Casas de Soleil

Cheerful orange and white signage along Santa Teresa's central dirt road points guests to the entrance of Casas de Soleil. After parking or getting dropped off in the small gravel lot, Trent, Soraya, their young daughter Soleil, and/or one of two dogs greet guests. The welcome continues with fresh coconut water and a bowl of fruit. Right from the start, the place feels natural and relaxed. The land, filled with palms and flowering plants, remains as untouched as possible, as Soraya and Trent care deeply about the environment.

Even though the property is close to town, it remains out of eye and earshot. The only sounds are made by birds, monkeys, and -- if listening closely -- waves crashing in the distance. Construction of the four villas began in 2001, and they are intentionally spread out to allow for privacy; Mirador (the largest one) is farther up the hill with views of the Pacific Ocean from the rooftop deck. The other three are closer to the entrance and the communal pool, which is accessed by a path through lush foliage. During the day, Soraya can usually often be found working in or around the reception area, while Trent -- when not busy with his own construction business -- is tending to his fleet of surfboards and providing lessons. The family lives off-site, so at night a 24-hour security guard keeps an eye on things. Guests --families, surfers, and couples -- might be grilling on the terrace, chatting over drinks at the pool, or walking to the town's restaurants and bars. It's has a home-away-from-home vibe and the owners' knack for genuine hospitality makes guests to feel like they are part of something special.

Casas de Soleil is located in Santa Teresa, at the southwestern tip of Nicoya Peninsula. The out-of-the-way location is suited for those seeking authentic Costa Rica, as the difficulty in arriving steers more conventional guests to the slightly commercialized towns of Tamarindo or Jaco. Roads in this part of the peninsula are dirt and gravel, and navigating the area can be tricky without the right vehicles. Guests may want to consider renting a 4x4 or ATV to get around the area -- both preferred by the locals -- but it is not necessary, especially for beachgoers. Playa Carmen, five minutes down the hill on foot, is the hottest spot in the country for international surfers. The beach and town of Santa Teresa (with cool bars and restaurants) attracts expats from all over the world. 

Visitors can arrive in a multitude of ways. One option is to rent a vehicle upon arrival at Liberia International Airport and make the five-hour drive through a mix of paved and rough roads. Another option (the best and most expensive one) is to take a commuter plane from Liberia or San Jose to the smaller Tambor Airport, and then a 45-minute taxi to the hotel. Another is to arrive via San Jose and take the Puntarenas ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya to Paquera. Another ferry makes travels between Jaco and Montezuma. The owners will gladly assist with transportation arrangements and parking at the hotel is free. 

Each of the four villas has a contemporary design that recalls the simple lines, graceful arcs, and warm tones often found in Southeast Asian resorts. Rooms are rustic and stylish, with neutral walls and glazed concrete floors. There's plenty of hardwood throughout and some villas even have charming wood ceilings. The villas are built in so as not to absorb the area's humidity, and Trent and Soraya have both put a great deal of passion into each one. All units have fully-equipped kitchens, living areas, Bose speakers, and outdoor space with hammocks and charcoal barbecues. There are no TVs. Bedrooms have one or two queen beds, or one king-size bed. While there is air-conditioning in each of the units, it's not in all of the rooms and the owners discourage the use of it. Bathroom decor varies but all have chunky, rustic tilework and stand-up showers. 

Casa Grande and Casa Hemingway both have two bedrooms. Casa Romantica also has two bedrooms -- one that is on the lower level, and another that is separated by an outdoor terrace (great for mother-in-laws). Casa Mirador is the biggest villa and is set apart from the rest of property -- it rises three levels and easily sleeps 10 people. There is a private pool, a terrace on each of the three levels, and shaded rooftop deck with views. Two of the four bedrooms can be broken down into private units so guests who do not need all four bedrooms may be sharing with others.  

Guests staying in three out of the four villas will share one modern outdoor pool and sunny terrace. This is accessed through a pathway near the main reception building and there are sun loungers, tables, chairs, umbrellas, and beach towels set out for guests. The biggest villa, Casa Mirador, has its own outdoor pool and terrace, though this may be shared with units within the house depending on how the villa's four bedrooms are split up during the stay. 

Breakfast is not served at the hotel and there is no restaurant or bar. Most guests make use of their kitchens or walk to nearby restaurants. 

Activities and reservations can be planned at the front office. Arrangements include anything from quad rentals (ATVs), fishing or kayaking trips, zip-line tours, stand-up paddleboard rentals, or spa services. Yogis have access to several yoga studios in the area for daily classes or private sessions.  

Trent is passionate about surfing and encourages guests to go out for a lesson. He has several surfboards in his collection, and he teaches newbies using his own technique. Sometimes Soleil, the owners' daughter, joins the lessons to help with younger kids, or to take photos.  A small area inside the front office sells t-shirts, hats, and other small gifts. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.