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THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE

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A slice of Paradise.  Secluded pool area just of rear porch.
Tropical pool area
Pool
Tranquility and fun.
Unwind by the pool side! Puea Vida!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6232.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Breakfast available

Explore the area

Map
Atenas, Alajuela
  • Palmares Church
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Parque Viva
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Multiplaza Mall Escazu
    ‪32 min drive‬
  • San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.)
    ‪43 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Master Suite

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE

Quinta Colina Paula sets itself apart from any other rental property in Atenas. This well maintained and gorgeous 20 acre estate is located in an excellent residential area named Barrio Mercedes. It is only a 25 minute drive away from the San Jose airport (SJO) and 4 minutes from the center of quaint Atenas with all the amenities and services. It is conveniently located near many tourist attractions. Yet you are welcomed to a grand tropical paradise. Be ready to be amazed as soon as you arrive to the gate of this estate. You will enter past tropical plants and trees, past the caretakers Meylin and Manuel's house, lovingly painted by the talented artist Eighi, down to the first river with protected native trees and up to the house. Not just any house. A home which has been lovingly and meticulously prepared for your arrival. This home was built in the typical and authentic Costa Rican style with native woods. It offers 3 wrap around porches with very different views: the mountain and volcano range, the tropical garden and the secluded, enchanting pool area. Ample comfortable seating and hammocks will make your choice as to where to hang out and take in these breathtaking views very difficult. No effort nor expense was spared to create a home away from home. With an open living plan, well stocked kitchen, beautifully appointed bedrooms and bathrooms, TV area and dining spaces, you will be able to kick back and enjoy immediately.
We provide fresh organic eggs and fruit from the finca. For the nature lovers, you can take your daily walks up and down the property where you will spot a variety of native trees and rare tropical fruit trees, along with any kind of tropical plant you can imagine. Manuel can walk you down and into the river at the rear Bird lovers alert: at least 35 different species have been spotted here. Meylin will welcome you to the property and she is always available for any questions you may have.
For the yoga lovers, we added a yoga deck facing the volcano range.
We have several drivers available who can take you into town or on day trips. Should you need a well deserved massage or desire the luxury of a private chef, that too we can arrange.
We are an all organic property which respects all of the beauty Costa Rica has to offer. If you are planning a destination vacation or looking for a lovely landing pad during your travels, we assure you, you will not be disappointed. And if you are wondering why to choose Atenas as your destination, the answer is simple: Atenas is centrally located yet away from the busy touristy areas. Atenas offers absolutely anything one could need on a vacation. It is town
Come and visit Paradise at Quinta Colina where you can live the Pura Vida.







Property manager

TONIA
Premier Host

Languages

Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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 fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Mercedes

Located in Mercedes, this holiday home is in the city centre and on a river. Minas Del Aguacate and Turu Ba Ri Nature & Adventure Park are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Botanical Orchid Garden La Garita and Zoo Ave. Else Kientzler Botanical Garden and Balneario Las Musas are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Atenas, Alajuela

What's nearby

  • Palmares Church - 22 min drive - 12.2 km
  • Parque Viva - 25 min drive - 20.7 km
  • Multiplaza Mall Escazu - 32 min drive - 32.6 km
  • City Mall - 33 min drive - 25.5 km
  • Poás Volcano National Park - 59 min drive - 34.4 km

Getting around

  • San Antonio de Belen Station - 34 min drive
  • San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Parrillada Androvetto - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante y Chicharronera El Trapiche - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Hermanos Castillo - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪La Trilla de Vega - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Pizzeria La Finca - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is within 9 miles (15 km) of Palmares Church, Aguacate Mines and Minas Del Aguacate. Rock Bridge and Grecia Park are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 99 out of 103 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 103 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 103 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 103 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 103 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tracey D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeded All Expectations

We had the good fortune to book 4 nights at this extraordinary property and our only regret is we didn’t stay longer! From communication prior to our arrival to check out process, all was wonderful! The property itself is gorgeous with stunning views, the house has everything one could want or need and then some and the hostess, Tonia, is a gem of a human! Special mention and thanks to Meylin and family who live onsite!! We couldn’t have asked for more and will definitely be back!!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Isabelle L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect place to relax

The property is even more beautiful than the pictures. Very organised and welcoming, everyone made our first trip to Costa Rica a memorable one. Truelly a gem.
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Keven R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay

We loved this house. It is beautiful inside and out. The pics and descriptions are accurate. This is the perfect place to chill, decompress or enjoy with your family.The house has everything you need for a comfortable stay. We loved the blender for making smoothies from the fruit that is grown on the property or in the general area.The owners are lovely people who are quick to communicate and provide information. The caretakers, Meylin and Manuel, live a short distance away. They are warm and helpful.Sitting by the pool we were able to see many different types of birds and butterflies. We also watched a monkey eating the bananas from the trees.We hope we can return on the future.
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

10 Star Ratings for this Property!

My husband and I stayed at Quinta Colina for 2 weeks in January and early February 2025. The house and property was perfect. We were well taken care of spoiled!) by the property managers- Meylin and Manuel-(who were on site). The communication with the property owner-Tonia- was fantastic. She was in communication with us throughout our stay even though she was 13 hours away! We would highly recommend this rental and if we return to Costa Rica, we will stay there again, for sure! We cannot say enough good things about this property and its host, Tonia.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Shhh!

Please, don't tell anyone about this place. So quiet and peaceful, our family enjoyed the perfect Costa Rican experience. Property managers answered all our needs and the owner was very nice! We were truly spoiled during our stay with fresh eggs each day! We would be more than happy to return to this place....forever!
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

JoanneDerek C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Gem of Atenas is an absolute GEM!

What a lovely, magical place this is!We were 6 adults, ranging 19 - 57 and we all loved staying here. There was plenty of space for everyone to spread out and then gather together. The three sided wrap around porch is amazing, and being able to eat dinner outside no matter the weather a huge plus. The VRBO was exceptionally clean and very well equipped, I think there were more pots, pans and dishes than in our own house! We had fresh eggs upon our arrival, and more appeared during our stay, as well as mandarinas, limes and bananas from the fruit trees.12 thumbs up for this one, thanks for making our stay in Atenas so fantastic!
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

David D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful surroundings

The home is beautiful, lovely furnished and the greenery surrounding us was amazing. The home is well equipped especially the kitchen and grill for outside entertaining. Sadly we did not use the inviting pool as it rained every day(end of the rainy season) should our travels take us back to Costa Rica, we would stay there again
Stayed 9 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tracy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best rental property yet

This place is such an incredible spot. The place was amazing, tranquil, beautiful. It had so many small details that make a stay even better, fully stocked with every kitchen appliance and utensil, laundry detergent, clothes pins, bath salts and just so many little touches that made our stay even better. Tonia and Mark are so helpful and amazing hosts .
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Phillip G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Vacation Ever!!

Our stay at Colina Paula in Barrio Mercedes was absolutely spectacular! The house was incredibly clean and fully stocked with pots, pans, cups and utensils. Manual and Meylin (caretakers who live on the font property) were very welcoming and provided us with fresh eggs, limes, and bananas. The property itself sits on 20 acres of lush rainforest plants and is absolutely stunning! The views from the house were impeccable and we could spot toucans from the rocking chair on the porch. The pool was in pristine condition and very well maintained. Manual and Meylin do a phenomenal job taking care of the property. We had an incredible stay and would highly recommend this place to any and all travelers looking to stay in a non-touristy but safe part of town.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Loendry C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice house!

Nice amenities! Perfectly away but still close enough to everything. Both Manuel and his wife, who live in property are amazing. The highlight for me was the opportunity to have fresh eggs from the property chickens, truly amazing! Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of our favorite vacations!

This was our second time staying at Quinta Colina Paula and we cannot say enough good things about this property and its host, Tonia. We felt right at home as soon as we arrived and were greeted by Meylin. She and her family live in the casita at the front of the property and were always kind and welcoming. Tonia also did a great job recommending drivers for short trips to town or day long excursions. We only hope it’s not another 8 years before we can return!
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debra R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful Getaway

Very lovely home in a beautiful part of Atenas. We loved it.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jill H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfecto

The property was great, and the property managers were even better!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mark H., Cadillac, Michigan

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another tough day relaxing by the pool and exploring the property.

This was a repeat visit and it was even better than the first time. The property is wonderful, the house beautiful and the privacy exceptional. The kitchen has everything you will need. The grocery store is not far away. Only challenge is the driveway, typical Costa Rica steep. Love this place
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

James G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another 5-Star Vacation

This was our second time at the finca and, again, we had a wonderful time. The house is airy, including the addition of screens for the large entry doors on both sides. Pool is wonderful. Beds and baths are clean and spacious. The house is well off the street yet still within a few minutes of Atenas. Enjoyed meeting the owners. Can't wait to return.
Stayed 23 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous setting

The house is even lovelier in person! Tall ceilings, totally updated, and a fully-equipped kitchen. We had coffee every morning on the porch, looking out across the landscape.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic property

This was our third stay at this amazing property and each time we are more impressed. We have stayed at a lot of rental properties in Costa Rica over the years and this one is in the top 2. All the amenities,privacy, beautiful landscaping, excellent property managers and owner, it’s all here! We want to come back again... and again
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mary Jane R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pura Vida Perfect!

The long, winding driveway from the entrance at a main road takes you a world away from the busy town of Atenas. Beautifully landscaped and very private, Colina Paula is the best VRBO experience we’ve ever had. The home is extremely well provisioned, from kitchen appliances and laundry to plentiful, thick bath towels, beach towels, and comfy beds. Three porches, hammocks, and a pool offer multiple places to relax. We were awakened by tropical birdsong each morning and fell asleep to breezes rustling through the lush foliage at night.
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

James G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeded Expectations

Beautiful home, very well-appointed, with incredible mountain breezes and plenty of privacy. Fully-equipped kitchen, open layout and porches on three sides provided the perfect spot for family and friends. “Gem of Atenas” is a very appropriate moniker.
Stayed 28 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maxine W., Lahmansville, WV USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful private home

We have rented homes in Costa Rica many times and this was definitely one of our favorites. We hope to return here sometime if it’s available when we need it. We loved the privacy, the landscaping, the outdoor seating and many other things. It’s a very beautiful place. Thanks for sharing it!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Leah B.

Excellent rental - one of our favorite stays ever

We loved our stay at Quinta Collina Paula. It is a beautiful and airy home with extensive tropical gardens. Everything about the home is inviting and comfortable. We had all that we needed and more. The weather in August was perfect, the little town of Atenas is charming with several good restaurants and it is easy to get around the area. Property managers Piet and Yvonne were also wonderful and so helpful. We hope to visit again and we thank you!

10/10 Excellent

marie-france g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

a perfect villa

A magnificent villa offering a splendid view of the mountains. an intimate garden surrounded by palm trees where it is good to swim and sunbathe. This is our second visit and enjoyed it even more Piet served us well with the first grocery which was already at the villa when we arrived and transport us to the airport. We enjoyed the gardener, his wife and the family very much. Warm, endearing, discreet and very helpful people. It was a perfect stay with lots of sunshine!
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael L., Georgia usa

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Visit from 9-28

Awesome property clean and comfortable. The view is amazing you can see a long way in any direction. Piet and Yvvon where wonderful hosts they know there way around and have lots of good information for you about everything. My wife and I had a wonderful experience; this was our first visit and won’t be the last. If your thinking about visiting here you will love this safe clean property. Pura Vita
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Gloria W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Week

The place looked exactly like it did in the pictures. It was a wonderful week away and Piet was always quick to respond during the stay. The airport pick up and drop off was nice to make arriving and leaving the finca smooth. Piet and Yvonne were very helpful in planning and booking different activities for us to do each day and providing meals to be delivered to the house if we wanted. Overall it was a wonderful finca with beautiful views everywhere.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Orlando B., Pompton plains New Jersey

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A place to relax

My family and I we just spent 17 days in Costa Rica in this wonderful property when every morning by around 5:30 in the morning you can hear the birds you can hear roosters So that means time to get up do some exercises drink some Costa Rican coffee and start your day exploring Costa Rica Also I have to thanks Emilio property keeper for all his help
Stayed 16 nights in Jan 2020

About the host

Hosted by TONIA

Host profile image
My name is Tonia. I am Belgian and reside mostly in the US and Europe but this is my paradise. I ended up in Costa Rica 17 years ago by chance, fell in love with this beautiful country and its kind people. I soon enough returned to find an create my own piece/peace of heaven. Together now with my husband Mark (who has a passion for gardening and exotic fruits), we strive to create beauty. We are happy to share the wealth and welcome you to Quinta Colina Paula.

Why they chose this property

Looking for a Costa Rican paradise took time, a lot of time. I soon enough realized I wanted to live in the mountains as the temperature is more moderate and cool at night. Searching for months, I came to the conclusion I did not want to just buy a house and be done. After months of searching my then young son convinced me to buy this land, in a lovely residential area, 5 minutes driving from town but full of potential because of its natural abundance. Creating Quinta Colina Paula became a total labor of love, full of adventure but also challenges. It seems to be a never ending journey for which I am so grateful.

What makes this property unique

The unique benefits of his place have been described already above. But to sum it up, I would say that staying at Quinta Colina Paula is a joy because everything just works. The exquisite house and pool, set in the most beautiful nature, with the sounds of the rivers and birdsong at only 5 min from town, is a rare find.

Languages:

English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests