How does soaking in hot mineral springs, right at the foot of a volcano sound?  That's what awaits you at the 114-room Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort in La Fortuna/Arenal, Costa Rica. 

The resort is located in a dramatic rainforest setting at the base of the Arenal Volcano and is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and the Leading Spas of the World, as well as the recipient of four-leaf designation for Sustainable Tourism.

The adjoining hot springs offer natural waterfalls and pools ranging from 80 to 107°F, surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The Grand Spa has 11 outdoor treatment bungalows, each with private Jacuzzi; a Yoga bungalow; and an extensive menu of indigenous treatments including Watsu in outdoor thermal river pools. 

Tabacón welcomes moms, dads and kids with a new Family Package -- a 4N/5D stay at the resort for $3100, a savings of 30%.

Available through December 19, 2009, the package is designed for families of four and includes:
• -- Transfers from the airport to the resort
• -- 4 nights in two Superior Rooms (rooms will be connecting, if available)
• -- Daily Breakfast Buffet
• -- Waterfall Rappelling adventure
• -- $400 Spa credit ($100 per person, non-transferable)
• -- Signature Temazcal sweat lodge ritual
• -- Signature Gala Dinner in private bungalow in the rainforest, with private chef and waiter

* Packages are based on availability and double occupancy in each room, must be paid in full at the time of booking, and are non-refundable, non-changeable and non-transferable. Blackout dates: November 25-29, 2009.

Will this be only one stop on your Costa Rica tour? If you only have time for a 3N stay, the hotel's special Stay 2, Get 3 Nights deal offers more than $500 in savings. It includes a double room, welcome drink and buffet breakfast, plus a $100 bonus per person towards any treatment in the Grand Spa.

Through December 19, 2009, the 3N stay costs only $717 for two. Kids will pay $230 per package if they're 12-years and older; $115 for ages 6 to 11-years-old, all if sharing existing bedding in the room. New parents who want to tote baby will find that guests ages 0 to 5-years are always free.

The cuisine is an unusual blend of Ayurvedic, spa, Mexican and Costa Rican. Nearby activities beyond the resort include ziplining, nature tours, canyoning, and hiking to the Arenal volcano as well as the delights featured in my family-friendly roundup of the area: Costa Rica's Soft Adventures.

For information and reservations, visit their site or call toll-free 877/277-8291 (US and Canada only) or call the resort directly at 506/ 2519-1999 in Costa Rica.