Ultra-Luxurious Oceanfront 1 BR Villa in Las Catalinas

Rare, Refined, perfectly describes the Posada San Rafael, an architecturally significant home for the discriminating traveler. Nestled in the idyllic oceanfront village of Las Catalinas, the extensive alfresco spaces and beautifully executed authentic colonial details will take your breath away. Designed to capture beach views, surf sounds & the sea breezes, it will also capture your heart.
Old monasteries and Latin estancias were the inspiration for the custom fountains, ironwork and lighting found throughout. Artfully integrating luxury with old-world romance, everywhere you look is a feast for the eyes—time-worn columns & pedestals, carved furnishings & artworks, antiques & hand-loomed textiles all give guests a sense of place in this colonial seaside town. Creative architectural elements were meticulously designed to display this curated selection of indigenous Mayan handiwork from the owner’s own collection.

Known in town as one of the more inventive homes, well-placed gates seclude portions of this grand house, transforming this 6-bedroom home into a single suite ultra-luxury villa. If more space is needed, the library converts to another luxe ensuite king (or 2 twins) entirely suitable for another couple or children. The main beachfront entrance gate remains the private entrance to the home. This offering is as rare as seeing a danta on the beach---it’s the only one-bedroom beachfront villa in Las Catalinas.

The king-maker of this gorgeous home is the Suite San Rafael. Sailor Blue doors open the entire oceanfront wall of this room to the beach and the sounds of the surf. The floor to ceiling Cuban-tiled vanity raises the bar of bath design. The adobe walls, 100 yr. old columns, antique doors and massive hand-sawn Guanacaste beams create a step-back-in-time feel--is this a new home or could this be a remodeled estancia from ages past? Tables and lamps designed by the owner and crafted by artisans blend seamlessly with restored antiques. A custom designed bed is a combination of Costa Rican skill and Mayan handiwork, every detail carefully executed to produce a spectacular place of repose. Repurposed hand-loomed indigenous clothing became bed skirts, curtains and pillow covers. Fur rugs are juxtaposed on Saltillo and wood floors…no detail has been overlooked including the luxe linens & bedding.

Outdoor space true to colonial architecture is a hallmark of the San Rafael, with the sounds of fountains and the sea lending a sense of serenity and privacy not found in traditional architecture. As you wander along the balconied hallways and tiled stairways, you will find that the rest of the indoor and outdoor rooms are destinations unto themselves. Climb to a rooftop terrace to enjoy a glass of wine & appetizers served on the fire table. Lay down in warm water in our Cuban tiled star-gazing pool (or fill it with cool water for sunbathing during the day!). Nothing feels as good as a quick dip in a plunge pool off the alfresco living area; and with seating all around the edge, who says you can't enjoy lunch sitting in the cooling waters of your own pool with a view to the ocean? Once you've cooled off, sit on the furniture made for wet bathing suits (please do--that is part of being on vacation!) and read a great novel with the afternoon light filtering through the island shutters and sea surf lulling you to siesta away the heat of the day.

If you've absolutely had enough sun and fun for a bit, the calm indoor library is a great escape for a nap, a game of chess or movie time. When converted into a bedroom, this room rivals the master suite in size and refinement. Close the heavy barn doors and the library converts into a sumptuous master suite with cleverly custom designed furniture which make up into king or twin beds. This suite is the largest suite, filled with art and exotic details. The ensuite bath may be the most extravagant bath in the home with its spacious pebbled shower, Cuban tiled accents and stone sink set into an antique trunk.

The Cuban tiled sunny kitchen with its high-end appliances and poolside chat table makes meal preparation a happy task. The plunge pool has seating for all and an infinity edge so guests can stay cool while gazing at the ocean.

Alluring as the home is, don't forget the best space of space designed by Mother Nature beach is a 15 second trot down the trail directly in front of the home!
Complimentary beach towels, bags & beach chairs are ready for your uninterrupted ocean fun. And because you are on vacation, Flor, the ever present but always discreet house manager, is available daily to help with breakfast preparation. She will keep you in fresh sheets and towels and maintain your home in pristine condition.

Included with this villa is membership to the private oceanfront Beach Club which is just 4 doors down. With 4 pools, a fitness center, bar and restaurant, it’s a nice alternative to the beach! When ready for adventure, Pura Vida Ride, a 3-minute walk down the beach, has the latest in water sporting for rent: paddle boards, kayaks, snorkeling well as bikes for the trails. Did you know that Las Catalinas trails have been voted some of the best in the world for off road biking? There are fabulous hiking trails, as well, with breathtaking vistas! If wandering further afield, let our premier concierge service (an amenity of this home) attend to your every need from reservations to excursions--they know everyone and can arrange dozens of fabulous experiences for your party.

Whether gazing at the ocean waves from every room or taking in the romance of the dancing reflections on the courtyard walls, you will be captivated by the beauty of this hidden gem nestled on the exotic black sand shores of Playa Danta.