issues with our wire transfer, so Ericka came to where we stayed with a credit card reader to get it done. Once again, thank you! Vel & I highly recommend Castillo de Lilo, Marco, and Ericka!
Written April 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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