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☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆

☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆

Photo gallery for ☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆

Covered veranda by infinity pool
Front of Villa
Main entry
Airiel
Property grounds

Overview of ☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆

Reviews
10 out of 10 Exceptional
2 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 6372 sq m

Popular amenities

  • PoolPoolPool
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • Barbecue grillBarbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Free WiFiFree WiFiFree WiFi
  • WasherWasherWasher
  • DryerDryerDryer

Explore the area

Map
Dominical, San Jose Province
  • Popular LocationAlturas Wildlife Sanctuary12 min drive
  • Popular LocationHacienda Baru13 min drive
  • Popular LocationNauyaca Waterfalls25 min drive
  • AirportPalmar (PMZ-Palmar Sur)55 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Den

1 Double Futon

EAST JUNGLE BEDROOM

1 King Bed

WEST JUNGLE BEDROOM

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆

Located just 20 minutes up from the Costnenera Highway between the towns of Dominical to the north and Uvita to the south a partially paved road (4 wheel drive mandatory) winds it way thru the jungle to the gated community of Costa Verde Estates. There you will find Casa de Zen the only home located at the end of a dead end road. Privacy abounds so if you are the kind of person who enjoys the likes of traffic, police sirens or other unnatural noise pollutants this is certainly not the home for you

Casa de Zen offers an unparalleled serenity skillfully chiseled into the mountain side surrounded by Old world primary rainforest on three sides. Tastefully decorated with an array of natural local wood, stained glass and muted colors that emulate the surrounding landscape this Casa has all the creature comforts to make you feel right at home. Air-conditioners are in the bedrooms only but rarely needed. Rising high above the coastline below ocean breezes cool the temperature by a whopping 10 degrees compared to lower elevations making it quite comfortable day and night.

The casa consists of two large Master bedrooms complete with private baths both located on opposite sides of the house giving you yet again the feel of intimacy even while sharing the home with other guests. The comfortable oversized open air livingroom has the atmosphere of a movie theatre complete with a big screen TV and comfortable seating for your viewing pleasure. There is absolutely no bad seat in this house. Whether it's movies, classic TV, documentries or sports we have it all via a Roku box or choose from a large selection of DVD's or CD's from our extensive libraries.

The lush landscape was professionally designed by an award winning American landscape archetect using local flora and fauna that melds into the surrounding jungle complete with Papaya and Mango trees. Open spaces include sculptured well maintained rich lawns that sweep over the jungle's edge bringing a plethora of fireflies as the night falls. Night lighting is also a beautiful addition to this enchanted land artistically positioned to up light trees in the jungle and give much needed light to the pathways on a black as ink night.

No tropical paradise would be complete without an infinity edge salt water pool complete with in pool seating overlooking the Pacific Ocean. If you're not wanting to float around on an air mattress in the pool then a pool shelf with lounge chairs is just the ticket for you in an area submerged in just 8 inches of water. And yes, the pool butts right up to the jungle giving it the feel more like a lagoon than a pool itself. Imagine drinking cold fruity umbrella drinks with ice served straight from the ice machine in your outdoor kitchen. Life doesn't get any better than this.


Enjoy a cup of coffee at sunrise with the sounds of hundreds of songbirds serenading a new day as Howler monkeys feast on tasty leaves in the canopy tops above. White faced monkeys will keep you amused with their antics and acrobatic finesse. As you relax on the oversized Veranda the unobstructed breath taking views of the Pacific Ocean lie 1700 feet below overlooking the famous Whale’s Tail where it is not unusual to observe the almighty Humpback Whale in it's natural habitat. Past the Whales Tail the view sweeps over the ocean to the Osa Peninsula and Cano Island which has some of the finest diving and snorkeling in Costa Rica.

Be prepared to listen to the green parrots squawking noisily as they compete for the many fruits that the Peach Palms offer. Handsome Toucan's dressed in mini tuxedos will nose dive down into the jungle to add just another dimension to this lush paradise. If you are a big fan of butterflies there are entirely too many different varieties to count in just one hour.

As the sun starts to set you return to your slice of Heaven after a long day of hiking, swimming, fishing, zip lining or Whale watching. Rinse off in your outdoor private shower and settle in with a sparkling glass of wine. As darkness falls upon the land starlight intermingled with the lights of Uvita and Ojochal twinkling to life in the yonder valley. As the jungle grows silent for the night the soothing sounds of the waves crashing below brings a joyful peace and time for reflection from a long day filled with life long memories.

☆☆☆ All this can be found during the popular season known as the HIGH SEASON or DRY SEASON starting in late November thru mid to late April. During these months Costa Rica comes alive with oil slicked beach goers, surfers and nature fanatics enjoying in abundance the warm, dry, sun-filled days.

☆☆☆ The LOW SEASON or GREEN SEASON is May thru November which allows for a Seasonal discounted Rental fee. This low season allows you an exclusive one on one with nature. As the rainy season rejuvenates the jungle our on site Waterfall comes alive and peeks through the jungle as it cascades into our Rio Zen below. Personally one of our favorite times of the year. There truly is no need to make the long drive to the Monte Verde Cloud Forrest because the cloud Forrest will come to you.

Come visit and stay at Casa de Zen . Your life long memories await.

Property manager

Ellen Philbin

Languages

English

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 28
Check out before 9:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17
With any pool/jungle setting there is dangers

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed
Please check with owners.

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Smoking allowed outside ONLY.
Please treat our home with love and respect as you would treat your own home.
No loud music or noise after 9:00 PM

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Barú

Located in Barú, this villa is in a rural area and by the sea. Punta Uvita and Marino Ballena National Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Sunset Surf Dominical - Day Lessons and Costa Rica Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Dominical, San Jose Province

What's nearby

  • Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary - 12 min drive
  • Hacienda Baru - 13 min drive
  • Playa Dominical - 19 min drive
  • Marino Ballena National Park - 23 min drive
  • Nauyaca Waterfalls - 25 min drive

Getting around

  • Quepos (XQP) - 50 min drive

Restaurants

  • Sibu - 17 min drive
  • Coco's Restaurant - 16 min drive
  • Uvita Beer Garden - 21 min drive
  • Fuego Brew Company - 16 min drive
  • Cafe Mono Congo - 15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does ☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆ have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is ☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆ pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at ☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at ☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆?

Checkout is at 9:00 AM.

Where is ☆☆the Tranquility Of Casa De Zen☆☆Costa Rica At It's Finest☆☆ located?

Located by the sea, this family-friendly villa is within 6 mi (10 km) of Playa Dominicalito, Sunset Surf Dominical - Day Lessons, and Playa Dominical. Costa Rica Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Playa Barú are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 19 out of 20 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 20 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 20 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 20 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 20 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Paradise
If I had to use one word to sum up this VRBO home, it would be PARADISE. The home is very well-appointed, with magnificent views of the ocean. We spent much time in the infinity edge pool, gazing at the beautiful view. The home featured two large bedrooms as well as two large bathrooms, (en suite), a half bath and even a wonderful outdoor shower, (we never used the indoor showers). The kitchen was well appointed and had everything one needs to prepare any meal. The landscape is perfect and the lighted pool and uplighting on the landscape at night were nothing short of stunning. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the owners who took the time to answer any questions and to show us around their beautiful home. If you seek relaxation, Casa de Zen is what you want for your Costa Rican vacation!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A blessed place
Casa de Zen is a true gem. I spent 9 unforgettable days there with my wife and 2 children, aged 12 and 15. The house is very spacious and well equipped, including remarkably reliable WiFi and a wonderful grill. But the best of all is the location -- ensconced in the mountain overlooking the ocean and tail-shaped Playa Uvita. The view is spectacular. Enjoying it while surrounded by nature, including toucans and morphos, while relaxing in the pool, is simply a miracle. I don’t think the pictures here do justice to the beauty of the house and its surroundings. Besides, the whole area is extraordinarily beautiful, with plenty of beaches and places to visit, including Corcovado National Park and Caño Island. I'm Costa Rican and I can say that this is probably the most beautiful stretch of coastline in the country. Both Dominical and Uvita (about 25m drives in both cases) offer plenty of options to buy supplies of all kinds. Bob and Ellen are wonderful, warm and helpful hosts, so good in fact that we celebrated New Year's Eve with them. One note of caution, though: the drive up the mountain from the main road is not easy. It takes 15-20 minutes to go up or down on a tricky gravel road, and this was during the dry season. A tall 4x4 vehicle is a must. The good thing is that the place is so beautiful that you may decide to spend entire days at the house without going anywhere. We shall return to Casa de Zen, a magical place!
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dori P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great hosts and great house
We spent 2 months at this house hosted by Ellen and Bob who are so gracious and accommodating. They live in the casita and their presence was very advantageous as Bob was able to be a huge help with our flat tire for example. Or when we lost power or other jungle issues because you are truly in the jungle! As the washer and dryer are not in the house and only in the casita, there is laundry service courtesy of Ellen. I have not been near a washing machine or dryer for 2 months. Quite liberating! The house itself is quite spacious with a bedroom on either side which is great for privacy. The pool is great and the breezes are amazing. The ride up on a very bumpy road is 16 minutes long and don’t even think of not getting a 4x4! You will not get up that mountain without it. But the view is gorgeous and well worth the bumpy ride!!
Stayed 55 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa B., Florida

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Must See Property
We loved every moment of our stay. Our plans were to pretty much stay put.... why go anywhere when you can wake to howler monkeys, enjoy the sunrise, watch hummingbirds flit from bush to vine, swim in the most beautiful pool with a water feature, and be visited by coatis, agoutis and toucans almost every day. Other than a trip to the store and a visit to Whale's Tale, we were totally thrilled just to be here! The owner is a fabulous landscape architect and it is evident everywhere you look.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Pat B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A true slide of heaven in Costa Rica
We came to Casa de Zen for our 20th wedding anniversary, hoping for a much-needed break from the rat race, stress and general mayhem of the last couple of years. We could not have chosen better. The house is beyond gorgeous, and is complete with all the essentials plus the extra touches to make it special. The many porches and decks provide access to the unbelievable view of Bahia Ballena - we were there in the rainy season, but enjoyed watching the clouds over the ocean with the decks providing shelter - we were able to enjoy both rain and shine due to the thoughtful design of the house inside and out. It was our first trip to Costa Rica, which our gracious (and fun!) hosts Bob and Ellen were aware of, and they made an effort to point out wildlife as it came by (they stay in a nearby casita). Their presence was welcome, not intrusive, and they truly give you peace and privacy while being a ready resource for all things in the area including restaurants, sites to see, etc. We were thrilled to see white-faced monkeys, coati, a toucan and even a sloth - all in their natural habitat in nearby trees. The landscaping is beautiful and blends with the area, giving you a feel of living in the rainforest while having modern luxuries. The plunge pool was cool and refreshing, the fountain adding another pleasant layer of sound - the whole auditory experience was like one week-long relaxation tape! Dining in the area we found to be outstanding with a wide variety of cuisines available in nearby Uvita and Dominical. Fair warning that the road from the highway to the house REQUIRES A 4-WHEEL DRIVE vehicle - don't poo-poo this. It's very bumpy, rutted, and narrow, so forewarned is forearmed. As long as you take your time climbing up, you'll be fine. While it was only the two of us at this lovely home, it would be ideal for two couples as both bedrooms have ensuite baths and are at opposite ends of the home - plus with all the outdoor living spaces you can have separate space as well. I could rave on and on about this special home - and it IS a home that Bob and Ellen have felt compelled to share with the world. If you are considering Costa Rica and are looking for a retreat from the world, this may just be your place. Pura Vida!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

About the host

Hosted by Ellen Philbin

Host profile image
Hello and Welcome to our home!
My husband Bob and I would like to thank you for your interest in our our own little piece of paradise.
We're originally from Long Island, New York and then relocated to Denver, Colorado after a business opportunity surfaced . Bob was a successful award winning Landscape Archetect back in the United States along with his many building designs. I on the other hand spent my entire career in the world of Banking.
We have two married adult sons living in upstate New York along with a total of six grandchildren. Although we miss the kids with all our hearts, the thought of just one more winter shoveling snow and scraping ice off the windshield finally convinced us hands down that a tropical ocean view home was just the ticket. So Bob and I decided to make the move to Costa Rica and never looked back.

Why they chose this property

Casa de Zen was designed by Bob in 2014 and the house was completed in 2015. Bob spent many mornings and evenings sitting on a lawn chair during the day lite hours and early evening hours on a virgin plot of land planning for a "just right" positioning of the house so that the heat of the day would not effect the comfort of the home itself nor interfere with the stunning views . Giving the house a constant comfortable temperature of 70 - 75° . Cooler at night.

Unlike a majority of homes in our neighborhood Bob designed this home to not be a clear cut lot, but to nestle the home amongst the jungle making it feel like it grew out of the land itself leaving the trees and the jungle the way mother nature intended it to be.
Also on site is a detached studio with one queen sized bed and one full sized pull out couch. This seperate sleeping area offers sleeping room for 4 more guests. Included is a refrigerator to keep snacks and drinks cold. Teenagers getting on your nerves? Perfect get away for them.
Unlike the United States where basically you know your day to day schedule, Casa de Zen offers a truly different experience that changes daily.
Our neighbors are not of the human kind but an over abundance of wild life. Armadillo, Deer, Howler Monkeys, Picotes, Capuchin monkeys, Toucan's, paccaries, tree frogs and way too many birds and butterflies to count. This is just to name a few. Maybe you can add a few that we haven't seen yet.

On the property (in season) you will find edibles like pineapple, mangos, papaya, peppers, and a baby lemon tree not yet ready to produce fruit. In the near future oranges, avocados, limes, starfruit and various other edibles will be introduced.

What makes this property unique

Casa de Zen is located exactly between Uvita to the south and Dominical to the north (9 km to each).
Uvita is where we do all our grocery shopping, Banking, Liquor Stores and Medical Services. Further past Uvita is Ojochal with some of the South Pacific coast's finest dining.
Dominical is a quaint little surf town offering many tourist attractions, shopping and smaller restaurants. There is also the Dominical Tourist Information Center which I highly recommend.

If you don't want to travel all that far, the Jolly Roger Bar and Grill is about 15 minutes down the mountain offering giant hamburgers, hot wings, local musicians and large screen TV's for your favorite sports teams. Nothing like watching the Superbowl in the middle of the jungle.

Back to Casa de Zen....In the "Green Season" Casa de Zen has an on site Waterfall that feeds into Rio Zen in our East Jungle. The Green season is beyond stunning with the feel of Jurassic Park and the thought of maybe a dinosaur or two looming in the jungle could be a possiblibility (?!)

I stepped out the norm here and did away with stark white walls and added a touch of pastel color to emulate the surrounding landscape. Stained glass for a touch of artistic beauty and natural wood to soften up the house and to give it a more natural organic feel. I also designed etched glass at the front entrance, over the transoms,
The wall facing the Ocean totally opens up to a 25 foot opening with large glass pocket doors for an unobstructed view of the Pacific Ocean, the Whale’s tail, Osa Peninsula and Cano Island. Below at night you will spy the twinkling lights of Uvita & Ojochal to the south.

This is a fine home to just "Chill" and get in touch with nature and yourself. Whether it's to meditate, do yoga, create, Honeymoon or just unwind.....Come see why we call this "Casa de Zen"

Languages:

English
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