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

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Privacy at this relaxing poolside
Ahhhh
Poolside porch with dining and bbq area
Poolside dining and bbq area
What is not to love?

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View in a map
Atenas, Alajuela
  • Place, Palmares Church
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • Place, Parque Viva
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Place, Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center
    ‪32 min drive‬
  • Airport, San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.)
    ‪39 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Master Suite

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

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.







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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 221962vb
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

About the area

Mercedes

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. Ready for a night out? Consider Parque Viva and Villa Amphitheater. Kayaking and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and hiking nearby.
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Map
Atenas, Alajuela

What's nearby

  • Palmares Church - 24 min drive - 12.5 km
  • Botanical Orchid Garden La Garita - 27 min drive - 19.6 km
  • Parque Viva - 31 min drive - 24.0 km
  • Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center - 32 min drive - 24.9 km
  • Multiplaza Mall Escazu - 47 min drive - 41.8 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Firenze Ristorante - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Balcón del Café - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪ŌMi Sushi Bar - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Peperonni’s - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Bar y Restaurante El Mejor Clima - ‬5 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.

How much does it cost to stay at THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE?

As of 9 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE on 20 May, 2026 start from S$272, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at THE GEM OF ATENAS: EXQUISITE HOME on 18 acres of TROPICAL PARADISE?

On-site parking is available at the 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, Aguacate Mines and Minas Del Aguacate. Rock Bridge and Grecia Park are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

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. 108 out of 112 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 112 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 112 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 112 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 112 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Meagan D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved the home. It was beautiful and in such a special tucked away space surrounded by stunning trees. Everything was as advertised and our check in and stay were very easy. We enjoyed the beautiful pool throughout the day and our favorite time was for an after dinner swim. We didn't have a rental car and it was easy to get there from Jaco, to the Peace Waterfall, and to the airport early in the morning using the wonderful taxi of Heriberto.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
On all accounts our stay was magical. The finca was so charming, comfortable and Costa Rican. And, the special attention paid to us by our caretakers, Meylin and Manual, was an added bonus. Tonia couldn’t have been more helpful and attentive throughout our stay. We found our place, for sure.
Stayed 48 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2026
It is a joy to hear you had a magical time at Quinta Colina Paula. Looking forward to meeting you in person upon your next visit!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everyone and everything was fantastic.
Stayed 16 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2026
Dear Scott! Love you hearing you had a lovely time. Looking forward to receiving you again at Quinta Colina Paula!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful hosts, excellent communication. Lovely, well equipped home in a beautiful and very peaceful setting.
Stayed 16 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2026
Dear Michael! How we loved meeting you in person. We still enjoy reminiscing. What great laughs we had. Hope you are both doing well and stay in touch!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adam D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic home in a great location. The finca is absolutely beautiful and clean with everything you would need. Thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2026
Dear Adam! Wishing you many more happy returns to the finca. We are constantly working to make your stay the best possible.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tonia accommodated a last-minute request for our weeklong stay. The house, grounds, and staff exceeded our expectations in every way. The house looks like a movie set, has complete privacy and beautiful views and sounds from every window. We stayed during hot season, temps near 90, and the house was perfectly comfortable with fans and lovely cross-breezes. The kitchen is well-appointed with all manner of pots, pans, small appliances, spices. And the setting is just spectacular, with mountain views, palm trees, fruit trees, a delightful pool, lots of birds and the occasional shy lizard. The caretakers, Meylin and Manuel, kept us supplied in eggs, mangoes, and caimitas from the finca and were a big part of what made the stay so special. I have paid 3 times as much for VRBO rentals that are half as luxurious. We are already looking at dates to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wendy V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about this property was great! We enjoyed the neighborhood, all of the amenities, and the grounds are stunning! The house is exactly as described. The weather is absolutely perfect. So many birds to see there and the views are breathtaking. The house is in a great location to explore Costa Rica. Thank you for sharing your home with us!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2026
Dearest Wendy! Thank you for your lovely review! So pleased you enjoyed your stay at Quinta Colina Paula. We are looking forward to welcoming you again soon.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

sjrisley100

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing stay at an absolutely stunning location in the heart of the natural beauty of Costa Rica! Top notch experience from start to finish! Hope to return again sometime soon! Highly recommend! Many thanks ot the hosts!!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Dec, 2025
Such a great pleasure having you stay at Quinta Colina Paula! We look forward to receiving you in the future. Wishing you happy holidays and a delightful 2026! Team Colina Paula
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2026
Dear Paul! So glad you had a lovely stay here. Looking forward to receiving you again in the near future!
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2026
Dearest Isabelle! Looking at all the list of amazing guests tbat have stayed at Quinta Colina Paula. Hope you are doing well.
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill H.

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

Perfecto

The property was great, and the property managers were even better!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jun, 2021
Thank you !!
Verified

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
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Dec, 2024
Dear David, thank you for your kind review. We loved meeting all of you and look forward to seeing you again. Yes, the tropical depression hanging over CR was highly unusual.
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Mar, 2025
Thank you for your kind review. But it is us who need to thank you. We have been so blessed with the most wonderful tenants. The pupose of the quinta was to share the dream. It was a delight meeting all of you. We miss you! Safe travels and see you sooner thsn later!!
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence W.

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

Fantastic property

This was our third stay at this amazing property and each time we are more impressed. We have stayed at a lot of rental properties in Costa Rica over the years and this one is in the top 2. All the amenities,privacy, beautiful landscaping, excellent property managers and owner, it’s all here! We want to come back again... and again
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Feb, 2021
Dear Maxine and Lawrence! Thank you for your helpful feedback. It is delightful to hear you feel at home at the Quinta. Mi casa, su casa! Pura Vida!
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul, 2024
Greetings from Quinta Colina Paula. Thank you for taking the time to write your review. We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay and look forward to welcome you again in the near future! Team Quinta Colina Paula
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maxine W.

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

Beautiful private home

We have rented homes in Costa Rica many times and this was definitely one of our favorites. We hope to return here sometime if it’s available when we need it. We loved the privacy, the landscaping, the outdoor seating and many other things. It’s a very beautiful place. Thanks for sharing it!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar, 2020
Hi Maxine, We are very happy that you guys enjoyed your stay at the finca. Be sure to come back. Piet and Yvonne
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark H.

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
Verified

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
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Jan, 2024
Dear James and Carol! What a pleasure meeting you! Thank you for appreciating the house and the finca. See you very soon! Tonia
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leah B.

Excellent rental - one of our favorite stays ever

We loved our stay at Quinta Collina Paula. It is a beautiful and airy home with extensive tropical gardens. Everything about the home is inviting and comfortable. We had all that we needed and more. The weather in August was perfect, the little town of Atenas is charming with several good restaurants and it is easy to get around the area. Property managers Piet and Yvonne were also wonderful and so helpful. We hope to visit again and we thank you!

About the host

Hosted by TONIA

Host profile image
My name is Tonia. I am Belgian and reside mostly in the US and Europe but this is my paradise. I ended up in Costa Rica 17 years ago by chance, fell in love with this beautiful country and its kind people. I soon enough returned to find an create my own piece/peace of heaven. Together now with my husband Mark (who has a passion for gardening and exotic fruits), we strive to create beauty. We are happy to share the wealth and welcome you to Quinta Colina Paula.

Why they chose this property

Looking for a Costa Rican paradise took time, a lot of time. I soon enough realized I wanted to live in the mountains as the temperature is more moderate and cool at night. Searching for months, I came to the conclusion I did not want to just buy a house and be done. After months of searching my then young son convinced me to buy this land, in a lovely residential area, 5 minutes driving from town but full of potential because of its natural abundance. Creating Quinta Colina Paula became a total labor of love, full of adventure but also challenges. It seems to be a never ending journey for which I am so grateful.

What makes this property unique

The unique benefits of his place have been described already above. But to sum it up, I would say that staying at Quinta Colina Paula is a joy because everything just works. The exquisite house and pool, set in the most beautiful nature, with the sounds of the rivers and birdsong at only 5 min from town, is a rare find.

Languages:

English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch
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