This handsome earth-tone villa rises from the very top of a lush ridge on the northern side of Manuel Antonio. The views here extend for miles over undulating rain forest to distant beaches, and the sandstone terrace and infinity pool are perfectly positioned to take them in (especially at sunset).
Designed by Costa Rican architect Andrés Brenes, Casa Paraiso is a contemporary take on a traditional banana plantation. And while the overall feel is very modern, there is plenty of attention to local craft. Polished tropical woods serve as decorative accents, a country cooking pot is transformed into a whimsical bathroom sink and the sculpture-like chandelier in the dining room is made from rawhide.
A sprawling 8,500 square feet, Casa Paraiso is plenty roomy – and it feels even more spacious than its size implies, thanks to floor-to-ceiling picture windows and lofty ceilings. The two-story open-plan living room, with red leather couches and a dining table for 12, is especially airy, but even the kitchen, a handsome affair with almost-black cabinets and dark marble counters, is light-filled.
Five bedrooms spread over two stories come with en-suite bathrooms clad in wood and limestone and open to private balconies or terraces. The downstairs terrace and that spectacular pool, however, may prove a stronger draw.
Casa Paraiso is in La Reserva, a hilltop gated community just off the town’s main road.
- The villa overlooks the rain forest; monkeys can be seen clattering through the trees
- Even more wildlife can be seen at the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park
- No beach access, but the infinity pool affords spectacular ocean views
Five bedrooms spread over two stories come with en-suite bathrooms clad in wood and limestone.
- All bedrooms have private balconies or terraces, TVs and iPod docking stations
- Four bedrooms have Kings; one has two Queens
- The second-story master suite has a steam shower with LED lights
