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Entire home

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

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

Outdoor pool
Sun-loungers, beach towels
Terrace/patio
Property grounds
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Take advantage of a garden, a playground and laundry facilities at THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE. Treat yourself to a massage or other spa services. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathrooms232 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

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 amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Massage
  • Outdoor pool

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Limo/town car service
  • Car recommended
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Breakfast available for a fee
  • Chef service
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Printer

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Accessible parking space
  • In-room accessibility
  • No lift
  • Single level property
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (limited availability)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Meal delivery service
  • Safe

Location highlights

  • In a village
  • In the city centre
  • In the mountains
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Farming classes
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Annual offsets purchased for at least 10% of carbon footprint
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • At least 80% of food locally-sourced
  • Composting
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Farming classes
  • Garden
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Locally-owned and organised tours and activities
  • Unit size: 2,500 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

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
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

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

Property is also known as

THE GEM OF Atenas Tropical Paradise Retreat
A GEM IN Atenas! Tropical Paradise Awaiting YOU
UNIQUE IN ATENAS GORGEOUS HOME IN TROPICAL PARADISE

About the area

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 Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center. 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.
Visit our Mercedes travel guideOpens in a new window
View more Holiday homes in MercedesOpens in a new window
Map
Atenas, Alajuela

What's nearby

  • Palmares Church - 20 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Parque Viva - 25 min drive - 21.9 km
  • Terrazas Lindora Shopping Center - 36 min drive - 33.1 km
  • Multiplaza Mall Escazu - 38 min drive - 39.8 km
  • Poás Volcano National Park - 60 min drive - 34.5 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Bar y Restaurante El Mejor Clima - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Firenze Ristorante - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Mirador El Pueblo - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Balcón del Café - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Jalapeños - ‬10 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, Minas Del Aguacate and Aguacate Mines. Rock Bridge and Grecia Park are also within 12 miles (20 km).

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 100 out of 104 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 104 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 104 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 104 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 104 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Paul W.

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

Tranqilo

Amazing stay, truly the Gem of Atenas. This will be our favorite place that we have stayed in Costa Rica after dozens of rental properties while traveling in CR. Hope everyone gets to experience this most wonderful house!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adam D.

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

Perfect home in Atenas

We very much enjoyed our stay in the home. Everything was spotless and we had everything we needed for a little vacation in Atenas. The amenities at the house are top notch and the property is simply a slice of heaven. The pool was great and the home is only a short distance away from the central part of Atenas. If you are looking for a home to rent in Atenas, this is it!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

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

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

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

Peter S.

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

Nice Stay in Costa Rica - Atenas

We had a nice stay. The house is very nice and sits on a beautiful property. We had a couple issues come up, but they were taken care of well. Good location to take day trips to different parts of Costa Rica. We saw Toucans and Macaws fly by on the property which was cool. We recommend the place.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

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

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

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

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

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 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

Susan A.

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

A second fabulous stay!

This is a wonderful property. The location, Atenas, is truly a perfect Costa Rican destination on the central range near volcano Poas and a short distance to Playa Herradura where we went fishing in the Pacific Ocean. The property could not be better. The owner, property management, and the property caretakers are all good people. This is a place to relax and enjoy all that Costa Rica has to offer. I highly recommend it and I know I will be back soon
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2022

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

Jim H., Gig Harbor, WA

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

Atenas

Beautiful property. Everything went smooth. Piet picked us from the airport and arranged a rental car. Yvonne brought us delicious dinner- 4 casadas. Manuel and Meilen kept the grounds kept and house clean. They brought us huevos a few times. The house is great and well stocked. Only thing is you cant close the top windows with screens. They are great for air circulation, but it would be nice to close them for sounds at night. Pool is nice and clean. Overall, stay was great. Thanks and good luck!
Stayed 12 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dawn S.

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

All the conveniences of home

Tonia’s house is a home therefore offers more than your normal rental. Kitchen has everything you need including spices. We lived here for 6 weeks in 2023, very easy to do. Most rentals are difficult to live in long term. Manuel & Mylene are wonderful people who live on the property with their 2 daughters and make sure your stay is perfect. Piet & Yvonne are amazing as the property managers, helping us book excursions or helping us when something in the house goes wrong. The house is secluded on the 18 acres however it is in the Mercedes neighborhood with all the sounds you would expect: roosters, vehicles without mufflers, horses, barking dogs, cows, etc. You will love your time living here.
Stayed 18 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Peter B.

Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

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