Casa Libre

Casa Libre is perched atop a ridge overlooking the Pacific, among the hills and tropical forests that cascade to the sea. Modern Spanish colonial in style, it stands securely gated at the end of a short, rugged, semi-private road, on ten landscaped acres surrounded by jungle and dry forest: not remote, only secluded, with panoramic views of the ocean and the hills.

The exterior is the compelling part: an expansive veranda, a rooftop observatory pavilion, and an infinity pool with its adjoining rancho, bar and grill, in gardens that draw butterflies and moths of all sorts. Indoors there are ceiling fans in every room, air conditioning, king-size beds, a fully equipped kitchen with teak cabinets and granite counters, and a handcrafted dining table and chairs of local Guanacaste wood.

Mornings begin with howler monkeys and tropical birdsong, and constant sea breezes keep the veranda and pool comfortable. The house sits between two nature preserves, above Playa Sámara and Playa Carrillo. Sámara, a lively village of surfing, snorkeling and beachfront restaurants, is about a ten-minute drive away, and palm-lined Playa Carrillo about fifteen. The last stretch is a steep, rocky dirt road, so you will need a 4x4 (essential in the rainy season); walking to town or the beach isn't practical, especially at night.