Dominical
Villa, 3 Bedrooms + Convertible Bed(s), 2.5+ Baths (Sleeps 6-7)
From $250 p/n, $1,600 p/w
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Guest: Justin-Maya
(Brookdale, CA/USA)
Date of Stay: 12/10/11
Review Submitted: 02/18/12
The setting for The Edge is incredible, but that's where it ends. The "luxury villa" is anything but that. It is in dreadful need of renovation. When we arrived, the house was sweltering. The host said the a/c was just in the bedrooms, which was not as advertised at the time. She said to sleep in the tiny guest room until the other a/c unit was fixed. This wouldn't have been so bad but the room was filled with mildew. We looked to cool down with an ice drink, only to find that the icemaker and the refrigerator didn’t work. As we did not feel safe with a stranger in the house, we were stuck while we waited for the a/c repair man who finally came after 3 days! We also did not feel safe as we could not lock the house due to the numerous un-lockable entrances and lack of alarm system. Dealing with the heat, mildew, and insects caused my husband to become very ill. So much so, we had to take him to the hospital. Being situated in the jungle is a great selling point, but the jungle should and can very easily remain outside where it belongs. The house is not screened in and has openings for insects, rodents, and larger wildlife alike, including monkeys. This forced us to wear bug spray in the house, yet we still got bit! The geckos leave their droppings all over the house. One night, we awoke to bats flying directly over our heads who just crashed in through a broken window. This was a very horrifying experience. The other amenities advertised had issues as well. We had no wireless internet as promised. The TV is situated in a corner that has no curtains and only has value at night as it is impossible to see it otherwise. The frequent power outages are causing the TV tube is go out. Furthermore, the master bath shower sprayed everywhere as the pipes LOUDLY KNOCKED. Lastly, the image of the shaded tree deck overlooking the water has been cut down. It was the only shade provided out there, and thusly, without it, makes it too uncomfortable to be there in the day time. Ultimately, the setting of the Edge is gorgeous, but the house is so rundown that it makes enjoying the view near impossible. The description should be changed to represent reality. The owners are attorneys and should know better. Your dream vacation should not be a nightmare, bats included! Update: The owners agreed to a refund, but true to form, have yet to live up to their word. We are waiting for a resolution from HomeAway.
Owner response:We always regret getting tough reviews as our goal is always to ensure a great guest experience. You can see from past reviews that our reviews are generally very positive. Most guests understand that this is not a hotel in Naples but rather a private home nestled in a tropical rain forest overlooking the ocean. Our listings are clear in that A/C is only in the bedrooms, not the common room. Yes, it is hot this close to the equator, so we don't recommend southern Costa Rica for those who are not heat tolerant. We have never had any crime at the Edge, especially with our caretakers living on the property just 100' feet from the main villa. Wildlife in a rain forest is abundant to say the least -- it's part of the experience but clearly lost on some guests. Any broken windows or screens are promptly repaired. When the large glass sliding doors are left open to enjoy ocean breezes in the common rooms, Geckos, about the size of your pinky, do hang out in the house like many other tropical resorts. They are harmless and guests even given them names. We have invested $150,000 in this property since 2007, including a ton in the past 12 months, including: new power lines, new water lines, improved internet, 14 new low-energy lighting fixtures, a new TV, painting, and much more. We will continue to make improvements throughout 2012. We appreciate the feedback and will continue to work hard to make the Edge a positive and memorable experience for our guests.
Recommended for:
Guest: carolina
Date of Stay: 10/29/11
Review Submitted: 12/09/11
This house really was a home away from home, so BEAUTIFUL!! Our hosts, Karen and Doug, were the best! Definitely recommend this home to anyone staying in the Dominical area.
Owner response:Thank you so much! Yes, Karen and Doug do make the entire experience more wonderfull. Don't forget Karen is also a great chef, just let us know ahead of time if you would like to book her services!
Recommended for:
Guest: Vicki V.
Date of Stay: 06/19/11
Review Submitted: 08/01/11
The Edge is beautiful! We spent a little under a week at The Edge this past June and it was amazing. The view is spectacular, the amenities perfect there's just not enough great things to say. Whether you're looking to stay at the house the entire time or venture out into town or down the road to the hotel for a drink it's all within a reasonable distance. Karen and Doug were great if we needed anything or had any questions about anything they were always there. Karen also swung by to check on us one night during a crazy rain storm when the power dropped for a bit, very thoughtful. I can't say enough good things about the property from the booking process to "checking" at the house everything went incredibly smoothly. You'll love The Edge!!
Owner response:Thank you so much. We are honored to have Karen & Doug as our Hosts, they do nothing but enhance "The Edge"! The view speaks for itself, it really is unbeatable, worldwide, no photo will ever do it justice. See if you can get into "The Edge", by booking ahead!
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Adam
(Nashville, TN)
Date of Stay: 05/30/11
Review Submitted: 06/09/11
The Edge lives up to it's billing. The living room features huge sliding doors that open to amazing views and ocean breezes. A troop of white-faced monkeys hang out in the trees next to the house. The house itself is nice, but the star of the show is by far the location. Dominical is a nice little beach town that features a surprisingly good pizza place. It's a great way to escape some of the growth that has overtaken the area closer to Manuel Antonio. Doug and Karen (the permanent house-sitters) are very nice and knowledgable about the area. They even made us freshly-squeezed passion-fruit martinis one evening. Overall, great place. Only knock (and it's a minor complaint) is that the house itself is slightly dated. That said, we'd definitely go back.
Owner response:Well, this is a perfectly honest review, I could not have said it better myself. Thank you! It is really all about the location and the view, no photos can do it justice. Dominical is a world away from Manuel Antonio action, yet just 35 min by car now that the road is complete. At "The Edge" the real jungle of Costa Rica and it's natural wildlife, practically private beaches and the never ending surf still exists. The Southern Zone is the only place to go if you want to say you have been to Costa Rica!
Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Guest: Nod
(Canada)
Date of Stay: 03/16/11
Review Submitted: 03/24/11
My family and I arrived at The Edge mid-March to one of the most spectacular views I have seen in Costa Rica. This was our 5th trip here and we have travelled extensively throughout the country so to be so impressed after all the sights we have seen is no small achievement. We were met by John and Amanda who were gracious and friendly hosts. The property is beautifully maintained and the privacy is second to none. The layout of the main house is an open invitation to put your feet up and relax in the comfort and beauty that surrounds you. The beds were comfortable and the bedrooms air conditioned. The main living area has tall sliding glass doors that allowed the entire area to be open to 180 degree views that take your breath away. You will not be dissappointed with an extended stay in spite of a number of comments made about the wildlife and the "mess" created. Hey, it's Costa Rica, that's part of the charm. Can promise that our family will be returning to this little piece of heaven on earth very soon.
Owner response:Thank you so much, we are glad you enjoyed your stay and we certainly hope you do return. You are experienced traveler's in Costa Rica and you are right, when immersed in wildlife and jungle as you are at "The Edge" things can be a bit messy! At "The Edge" you will be living with geckos, monkeys, green parrot flocks, humming birds, morpho butterflies and more. However, if you want to come to Costa Rica for the real thing, this is the place for you! Amanda & John
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Mikey9
(Halifax, Nova Scotia)
Date of Stay: 02/06/11
Review Submitted: 03/01/11
We stayed here 2nd week of Feb/11 and had a great stay. There were 6 of us staying here, 4 in the main villa and 2 in the casita. Our first comments are that the pictures do not do any justice whatsoever. As we first walked in to "The Edge" on a sunny Sunday afternoon our jaws dropped. The scenery was outstanding to say the least. From the bird watching platform you could actually look down at the pelicans flying by (you're about 150 ft above sea level) and watch the many monkeys on the trees below the villa. Nearby restaurants and soda's including the Cuna Del Angel are incredible. Check out the Jolly Roger across the road and 2km up the hill, great burgers, thin crust pizza and wings for sure. Place was clean on arrival. DO NOT leave anything in cupboards or on counter tops if you leave in the evening, critters will be in to them for sure, ahhh - nature! John and Amanda are very knowledgable and helpful with any requests. Best ziplining is south of Dominical in Osa. Beds were comfortable, particularly in main villa. While we had read about road problems from Quepos south we had no issues. Travel time from San Jose to "The Edge" is ballpark 3 hours (watch your speed as cops still want your cash for speeding). I hope "The Edge" will be available in the years to come as we definitely will be back. John and Amanda are amazing hosts.....
Owner response:Well than you so much! It sounds like we need better photos! We strive to please and we will put this high on our list of "things to do". However, I'm not sure if there will ever be a photo that touches or captures the feeling of being at or ON "The Edge", as you literally are while here. The jungle is not for everyone, but we are glad it was for you, and we do hope you return! Amanda & John
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway.
Guest: Tim
(Alberta Canada)
Date of Stay: 01/21/11
Review Submitted: 03/03/11
No doubt The Edge has a great view, but the house itself needs some major cleaning thru out the entire house and maintenance work in the bathrooms. If you like permanent resident gecko's depositing their waste on the furniture and countertops all the time, mice in the house, main bathroom shower head leaks, dirty tub, toilet runs, windows need replacing, second bathroom shower leaks, screens all need replacing, upholstery is filthy, same with the furniture ... need I say more. The kitchen pots and pans need replacing. The hosts are nice people and very helpful with local knowledge. The view may be five star ... but the house is one star.
Owner response:"The Edge" is a magnificant 12 acre estate, and regarded as one of the primer properties in the south of Costa Rica. Dominical is not for everyone, we know that and we like it that way. Some people who visit are like "fish out of water" when experiencing life at "The Edge", which is what most guests actually come here for, Mother Nature and the the most biologically intense place on the planet. The property is managed weekly by a professional cleaning crew, pool maintenence company and gardener. It is also inspected personally by the owners prior to any guests arrival. When you stay at "The Edge" you will be imersed in your own private oceanfront wildlife reserve, complete with tribes of whitefaced and howler monkeys, toucans, morpho butterflies, humming birds, dolphin pods, sloths, and yes geckos! The geckos (yes) leave thier mark in the evening hours! This is why we recommend additional cleanings to maintain the property in the same condition as each new guest arrives. Some people when visiting Costa Rica would be happier staying at resort properties behind closed gates where there is no jungle or wildlife at thier fingertips, so they can stay safe from the reality of this beautifully wild land. "The Edge" is not the Four Seasons, but we can arrange to have your drinks served poolside and provide a trained culinary expert to satisfy whatever requests you may have. We have the pleasure of serving many repeat customers from all walks of life and strrive to make everyone's vacation as good as it gets, an ocean front experience at "The Edge"! Sincerely Amanda & John
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Guest: Jazzie
(Scottsdale, Arizona)
Date of Stay: 12/10/10
Review Submitted: 12/10/10
I am a former radio talk show host, whose show aired out of Phoenix for years and streamed worldwide. My show was about "True Love".... the most noble quest there is. The moment I saw "The Edge" I knew that it was one of God's most exquisite and romantic secrets of this Universe. What could possibly be more alluring than this beautifully magical villa nestled in a 12 acre jungle estate where the rainforest 'kisses' the ocean and the melodic sounds of the surf mixed with the exotic nights sounds of nature's most precious creatures lull you to sleep as if in a fairy tale. The fact that The Edge is located in Dominical is a huge bonus because you are so close to some of the most beautiful and exotic beaches in the world, as well as close to where all the very special activities take place, such as Kayaking, Zip-lining, Surfing, Whitewater Rafting, Riding horseback to the Waterfalls, Snorkeling and Scuba Diving, Exotic National Parks and Zoos, Hiking and too many more to mention. This is where it all happens! And all in the most ecological and bio-diverse natural settings one could ever possibly imagine. It is simply magical! There are no other words to describe the beauty that surrounds The Edge and Dominical! I cannot thank Amanda enough for all of her wonderful patience and communication with me in providing the necessary information to arrange a "True Love" vacation at The Edge .... of Paradise! "And in the end..... the love you take.... is equal to the love you make." ~ John Lennon With love and gratitude, Jazziette
Owner response:Thank you so much! You have captured the essence of "The Edge" and it's surroundings even better than I could on our website!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Dawn and Jay
(Alamo, California USA)
Date of Stay: 09/07/10
Review Submitted: 09/28/10
There’s only one word to describe "The Edge"----dramatic! My husband and I, our "kids" and their "significant others” arrived late at night after an action--packed drive from Monteverde involving an abandoned rental car with a failed transmission. We were tired, stressed and a little "vacationed-out." When we pulled up in our second car overloaded with legs and luggage and saw the welcoming lights of “The Edge” against the darkness of the jungle, we heaved a sigh of relief. We were home. The house is magnificent with remarkable handcrafted wood, tile and ironwork, sophisticated decor, excellent furnishings and all the amenities. It has a unique multi-leveled layout that gives couples complete privacy while providing huge shared living spaces. It’s perfect for grown-up families who want to still speak to each other after vacation. The house is designed to embrace the outside and is completely open to the wraparound decks with lovely furniture for slothful relaxation. The view is nothing less than remarkable. You’re literally perched over the edge of the ocean. We stayed during the rainy season for which we have no regrets because the dramatic storms just added to the experience. Plus, we "owned" every place we went. More mud, but no crowds. We snorkeled at Cano Island with great fish and whale sightings. We surfed in Dominical, but the waves were too strong. Try the smaller beaches nearby. Manual Antonio is beautiful, especially from the seat of a mud-covered ATV! A few went canyoning with Quepo Canyoning and pronounced it the "best activity EVER." But I confess that a lot of time was spent kickin' back at “The Edge” because it was so unique. We got local foods and cooked in just to enjoy the place. One night we hired a local chef from Kukula restaurant to prepare us a wonderful fresh fish meal. On another we went for an impromptu dinner at nearby Jolly Roger, which was one of the most fun evenings of the trip. Tip: get BOTH burgers and wings! But the greatest asset of “The Edge” is the owner, John. We tragically lost a valuable camera with 10 days’ of photos while ATVing through rough jungle trails. A dark end to an otherwise brilliant trip. But a few days later, John called that the camera had been found. He personally negotiated its return, spent an afternoon retrieving it and shipped it home. That’s the real reason staying at the “The Edge” was so dramatic. What an ending. Our deepest THANKS to John for going so far beyond the call of duty.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Dr. Jim in Raleigh
(Raleigh, NC, USA)
Date of Stay: 05/07/10
Review Submitted: 05/11/10
Gorgeous views everywhere you look of the jungle meeting the sea and sky make time at the Edge truly blissful. We used the Edge to explore the local area beaches, but it was extremely inviting to return and kick back in the great room, pool, and decks surrounded by that view. Great family getaway. Extremely accessible. Would recommend for anyone. Owners were very accommodating and hospitable, meeting our every need.
Owner response:Thank you so much, It is always a pleasure to have people who can appreciate the essence of "The Edge" Come back soon! Amanda & John
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Rick Studio City
(Studio City, CA, USA)
Date of Stay: 02/08/10
Review Submitted: 02/22/10
The setting is incredible. The views of the ocean are wonderful but the house is in need of some attention. While we were there we had problems with the refrigerator not cooling, the internet, the electrical, the clothes dryer, and the umbrella which provides the only needed shade at the pool area disintegrated. It was quite hot and the only a/c is in the two bedrooms. We were surprised that there were no ceiling fans so when there was no breeze it was pretty uncomfortable. They have intermittent internet service but the wireless router was locked away up in an office at the far end of the house so the only service that we got was in the master bedroom. Not great if you're travelling with two couples. Basics that were supposed to be included like bathroom soap were missing. The kitchen was nearly empty, don't expect things like coffee, sugar, or anything upon your arrival. There were some basic spices and a botlle of water provided. The towels were old, mismatched and stained. The sheets for some strange reason were flannel in this hot climate. The beds and sofas however were very comfortable. On the owner's website it said that cleaning was included twice weekly. Before we arrived the owner suggested that we pay for additional cleaning which we did. After we paid we saw that it was supposed to be included and asked the seller about it. She said that it was an error, but she did not refund the money. We paid for two cleanings The cleaner only stayed two hours the first day until we mentioned it and then the cleaner came back to finish. The power for one part of the house which included the only TV and one bathroom went out while we were there and was out for 5 days until someone figured out where the breaker was. I realize it sounds like we didn't like The Edge but I'm just trying to be honest. The house is nice but the attention to detail is not really there. I think that the owners could do a better job at maintaining the property and accommodating their guests. If these types of things aren't important to you I'd say that the setting and location are perfect. We saw monkeys and toucans at the house which was wonderful. The sunsets were perfect. Jennifer who was staying in the guest house watching the property was fantastic! She was kind, knowledgeable about the area, things to do, restaurants, etc.
Owner response:I am glad these visitors enjoyed the great location of The Edge, enjoyed spectacular sunsets, were generally comfortable and saw great wildlife. There are occasional problems with electric, internet and various other things we take for granted in the states. It is unfourtunate these guests had to experience more than one during their stay. However, it is part of the charm and challenge of living in the jungle! It is the real deal here, not the Marriot. We have had an exceptionally hot year, usally ocean breezes keep the Great Room cool at 150 feet above sea level. All bedroom are air-conditioned. Just a note, extra maid service is upon request, we do not own flannel sheets, and consumable kitchen supplies are not advertized or supplied unless requested. We stirve to keep everything up to date, we have had nothing but glowing reviews. There is always room for improvement and here at The Edge we will continue to make sure you have the most wonderful experience possible.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, sightseeing.
Guest: amandaforcostarica
(Palm Beach Gardens, Florida)
Date of Stay: 04/01/09
Review Submitted: 04/10/09
The view, the view, the view! Definitely the most SPECTACULAR I've ever seen! It feels like you are floating over the ocean. It was barefoot elegance, pool, sundecks, huge great room! I saw dolphins from the deck! I couldn't believe how clear I could see them. Extremely clean! I loved it! I will be coming back!
Owner response:Well, she says it all, when will you be having the the time of your life at "The Edge"?
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway.
Guest: Denise & Bill
(Galloway, n.j. usa)
Date of Stay: 03/17/09
Review Submitted: 03/30/09
This was the most beautifully place i have ever been. The house and guest house were great, comfortable and clean.We also felt very safe on the property. I would definately recommend it to all my friends. Don,t miss going Zip lining and horseback riding to the waterfalls, we also went snorkeling which was alot of fun. Also take advantage of getting a message at the spa, only a three minute walk. Overall i rate this the best vacation of my LIFE.
Owner response:We want you to have a LIFE changing experience here, everyone we can offer it to is welcome. Our doors are open! Visit "The Edge" for your own Costa Rican adventure......
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Kate & Jeff
(New Jersey)
Date of Stay: 02/14/09
Review Submitted: 03/30/09
This was one of the most breathtaking places imaginable! From start to finish, everything about The Edge was way beyond expectations. To find this type of value in such a premier property is unprecedented. We couldn't believe it, and intend to share our little secret with people we know would truly appreciate the unique experience this private villa offers. Can't wait to go back. This is Costa Rica at its finest....great service, relaxing privacy, & everything & anything else just minutes away. WOW!! Kate & Jeff
Owner response:Oops!,.... the secret is out! Who will be next to get the opportunity to stay at "The Edge" ...... Don't miss this once in a lifetime experience, unless, of course, you come back for another stay....
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Johnie & Babs
(Folsom, NJ, USA)
Date of Stay: 02/01/09
Review Submitted: 04/17/09
John & Barbara, Folsom, NJ An absolutely private piece of paradise! It takes your breath away and at the same time is pleasantly overwhelming your senses of sight, sound and smell. Enjoy the comforts of "home" away from home. Lounge on the large, comfortable deck that wraps 180 degrees around the house, while lulled by the gentle sound of the ocean waves. Awaken to spectacular sunrises and experience unrivaled sunsets. Watch the monkeys swing in the nearby trees, the tucans, parrots and pelicans flying overhead and be dazzled by the brillant colors and smells of the native flora. Take a dip in the privacy of your own pool, as you look out at the Pacific ocean. Our first and lasting impression was "what else could be better than this" ? However, we did find fabulous restaurants, spa treatments, beaches, waterfalls, hiking and zip-lining through the lush jungles close by. We found our Xanadu at the Edge and have returned 5 times since!
Owner response:Take the advice of some of our favorite guests, they just can't get enough, book your time at Xanadu now!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Julia and Jim
(Cleveland, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 12/28/08
Review Submitted: 04/15/09
We thoroughly enjoyed our family reunion at "The Edge" at Puertocito. The Spanish style main house is perched on a peninsula high above the Pacific Ocean. The 180 degree panoramic views, high vaulted living/room, large decks and terraced swimming pool are perfect for entertaining. The spectacular sunsets are mesmerizing, almost beyond belief. Accommodations are spacious and private. The main house has two separate bedrooms with private baths. The guest cottage about 50 yards away has a private bedroom/bath on thelower level and a living room-kitchen-dining-terrace and bedroom bath on the upper level. The ever present wildlife is special treat with howler monkeys, toucans and pelicans providing a variety of entertainment. 30 minute hikes to the beach or nearby overlooks generate exciting exercise. The "Cuna de Angel" restaurant is a short walk away and serves gourmet meals with tropical ambiance. Waterfalls, horseback riding, zip-line tours and other attractions are nearby. We loved it!
Owner response:Well, these guys are sure to be back! Don't forget The Edge when planning anything from a romantic getaway to a family reunion. A vacation you will never forget.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway.
Guest: Jeff A
(chicago Il USA)
Date of Stay: 12/15/08
Review Submitted: 04/21/09
Well...Where do I begin.. I have traveled through out the world,and I can say this was the nicest property I have ever stayed at!!! I have been all over Costa Rica, this is the one and only place I want to return too.The View from anywhere on the property is magnificent.You will never be in a more magical place.Truly the managers of this estate made the experience even that more memorable.If you are looking for inspiration this is your spot. The word nirvana would best explain my feelings of my stay. JEFF. A
Owner response:WOW, this is "The Edge" in a nutshell. You don't want to miss this, contact us, book your Magical Stay and experience the "nirvana" only to be had at "The Edge" for yourself! The Ocean Front Villa where you actually CAN see Forever...
Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Woodstockmommom
(New Jersey)
Date of Stay: 09/10/08
Review Submitted: 03/31/09
Stayed for a week last year with my sister and found the "Edge" to be all as described. We found everything we needed closeby and loved the area. The view is spectacular and the wildlife amazing. We will definitely book again.
Owner response:Return visitors are our favorite! But don't miss your first visit to The Edge.....
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: tots in tow
(new york)
Date of Stay: 02/16/08
Review Submitted: 04/01/09
my family and i occupied the guest house at "the edge" it was perfect! gorgeous sunrises every morning ( and we saw them with 2 babies under two!) a tucan sighting on a near bye tree and the howler monkeys calling in the distance! a comfortable and adorable place! we loved eating breakfast on the patio and hiking to the nearbye look out point with tots in tow- the main house is great as well- our extended family stayed there- so we also got to take advantage of the wonderful pool and panoramic dinner views! a great time had by all and all ages! enjoy!
Owner response:A perfect place for families, you don't even need to venture away from the 12 acres of "The Edge" to see a huge amount of wildlife! Just look out your window or step out on to one of the many decks the property has to offer.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.