Suite 204 is the best-kept secret of the beautiful Villas Casa Loma, nestled in the mountainside between Playas Flamingo and Potrero. Now that we’ve secured (booked) our stay for next year, we can spill the beans. What can we say to add to the list of detailed and highly accurate five-star reviews other than nothing is as reinvigorating as waking up to the sun rising over the mountain tops in this breath-taking suite, with its high redwood ceilings, full-length windows, surrounded on three sides by balconies, atop tropical dry forests, dramatic sunsets over the grand Pacific Ocean and night skies filled with layers upon layers of stars.
We picked oranges from a tree growing within reach of our balcony and conversed with the magpie jays till they got too saucy. We hiked through Igor’s many acres of tropical dry forests—did healthy climbs to the top of the mountain for an incredible ocean view. We spotted howler monkeys, white-tailed deer, butterflies, and geckos. On other days, we relaxed under the bougainvillea-covered pergola by the sparkling pool just below our suite, surrounded by lush and fragrant gardens, with a choice of shade or sun, for quiet times or socializing with the other guests.
We took day trips through the countryside. One was up the infamous Monkey Trail, but we chickened out and turned around (see the Monkey Trail Facebook page with daily conditions), discovered barrios, walked the many beaches, and swam in the ocean. Yet, nothing eclipsed our home at Villas Casa Loma.
Igor (the owner), Bruno, and their staff made us feel as welcome as family. Getting to know Igor gave us an even greater appreciation for the Villas and the area.
Diez Estrellas!