Entire home

2 Story Luxury House, Spectacular Views, Central to Costa Rica Sites, B&B Option

Photo gallery for 2 Story Luxury House, Spectacular Views, Central to Costa Rica Sites, B&B Option

Interior detail
Exterior
Terrace/patio
Living area
Living area

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6185.8 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

Map
San Ramon, Alajuela Province
  • San Ramon Municipal Market
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • San Ramon Nonato Church
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Parque Central
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Puntarenas (JAP-Chacarita)
    ‪65 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Futon

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

2 Story Luxury House, Spectacular Views, Central to Costa Rica Sites, B&B Option

PRIVATE WITH LUSH SURROUNDINGS. Hacienda Vivace is located on the outskirts of San Ramón in the quaint area of Magallanes, a mix of Tico and expat residents. Hacienda Vivace and this rental, Casita Vivace, sit at the end of a country lane on 5 private acres of lush gardens and semi-tropical landscape, rolling mountains and coffee fields, overlooking the Pacific Ocean's Bay of Nicoya. The Hacienda is a spectacular, newly completed contemporary Spanish main home with the stand-alone Casita Vivace rental at its side.

Casita Vivace is a separate 2-story, custom-designed house with 2000 square feet, plus front and rear patios and second story balcony, all with fabulous views. The impressive custom wood and iron work are throughout the ground floor master queen bedroom, loft area with family room plus queen bed and sofa bed, bath with both outdoor and indoor showers, gourmet kitchen, dining/living room, and laundry. The house is fully furnished and all utilities, high-speed 6G internet, and private parking are included.

STUNNING VIEWS AND WORKING COFFEE PLANTATION. The property has spectacular views all around. At 3700 feet and a constant temperature in the mid-70's, the Hacienda and Casita Vivace overlook the Pacific Ocean and the Bay of Nicoya with its many islands. Visitors watch the cruise ships enter the port of Puntarenas, and enjoy phenomenal sunsets and dazzling evening lights. The surrounding mountains display lush semi-tropical vegetation. The working coffee plantation is flocked with the dramatic white coffee flowers in May and the cherry red coffee berries in November through January. The Hacienda gardens are tenderly cared for by the owners and provide an ambiance of beauty and tranquility.

PERFECT DRIVING DISTANCE TO COSTA RICA SITES. The Hacienda is 45 minutes from the San Jose International Airport and central driving distance to the most memorable experiences of Costa Rica. Within 90 minutes are attractions such as Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfalls and Gardens, La Fortuna hot springs, Lake Arenal, Carrera National Rainforest, Sarchi, Puntarenas, Zip-Lining, Butterfly Farms, Animal Rescue Centers, Manual Antonio Biological Reserve, and much more. The nearest beach is just a 30 minute drive away and part of a national rainforest, where capuchin monkeys come down from the trees to join you for lunch. We can help you with arrangements to ensure you experience the best of Costa Rica.

QUAINT VILLAGE OF SAN RAMON. The Hacienda is 5 minutes by car from San Ramon, a 'muy tranquilo' provincial town of 20,000 that welcomes travelers with a graceful sense of pride and slow pace of life. Known as the City of Presidents and Poets, San Ramon has been home to four Presidents and many of the literary leaders of Costa Rica. The town itself offers it all -- from restaurants and cafes, to museums and art studios, a 3-cinema theater, supermarkets and shops, a major hospital and the University of Cost Rica.

A HEARTY BREAKFAST TO START YOUR DAY. Breakfast can be served at an additional cost, with fresh local fruit, homemade bread, granola and local coffee, followed by a main breakfast dish.

PRIVATE CHEF. If you are interested in experiencing local cuisine, you can take advantage of the Hacienda’s private chef. Whether you are looking for typical Tico fare or a gourmet dinner, the Hacienda’s experienced chef comes highly recommended. The Hacienda also offers cooking classes for Costa Rican and other cuisines.

Property manager

Nancy Sperry and Andy Robinson

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Notify owner if leaving overnight.

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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Santiago

Located in Santiago, this villa is in the city centre and by the sea. Turu Ba Ri Nature & Adventure Park and Caldera Port are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Juan Castro Blanco National Park and Las Cataratas de Los Chorros. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
San Ramon, Alajuela Province

What's nearby

  • San Ramon Municipal Market - 6 min drive - 5.9 km
  • San Ramon Nonato Church - 6 min drive - 6.0 km
  • San Ramon Museum - 6 min drive - 5.3 km
  • Parque Central - 7 min drive - 5.9 km
  • Balneario Las Musas - 14 min drive - 8.7 km

Getting around

  • San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) - 51 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪El Jardín - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Las Brisas - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Bar y Restaurante La Ostra - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Cafeteria Avellanas - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Bar Benz San Ramón - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does 2 Story Luxury House, Spectacular Views, Central to Costa Rica Sites, B&B Option have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is 2 Story Luxury House, Spectacular Views, Central to Costa Rica Sites, B&B Option pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at 2 Story Luxury House, Spectacular Views, Central to Costa Rica Sites, B&B Option?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 2 Story Luxury House, Spectacular Views, Central to Costa Rica Sites, B&B Option?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is 2 Story Luxury House, Spectacular Views, Central to Costa Rica Sites, B&B Option located?

Located in the heart of Santiago, this villa is within 6 miles (10 km) of San Ramon Municipal Market, Parque Central and San Ramon Nonato Church. Turu Ba Ri Nature & Adventure Park and Juan Castro Blanco National Park are also within 25 miles (40 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 27 out of 31 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 31 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 31 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.2/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Stan G.

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

Fabulous Casita, View, and Hosts

We stayed one month in the Casita, our first visit to Costa Rica. The Casita was truly a quality structure with beautiful architectural elements. The view to the Gulf was spectacular. Our hosts, great!
Stayed 28 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Love staying here

Andy and Nancy have lovely properties and are wonderful hosts! This was our 2nd time renting from them.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Purchasing trip

Very engaging and engaged owners who know the lay of the land and offer wel ome advice
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

David J.

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

Great rainforest getaway

Beautiful flora and fauna Vistas
Stayed 12 nights in Feb 2024

8/10 Good

Michael D.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Casita

Great location
Stayed 59 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brenda M.

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

Lovely casita -- rain or shine

We spent 2+ weeks in this lovely casita. It looks just like the photos. Everything was designed and built to a professional's standards. The attention to detail is amazing. Hard to believe this is a rental and not someone's dream home. The place is perfect for a couple – everything you need on the main floor. Just FYI, additional sleeping options (shared) in the loft mean coming downstairs for the bathroom. Location is great – 10-15 minutes drive from downtown San Ramon, where you can find grocery stores, restaurants, and more. Beautiful long-distance views to the coast come and go as the clouds roll in and out. You're surrounded by lush gardens. The kitchen is well equipped if you want to cook. Even includes a wide range of spices, not surprising since Andy is a chef. The owners, Andy and Nancy, are delightful. They are extremely responsive to anything you mention. They're also a wealth of information about the area. Loved our stay here and would happily return. HEADS UP: got an invoice on our last day for for Costa Rica taxes (not collected by vrbo) for our 15-night stay. Nice that they're being “legal” but still surprised since it was 13.5%. The other vrbo we stayed at included this tax in the nightly rate and we paid it in our reservation.
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2022

2/10 Terrible

Kenneth C.

Liked: Communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, listing accuracy

We Were Conned — DO NOT stay here

We spent one night in a bug infested, unkept place. It is a place that looks just like the photos but is not a place we would ever consider staying in, considering the following: Flying & crawling insects all over the inside. And I’m talking dozens of insects that only an entomologist would like. No WiFi - owner said it might have blown out nights ago in a storm. Kitchen — no hot water. Drain not working in the inside shower /tub. The bugs in there drown & were swirling around - gross. Screens on windows have major gaps that let in bugs when bedroom & other windows are left open. No screen on front door. And since there’s no air conditioning, the windows should be open. We left them shut cause there were already enough bugs in there. Pulled back the sheets and my wife yelled “spider”! Skeleton key lock on sliding glass door entry! It’s a high theft area so I would expect better than that. And no, we did not ask for nor were we offered a discount for the non functional items. We stayed one night although we paid for six nights & moved ourselves to the Marriott in San Jose, about 40 minutes away. Inconvenient but the Marriott is safe, clean and has a/c, hot water and WiFi. If I could sue the owners I would.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

mary g.

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

Our month at Casita Vivace

The casita is extremely comfortable, well appointed and very clean. The view from the comfy swinging chairs on the porch is stunning - gorgeous sunsets every night. We loved the location in San Ramon - away from heavily populated tourist areas yet close enough to Montevere, Arenal and La Fortuna for day trips. So many wonderful authentic cultural day trips to explore in San Ramon. Good resturaunts and easy access to grocery and produce shopping. And one of the best features of the property are the hosts - Nancy and Andy. Lovely people and always available to help if needed. And there were multiple times they helped us out . Highly recommend this property.
Stayed 29 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shelley Jantein J.

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

Wonderful

Was such a cute place the hosts were very helpful and very accommodating to our needs. We will be staying there again if in the area again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

kim s.

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

Beautiful view!

The views from the upstairs balcony and down stairs were amazing! House was cozy and had what we needed. Andy and Nancy were gracious and even invited us to a lunch with homemade pizza on Christmas. Surrounding neighborhood was pretty with kind neighbors that we enjoyed making friends with. We will definitely stay there again when we visit our daughter.
Stayed 13 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Marsene B.

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

Best VRBO ever!

My husband son and I stayed at Andy and Nancy's Casita Vivace and had a wonderful and relaxing time! They were very warm hosts. The house was well appointed and had everything that we needed. I can say it was by far one of the best vrbo stays that we have had. I highly recommend!
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jim M., Quincy, Ma.

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

Fantastic stay in Costa Rica!

The property is excellent for a relaxing stay. The great location and welcoming responsive hosts made it easy to get around. Beautiful views all around with amazing sunsets! We had a great time.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

chantal m.

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

Fantastique

Très bel endroit . Très propre et bien équipé. Propriétaires aimables qui nous ont invité à prendre un jour dans leur superbe villa. A recommander sans faute. La température est plus fraîche a San Ramon que sur le bord de la mer et on est a environ 1 heure de Puntarenas. Nous avons adoré notre séjour dans cette maison.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Terry V.

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

Excellent Location, Climate was Pleasant in January

Property was in an excellent location, close to restaurants, bars and downtown San Ramon. The climate was pleasant, really no need for air conditioning in January. There was a constant breeze blowing through the casita, we were thankful for that since there are no air conditioning units in the casita.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Philip N., Joplin Missouri USA

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

Relax and Enjoy!

The property and people were great! The views every morning and evening were just beautiful. We were looking for a relaxing week and it was exactly what we found there. The location is close to excellent grocery stores and restaurants, so you could eat in or dine out! We will visit again!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Guy B.

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

Beautiful location

Gorgeous mountain location with beautifully done landscaping that attracts lots of butterflies and hummingbirds. If you love a gorgeous view this is the place to go. We even had a visit from a group of White Faced Capuchin including a mommy with tiny baby on her back. Due to our very late arrival we decided to have the owner make us a delicious breakfast and we were not disappointed.
Stayed 14 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Bobbi W.

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

Beautiful place, wonderful people

Nancy and Andy were terrific hosts! They started as landlords and quickly became friends! The casita is amazing and cozy and stocked with everything you need to make life simple. Don’t miss time in the swings on the porch!
Stayed 182 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Greg M.

Sleeping In The Clouds

Casita Vivace is wonderful. Spacious rooms, incredible view of the valley below all the way to Punta Arenas - which is an hour's drive away. Nancy and Andy are caring and attentive hosts. If you are staying in the San Ramon area, you must choose this property! Arrive during daylight, though.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Dawn P.

Pristine accommodations with a breathtaking view!

Enjoy this spacious and comfortable Casita while you explore the Costa Rican terrain. You will be warmly welcomed by your hosts Nancy and Andy, who accommodated our every need. Have coffee while taking in the view from the hanging porch chairs, greet the locals while you stroll the neighborhood, relax and read a book while lounging on the second floor sectional, and enjoy an outdoor shower at the end of the day. We had such a great time, we didn't want to leave!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Kathy R.

Best house in six weeks!

This house was extremely clean with the amenities North Americans are used to. Plenty of hot water with a great outdoor shower. Andy and Nancy are gracious hosts who helped us explore the San Ramon area. Do not miss Andy’s cooking. We are already planning our next trip. You will not regret renting this house.
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Paula P.

Lovely home with every thing we needed

The property was clean and everything was in good working order. The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking meals. The home is very practical with just enough space for a family of 4-6. The owners are very welcoming and accommodating. Most of the attractions we did was about a 45 minute drive away with one being 2 hours away. The views are amazing!
Stayed 10 nights in May 2018

10/10 Excellent

MaryLou H.

Amazing vacation

Andy and Nancy are fantastic hosts - they provided us with lots of information and guidance - where to go, what to do!! Sunset drinks/ party invite was sooooo nice - ceviche, watermelon slushies and red wine and of course the unbelievable sunset. The casita is fully equipped with everything for a perfect vacation - even an outdoor shower and a bathtub does it get any better than that? Nancy and Andy have thought of everything. We will be back!
Stayed 27 nights in Apr 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Great stay

The casita was wonderful, clean and well-appointed. Upscale appliances, comfy furniture, and the second story loft was a great place to hang out. The outdoor shower was Wonderful! Even with our drop-in gecko. LOL We were so pleased to be invited to a sunset cocktail party at the big house where we met other ex-pats, locals and enjoyed good conversation and GREAT ceviche (thanks, Andy!) Andy and Nancy offered a wealth of information and sightseeing ideas and were genuine and excellent hosts. Their three little dogs were delightful as well. We experienced no issues with our internet connection; a problem reported in the past but that has been fully corrected with strong, fast service. Folks should be aware that there is not a television set in the casita - this was not an issue for us, given the beautiful scenery, multitude of birds and beautiful sunsets. We highly recommend this wonderful property.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Dietmar W.

Perfect location with a birds eye view included

The hosts Anday and Nancy are very attentiv and offer a nice holiday home for couples and families near San Ramon. Perfect location to relax aside of the daily hustle and bustle or to write a book...:-)
Stayed 27 nights in Nov 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

jesika K.

Great

It is a beautiful place!!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2017

About the host

Hosted by Nancy Sperry and Andy Robinson

Host profile image
Andy and Nancy are a retired married couple from Santa Cruz, California. Andy is a former cabinet designer and Nancy a former Silicon Valley marketing executive. We designed and built the spectacular 5,000 square foot, contemporary Spanish Hacienda Vivace and 1800 square foot Casita over the past 3 years. Our architect fondly refers to it as "Andy and Nancy's art project".

We are active members of the community having established "Friends of Hacienda Vivace." We do community outreach projects and monthly fundraising events for organizations such as San Ramon scouts/girl guides, local orphanage, children's cancer foundation, local music school instrument donation program, and more. We also host events such as Oktoberfest, Christmas Madrigal, and St. Patrick's Day.

Why they chose this property

After looking at Bali, Thailand, Philippines, Mexico and Panama, we felt that Costa Rica had so much more to offer us. The country is incredibly beautiful, travel is easy, and the people are wonderful. There are many micro climates to suit individual needs and an abundance of things to do. In 1949 the country abolished their army and invested all their money into education and health care and, today, have a well educated, healthy and happy population. Recent surveys show that Costa Ricans are one of the happiest people in the world. Costa Rica has a very low crime rate compared to other countries in Central and South America. They also have a longer life expectancy because of the lifestyle they live - Pura Vida!

The Pacific Highlands where we live is the heartland of Costa Rica with truly awe-inspiring coastal and mountain views, stunning sunsets, year-around weather in the seventies, historic culture, and wonderfully warm people. And San Ramón is the ideal central location for us to easily go to the airport, beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and hot springs as well as cultural attractions like San Jose's Little Theater Group and the infamous Teatro Nacional.

What makes this property unique

Hacienda Vivace will give you the chance to experience the real Costa Rica and ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle, while enjoying the modern luxuries of a beautiful North American style home. We're located at the end of a private country lane on a working plantation that overlooks the Bay of Nicoya. You can bask in the early morning sunshine with your coffee on the back patio, contently sit and enjoy the view in the hanging basket chairs on the front porch, take a swim in the pool in the afternoon, and enjoy evening cocktails and sunset on the upper balcony.

Pick up fresh fruit and vegetables at the weekly outdoor market in historic San Ramon just 5 minutes away, drive to one of the local waterfalls and splash in the pools, visit an orchid garden or sugar cane factory, or launch a day of site seeing to volcanoes, the beaches, zoo, animal rescue center, one of many hot springs, canopy tour, or an evening at Teatro Nacional for symphony or ballet.

Another unique benefit to staying at Hacienda Vivace is the food! We serve a hearty breakfast upon request, and If you are interested in experiencing local cuisine without leaving your patio, you can take advantage of the Hacienda’s private chef. Whether you are looking for typical Tico fare or a gourmet dinner, the Hacienda’s experienced chef comes highly recommended.


Languages:

English, Spanish