Villa Encantada: You'll think you died and went to Heaven..Your Private Paradise
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Villa Encantada: You'll think you died and went to Heaven..Your Private Paradise
Villa Encantada ~~ A vacation DESTINATION of a Lifetime ~~ one you won't forget.
Spacious Tri-level 4 BR, sleeps 2-12, views of Lake, Rain Forest from every room
Terraza overlooking Lake/Gardens: A Perfect Venue for Family Reunions or Wedding
Sunken Living Room w/ FP and Lake/Garden views.. Casual Elegance at it's best!
Dining Area for 8 w/ Garden- Pond views. Patio w/ Huge BBQ and Exquisite Nature
Wet Bar/Kitchen overlooking Garden Ponds and Lake Arenal
Full Kitchen w/ Wet Bar, new appliances, refri w/ Ice Maker. Everything you need
Restaurant Owner Chef Tyron prepares 5 Star Dinners for you at Villa Encantada
HUGE Master BR w/ Fireplace, Full Bath and Incredible Lake Views... Enjoy!
2 Guest BR's (Mini-Master Suites) w/ Garden views, Queen Bed & awesome furn.
Master Loft sleeps 6 w/ additional sleeper sofa, w/ wrap decks overlooking Lake
Pristine Gardens~~ enjoy a nice BBQ, after hiking our miles of Nature Trails.
Spring Fed Swimming Pool (no chemicals). Drained / Cleaned prior to your arrival
Your own Nature Preserve at it's Exquisite Best. Waterfalls + Manicured Gardens
Awe Inspiring Rain Forest Waterfalls and swimming pools right on the Estate. WOW
Spring Fed Waterfalls everywhere. Enjoy pristine nature here like nowhere else.
Fly Fish for Bass on your Private Nature Preserve at Villa Encantada. Sweet!
Your kids won't remember where they left their Ipod or Nintendo... Too Much Fun!
Howler Monkey on a daily visit ~~ Villa Encantada REALLY IS a Nature Preserve~~
Our Tame Peacocks ~~ Saphiro and Pearla on a cruise around the gardens.
The Famous Arenal Volcano a safe 15 miles from the villa. Awe Inspiring vista.
Sunset like this one await your enjoyment. Taken at Villa Encantada from terraza
Your Host/Owner at Villa Encantada ~ Glenn, with a Poison Dart Frog on my finger
- Bedrooms4
- Sleeps15
- 3 Bathrooms
62 Reviews of Property 22582 in Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
Villa Encantada stay was terrific
Submitted: August 22, 2006
Stayed: March 2006
Our family spent 7 wonderfull days at Villa Encantada. Not too far away from Nuevo Arenal a quiet little town which we all enjoyed visiting. Villa Encantada is close to, and has a spectacular view, of Lake Arenal.
The owner (your host) also has a pontoon boat available for fishing trips. Or, in our case, for sight seeing cruises. We were in awe of the beautiful Volcano Areanal. Our trip on the boat was so enjoyable and relaxing.
Speaking of relaxing. From the moment we arrived at the Villa we felt at home. The Villa is everything we had read about prior to selecting Encantada as our vacation destination in Costa Rica. Honestly Encantada is everything it was to be and MORE.
The Villa has a beauty and warmth you can feel the moment you see it... Not to mentiion how one feels upon walking in the front door. Of course you will have to tear yourself away from the spectacular view of Lake Arenal, from the front porch, in order to enter the Villa.
Walking into the Villa you immediately have a view of the back porch and the garden paradise which is your backyard. The pond and island are the center piece of the back yard and garden. You will want to walk across the suspended bridge to the island where you can enjoy feeding the fish in the pond. A daily task my Granddaughter gladly took on and which we all enjoyed sharing with her.
There are 4 Kayaks available to use in the pond or take down to the hill to Lake Arenal. My granddaughter and I tried our kayaking skills in the pond. She took to it like a duck takes to water. And, I can attest to the fact the water in the pond is clean, clear, cold and drinkable... As I swallowed half the pond before I mastered the art of getting onto the Kayak. Another fond memory from our stay at Encantada.
The nature trails created by the owner are maped out for your review. Or, as wek did, you can begin exploring them on your own. Getting caught up in the beauty of the rain forest, following the flowing creek up to the water fall and beyond... An enjoyable time was had by us as we explored the gardens and trails of Encantada.
Every morning we were awakened by the Howler Monkeys in the rain forest. Once you have heard them you are not likely to forget it. Even better than hearing them was seeing them one morning from the back porch of the Villa.
Watching the amazing variety of birds eating from the bird feeder and taking a whole bunch of pictures... Most enjoyable! And, if you don't have a camera I seriously doubt if you will soon forget the first time you see the Toucans.
We enjoyed the variety of restaurants which are easy to get to from the Villa. We found them to be clean, reasonably priced and the food and service was very good to terrific.
Eating "Tico" is most enjoyable, and we would recommend the pleasure that can be derived from eatiing "Tico".
The canopy tour is most enjoyable and only a short drive from the villa. If you want to see the rainforest try seeing it from the Top down... Very impressive.
Our host, guide, skipper (on our boat tour of Lake Arenal) and new "Friend". Made our stay at the Villa truly and Enchanted vacation. You can not ask for a better host anywhere.
We will return again to visit paradise at Villa Encantada.
It is everything it was said to be... and more!!
If you are going to Costa Rica you do not want to miss out on staying at Villa Encantada where you can experience the gem of Costa Rica... Lake Arenal, and the crown jewel Arenal the Volcano
The owner (your host) also has a pontoon boat available for fishing trips. Or, in our case, for sight seeing cruises. We were in awe of the beautiful Volcano Areanal. Our trip on the boat was so enjoyable and relaxing.
Speaking of relaxing. From the moment we arrived at the Villa we felt at home. The Villa is everything we had read about prior to selecting Encantada as our vacation destination in Costa Rica. Honestly Encantada is everything it was to be and MORE.
The Villa has a beauty and warmth you can feel the moment you see it... Not to mentiion how one feels upon walking in the front door. Of course you will have to tear yourself away from the spectacular view of Lake Arenal, from the front porch, in order to enter the Villa.
Walking into the Villa you immediately have a view of the back porch and the garden paradise which is your backyard. The pond and island are the center piece of the back yard and garden. You will want to walk across the suspended bridge to the island where you can enjoy feeding the fish in the pond. A daily task my Granddaughter gladly took on and which we all enjoyed sharing with her.
There are 4 Kayaks available to use in the pond or take down to the hill to Lake Arenal. My granddaughter and I tried our kayaking skills in the pond. She took to it like a duck takes to water. And, I can attest to the fact the water in the pond is clean, clear, cold and drinkable... As I swallowed half the pond before I mastered the art of getting onto the Kayak. Another fond memory from our stay at Encantada.
The nature trails created by the owner are maped out for your review. Or, as wek did, you can begin exploring them on your own. Getting caught up in the beauty of the rain forest, following the flowing creek up to the water fall and beyond... An enjoyable time was had by us as we explored the gardens and trails of Encantada.
Every morning we were awakened by the Howler Monkeys in the rain forest. Once you have heard them you are not likely to forget it. Even better than hearing them was seeing them one morning from the back porch of the Villa.
Watching the amazing variety of birds eating from the bird feeder and taking a whole bunch of pictures... Most enjoyable! And, if you don't have a camera I seriously doubt if you will soon forget the first time you see the Toucans.
We enjoyed the variety of restaurants which are easy to get to from the Villa. We found them to be clean, reasonably priced and the food and service was very good to terrific.
Eating "Tico" is most enjoyable, and we would recommend the pleasure that can be derived from eatiing "Tico".
The canopy tour is most enjoyable and only a short drive from the villa. If you want to see the rainforest try seeing it from the Top down... Very impressive.
Our host, guide, skipper (on our boat tour of Lake Arenal) and new "Friend". Made our stay at the Villa truly and Enchanted vacation. You can not ask for a better host anywhere.
We will return again to visit paradise at Villa Encantada.
It is everything it was said to be... and more!!
If you are going to Costa Rica you do not want to miss out on staying at Villa Encantada where you can experience the gem of Costa Rica... Lake Arenal, and the crown jewel Arenal the Volcano
Helpful votes: 37/39
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business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
A Destination Property
Submitted: May 2, 2013
Stayed: April 2013
You could spend your entire stay without leaving this home and find plenty to do. The estate grounds are perfection, manicured yet natural. Various trails going right from paths in the yard out into the rain forest are maintained and provide a Costa Rican hike without leaving home. Relaxing in the comfortable outdoor furniture, overlooking the estate, feeling the pleasant breezes, makes you feel as if you've been able to afford where the rich and famous would stay. Glen is currently working on a water slide for the multilevel pool - the kids should love it!
The home is unique and comfortable with beautiful, carved wooden doors on each of the bedrooms. The baths have an "upscale" feel. The kitchen is well equipped. Every time I needed something I looked around and by golly it was there - candles, matches, first aid kit, extra pillows.
Glen, the host, is available yet unobtrusive. He is available to provide as little, or much help as you need. The care he puts in this home is obvious. It clearly makes a difference Glen lives down the road and has a very "hands on" approach versus a property manager of a home owned by someone not even in the country.
Be aware: Just like most homes in the area it is not air conditioned. In the afternoon and when retiring for the evening we were sometimes too warm. There are numerous fans in the home but this was not sufficient at times for complete comfort. There are two sets of spiral stairs that would be difficult for anyone with physical limitations or difficult for young children. The bedding was in some need of replacement but knowing Glen is is likely in the works.
The home is unique and comfortable with beautiful, carved wooden doors on each of the bedrooms. The baths have an "upscale" feel. The kitchen is well equipped. Every time I needed something I looked around and by golly it was there - candles, matches, first aid kit, extra pillows.
Glen, the host, is available yet unobtrusive. He is available to provide as little, or much help as you need. The care he puts in this home is obvious. It clearly makes a difference Glen lives down the road and has a very "hands on" approach versus a property manager of a home owned by someone not even in the country.
Be aware: Just like most homes in the area it is not air conditioned. In the afternoon and when retiring for the evening we were sometimes too warm. There are numerous fans in the home but this was not sufficient at times for complete comfort. There are two sets of spiral stairs that would be difficult for anyone with physical limitations or difficult for young children. The bedding was in some need of replacement but knowing Glen is is likely in the works.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers
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business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
Guest Comment Entered by Owner
Incredibley Awesome ~~ Defies Description
Submitted: April 29, 2013
Stayed: March 2011
Hey Glenn,
Villa Encantada was awesome. So much so, that we really felt like we were slumming it once we got to Jaco. The house is absolutely gorgeous and so are all the surroundings. You have done a wonderful job. We just got all our pictures back and had already forgotten how green everything is there. For the most part we just relaxed a lot. Each night we ate somewhere different. Our adventures included the Canopy Tour, La Fortuna waterfalls and Tabacon Hot Springs. All were absolutely beautiful. The landscaping is absolutely beautiful. Once we left Villa Encantada we made our way to Jaco just in time for the rain. So much for going to the beach. Anyhow our visit there was short and like I said we really felt like the luxurious part of our trip had ended. We had an incredible time. We certainly appreciate you sharing your home with us. Please send me some cards and brochures as I have already had inquiries from people we have showed our pictures to. Thanks again,
Villa Encantada was awesome. So much so, that we really felt like we were slumming it once we got to Jaco. The house is absolutely gorgeous and so are all the surroundings. You have done a wonderful job. We just got all our pictures back and had already forgotten how green everything is there. For the most part we just relaxed a lot. Each night we ate somewhere different. Our adventures included the Canopy Tour, La Fortuna waterfalls and Tabacon Hot Springs. All were absolutely beautiful. The landscaping is absolutely beautiful. Once we left Villa Encantada we made our way to Jaco just in time for the rain. So much for going to the beach. Anyhow our visit there was short and like I said we really felt like the luxurious part of our trip had ended. We had an incredible time. We certainly appreciate you sharing your home with us. Please send me some cards and brochures as I have already had inquiries from people we have showed our pictures to. Thanks again,
Helpful votes: 1/1
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business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
a slice of heaven
Submitted: April 14, 2013
Stayed: March 2013
Villa Encantada blew us away.... every word the owner Glenn writes is true. The home and grounds are amazing, you will feel like you have your own personal paradise. The home is quality throughout, lacking nothing. The decor is unique and wonderful, and the recent bath upgrades are fantastic. Glenn is an amazing host and a helpful planner for excursions etc. He had an answer for our every question and made great arrangements for canopy tours and white water expeditions. He arranged for a local chef to prepare dinner for us, clean up etc which really made our time relaxing. Be sure to walk every trail in this beautiful property.... it encaptures what Costa Rica is all about. We had our family of 9 there .... ages from 2 to 62 and all had great fun. When we return to Costa Rica, there is no question where we are staying.... Villa Encantada is the place !! There are many options out there but you wont find this combination of home, acreage and view anywhere else.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: Hola Marlin,
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and experience with me and our future guests. It's an honor to know you and your family and I'm so glad that I was able to make a difference in your Costa Rican vacation experience.
Sharing Villa Encantada and our "Slice of Paradise" over the last 16 years is and has been an incredible journey for myself and our staff as it is for you and your family, and helping you hit the ground running when you get here makes a huge difference in your getting the most out of your time with us. That you placed your confidence in me to help arrange your activities is a great compliment, and making sure that our guests have only the best (and safest) tour operators to attend them is what I strive for.
That you made the time to explore our extensive hiking trails and activities, (including a Kaykaking Trip excursion on the lake) on the our Nature Preserve makes all of our efforts and hard work so well worth it.
Thank Amigo ~~ we'll keep the light on for you and your family and hope to see you all as soon as time allows.
Your Host and Friend,
Glenn
Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and experience with me and our future guests. It's an honor to know you and your family and I'm so glad that I was able to make a difference in your Costa Rican vacation experience.
Sharing Villa Encantada and our "Slice of Paradise" over the last 16 years is and has been an incredible journey for myself and our staff as it is for you and your family, and helping you hit the ground running when you get here makes a huge difference in your getting the most out of your time with us. That you placed your confidence in me to help arrange your activities is a great compliment, and making sure that our guests have only the best (and safest) tour operators to attend them is what I strive for.
That you made the time to explore our extensive hiking trails and activities, (including a Kaykaking Trip excursion on the lake) on the our Nature Preserve makes all of our efforts and hard work so well worth it.
Thank Amigo ~~ we'll keep the light on for you and your family and hope to see you all as soon as time allows.
Your Host and Friend,
Glenn
Helpful votes: 2/2
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business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
March Break 2013
Submitted: March 28, 2013
Stayed: March 2013
When we decided to take our family, including grandchildren (ages 8 and 4) to Costa Rica for a vaction we researched potential venues and discovered Villa Encantade on line. Having seen the pictures and descriptions provided by owner Glenn McBride we had high expectations of this accomodation. Not only were our expectations met, they were exceeded. The website cannot do justice to this beautiful property, loving created by Glenn over 15 years. The house has every conceivable amenity and the 40 acres of grounds are impeccably cared for. Our grandchildren loved the pools, the bird feeder which attracted a wide variety of birds throughout the day and the trails through the rain forest. Glenn was a most attentive host, seeing to our every need. The property is close to town for groceries and restaurants and is an easy drive from the Liberia airport.. Our highlight was a three hour boat ride on the river in Cano Negro during which we saw caymans, monkeys, sloths and birds galore. Don't miss this opportunity. It is worth the three hour drive. Do yourself a favour - enjoy this delightful property.
Sue and Doug, Toronto
Sue and Doug, Toronto
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children
Owner's Response: Muchas Gracias Sue and Doug,
We appreciate your beaming review 5 Star Review, and thanks so much for spending time with us at Villa Encantada. When you say that your expectations were exceeded.... we proudly wear that feather in our cap, and realize that we must work hard to maintain the standard of excellence that we strive to acheive. Really, it's not work ~~ It's an Honor to be of Service to our Guests...... Helping them have the best vacation of their lives, helping arrange an Itinerary, and being available 24/7... that's is what it's all about.
We look forward to your next visit Amigos,
Your Host,
Glenn
We appreciate your beaming review 5 Star Review, and thanks so much for spending time with us at Villa Encantada. When you say that your expectations were exceeded.... we proudly wear that feather in our cap, and realize that we must work hard to maintain the standard of excellence that we strive to acheive. Really, it's not work ~~ It's an Honor to be of Service to our Guests...... Helping them have the best vacation of their lives, helping arrange an Itinerary, and being available 24/7... that's is what it's all about.
We look forward to your next visit Amigos,
Your Host,
Glenn
Helpful votes: 5/5
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business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
PERFECT! AWESOME! LUXURIOUS! A MUST VISIT VACATION VILLA!
Submitted: March 14, 2013
Stayed: January 2013
Villa Encantada is the perfect vacation place for everyone who wants to relax and enjoy every moment and bring home the most wonderful, long-lasting memories. Your host Glen facilitates your vacation even prior to your departure from home. Glen is your personal concierge and books trips and activities for near-by attractions. We went horseback riding, luxuriated at the hot springs, took a boat ride and more.
Our family consisted of my husband and I, our two daughters and sons-in-law and 3 young grandchildren. The stunning 40 acres of Nature Preserve include a beautiful pond in which we swam, kayaked and fished. The children loved walking over the hanging bridge that led to a center island. The exquisite multi-level pool is perfect for a refreshing swim and is surrounded by stunning landscaped shrubbery everywhere you look.
The Villa is meticulously decorated and maintained. Local accessories abound in every spacious room and the flowing layout enables everyone to be together and still enjoy private time when desired.
The grounds in the back of the Villa include spacious patios and roaming lawns. We all loved dining, relaxing and simply watching the toucans, various other birds as well as the eguana who frequented. The gardener is on property always unobtrusively attending to the grounds.
When you visit Villa Encantada, treat yourselves to walks, hikes along the beautiful paths, while listening to the howler monkeys and birds. We hiked down to Lake Arenal, passed waterfalls and were transported to what felt like a paradise too beautiful to be real. Villa Encantada provides the feeling and spaciousness of a luxury resort yet it is private you you and your guests.
My grand-children love to tell people about their favorite activities. Exquisite Peacocks showed off their beauty and entertained children of all ages (including my husband and me). The children loved playing horseshoes with their Aunt. At the top of their list were their morning hikes with their parents, locating unusual flowers and tropical foliage. Even though the children never admitted to being tired, when they had to give at night, an occasional treat was sleeping in the huge beautiful loft with Grandma, Mom or Aunt Rachel. I could go on and on, but the best thing I can say is to suggest that you discover for yourself how awesome Villa Encantada can be. Book your glorious vacation before Villa Encantada is totally sold out.
We have already booked our return for next winter.
Our family consisted of my husband and I, our two daughters and sons-in-law and 3 young grandchildren. The stunning 40 acres of Nature Preserve include a beautiful pond in which we swam, kayaked and fished. The children loved walking over the hanging bridge that led to a center island. The exquisite multi-level pool is perfect for a refreshing swim and is surrounded by stunning landscaped shrubbery everywhere you look.
The Villa is meticulously decorated and maintained. Local accessories abound in every spacious room and the flowing layout enables everyone to be together and still enjoy private time when desired.
The grounds in the back of the Villa include spacious patios and roaming lawns. We all loved dining, relaxing and simply watching the toucans, various other birds as well as the eguana who frequented. The gardener is on property always unobtrusively attending to the grounds.
When you visit Villa Encantada, treat yourselves to walks, hikes along the beautiful paths, while listening to the howler monkeys and birds. We hiked down to Lake Arenal, passed waterfalls and were transported to what felt like a paradise too beautiful to be real. Villa Encantada provides the feeling and spaciousness of a luxury resort yet it is private you you and your guests.
My grand-children love to tell people about their favorite activities. Exquisite Peacocks showed off their beauty and entertained children of all ages (including my husband and me). The children loved playing horseshoes with their Aunt. At the top of their list were their morning hikes with their parents, locating unusual flowers and tropical foliage. Even though the children never admitted to being tired, when they had to give at night, an occasional treat was sleeping in the huge beautiful loft with Grandma, Mom or Aunt Rachel. I could go on and on, but the best thing I can say is to suggest that you discover for yourself how awesome Villa Encantada can be. Book your glorious vacation before Villa Encantada is totally sold out.
We have already booked our return for next winter.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Tourists without a Car,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
People with Disabilities,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: Thank you so much Peri and Mickey for your Awesome Guest Review... so full of wonderful details to share with those that follow you. It was such a pleasure hosting your lovely family, and having the opportunity to get to know all of you.
It was great that you spent 9 days with us at Villa Encantada. What impressed me most was that, even though you did venture out for several day excursions, you spent the majority of your time at the villa, not wanting to leave ~~ and what is even more of a incredible compliment for me, is that you've booked the entire month of February 2014. That in and of itself... speaks volumes... and leaves me speechless!
Rest assured that your next vacation here at Villa Encantada will be even more spectacular that your first visit.
I get a great sense of satisfaction attending our to guests needs ~~ helping our guests get the most of their time with us. Eliminating the stress of having to deal with those minuscule details of traveling that can be a hassle. That is what I'm here for... to be of assistance and to make sure that your special vacation to Costa Rica and Villa Encantada is memorable and hassle free.
In fact, in July of this year (2013) I'll have the honor of hosting a family that stayed with us ten (10) years ago. That they remember Villa Encantada and have kept us in their minds eye after so long is a very special tribute to me and our staff. I think they'll be delighted with so many changes and upgrades that we've done and provided here at the villa over the past 10 years.
We look forward to your visit and being a part of your special vacation.
Very Warm Regards,
Your Host,
Glenn
It was great that you spent 9 days with us at Villa Encantada. What impressed me most was that, even though you did venture out for several day excursions, you spent the majority of your time at the villa, not wanting to leave ~~ and what is even more of a incredible compliment for me, is that you've booked the entire month of February 2014. That in and of itself... speaks volumes... and leaves me speechless!
Rest assured that your next vacation here at Villa Encantada will be even more spectacular that your first visit.
I get a great sense of satisfaction attending our to guests needs ~~ helping our guests get the most of their time with us. Eliminating the stress of having to deal with those minuscule details of traveling that can be a hassle. That is what I'm here for... to be of assistance and to make sure that your special vacation to Costa Rica and Villa Encantada is memorable and hassle free.
In fact, in July of this year (2013) I'll have the honor of hosting a family that stayed with us ten (10) years ago. That they remember Villa Encantada and have kept us in their minds eye after so long is a very special tribute to me and our staff. I think they'll be delighted with so many changes and upgrades that we've done and provided here at the villa over the past 10 years.
We look forward to your visit and being a part of your special vacation.
Very Warm Regards,
Your Host,
Glenn
Helpful votes: 4/4
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business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
Late Christmas Paradise
Submitted: March 6, 2013
Stayed: January 2013
In January our family met in Costa Rica for a late Christmas reunion, something we do annually. Our week long stay at Villa Encantada was the best we have experienced in our ten years of get togethers. The owner Glenn was amazing in the way he helped us plan for our trip. Many emails over several months helped us lay out workable plans for outings and transportation. There were eleven of us in our party. Glen helped arranage a 15 passenger van for pick-up and drop off from the airport and to two long day outings in the area. The drivers were amazing and that let us enjoy the area without hassle.
The property is exactly as pictured, actually even better, beautiful, clean, and restful. On pick-up from the airport the van driver took us to a supermarket to buy our full weeks supply of groceries. It was remarkable how they packed us, our luggage and all those groceries neatly into that van and delivered rilght on time to Glenn who greeted us on arrival. Glenn also arranged a wonderful catered meal with a birthday cake to celebrate my 70th birthday during our stay. Though it was mid January we celebrated our family Christmas with a tree, ornaments, stockings and presents. Glenn borrowed a neighbors portable Christmas tree for our use, which really completed the setting for us.
The family enjoyed the fresh spring swimming pool, the hiking trails and the many canoes on the property. The property is so wonderful, we spent three days just relaxing on site. We would definetely recommend Villa Encantada to anyone and everyone, particularly for families or groups wanting quality time together.
The property is exactly as pictured, actually even better, beautiful, clean, and restful. On pick-up from the airport the van driver took us to a supermarket to buy our full weeks supply of groceries. It was remarkable how they packed us, our luggage and all those groceries neatly into that van and delivered rilght on time to Glenn who greeted us on arrival. Glenn also arranged a wonderful catered meal with a birthday cake to celebrate my 70th birthday during our stay. Though it was mid January we celebrated our family Christmas with a tree, ornaments, stockings and presents. Glenn borrowed a neighbors portable Christmas tree for our use, which really completed the setting for us.
The family enjoyed the fresh spring swimming pool, the hiking trails and the many canoes on the property. The property is so wonderful, we spent three days just relaxing on site. We would definetely recommend Villa Encantada to anyone and everyone, particularly for families or groups wanting quality time together.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Girls Getaway,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 6/6
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business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
The best vacation home ever!
Submitted: March 3, 2013
Stayed: February 2013
My children surprised me with a trip to Costa Rica for my 60th birthday. We (nine of us) traveled the country for one week but without a doubt the best part of our trip was the stay at Villa Encantada - it was just far too short. Glenn was the best host ever and even presented me with a birthday cake! We will return again one day!
The house and grounds were immaculate and magical. It was especially good for young children - plenty to do and all the accessories required to do it!
The town of Arenal is a short drive and has everythng required in the way of grocery stores, banks, etc.
Thank you, Glenn!
The house and grounds were immaculate and magical. It was especially good for young children - plenty to do and all the accessories required to do it!
The town of Arenal is a short drive and has everythng required in the way of grocery stores, banks, etc.
Thank you, Glenn!
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: Thanks for your 5 star review and allowing us at Villa Encantada to be of service to you and your lovely family. What a Great Surpise that your family would take you on vacation from your home in the Bermuda Islands all the way to Costa Rica, and it was our pleasure to provide a birthday cake for your Birthday Party at the villa.
We look forward to your return visit Andrea~~ and the kids will have a brand new 100 ft waterslide to enjoy. It's under construction now (April 2013) and as soon as it's finished I'll post pics on this VRBO site.
Many thank you and your family for sharing your great enthusiasm and smiling faces.
Your Host,
Glenn
We look forward to your return visit Andrea~~ and the kids will have a brand new 100 ft waterslide to enjoy. It's under construction now (April 2013) and as soon as it's finished I'll post pics on this VRBO site.
Many thank you and your family for sharing your great enthusiasm and smiling faces.
Your Host,
Glenn
Helpful votes: 6/6
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Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
Beautiful Villa - A Perfect Getaway!!
Submitted: March 1, 2013
Stayed: January 2013
We recently stayed at Villa Encatada with a group of 11 family members (including children ages 8 & 9). This vacation was about as perfect as they get. The property itself is so beautiful and full of amazing things to do, that we had to force ourselves to go out and see the other wonderful things Costa Rica has to offer. The homeowner, Glenn, has found his true calling in life - making our stay incredibly warm, comfortable and easy!! His hospitality was top notch - helping with the planning of all excursions including recommendations, reservations, and car service (with drivers who just so happened to be the most lovely married couple. They treated our family like their own). The kids spent hours exploring the property, which included two beautiful pools, cascading waterfalls, walking paths through the forest, a pond, and much more. The accommodations are beautiful, private, and extremely comfortable for a large family. We enjoyed horseback riding about 5 minutes from the property and ventured out much further to the natural hot springs at Tabacon and also went zip lining at Selvatura Park in Monteverde - all of which we would highly recommend!! We were sad to leave this beautiful home and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a true getaway!
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Tourists without a Car,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 4/4
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business
Villa Encantada: 40 acre Private Lakefront Nature Preserve
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p22582vb
+506 Cell: 011-506-8706-7079
Volcano Arenal
Lake Arenal
Repeat Guest at Encantada
Submitted: February 26, 2013
Stayed: February 2013
I almost hesitate to tell people how good a vacation at Villa Encantada is so it won't be booked when I want to go again. This was our second stay there and it was as fantastic as we had expected. Glenn has updated the house with new tile and stone in the bathrooms and kitchen-bar area, and the new pools and waterfalls are just amazing. The sound of water and a place to swim right out the back door, or read at the tables or benches located at the pools is a great feature. Sitting at the back of the house and looking towards the pools, waterfalls, and pond, is as close to being in the Garden of Eden I think I will ever experience in my lifetime. As always, Glenn has that "just let me know what you want" attitude to make your stay as good as you want it to be. You can have a fantastic experience and not even leave the property, but Glenn can arrange anything from horseback rides to boat trips on the lake, to hot springs, good eating experiences, you name it. Always cheerful and available, he is also a great reason to stay at Villa Encantada, especially if it is your first visit to Costa Rica. Being from the US, he speaks excellent English and Spanish and knows everyone and all the places to visit, and can help with those arrangements as well. The area at Lake Arenal is the "land of eternal spring", so the temperature is fantastic as well. Not too hot and not too cold and great sleeping weather at night. Birds galore ( we saw six keel billed Toucans at one time in one tree) if you feed them at the feeder at the back of the house. We had very little problem with bugs, and the house is plush even by US standards with a fully equipped kitchen, plenty of room, wonderful bathrooms, and it would be a great place for kids with well marked hiking trails and a really nice stream in addition to the one feeding the pools and waterfalls. The food at the local restaurants runs from four stars to small local "sodas" and the town is about a five minute drive away for groceries, gas and eateries. We like Moya's a lot and everything we had there was great. The house is centrally located for trips to Arenal Volcano (can be seen on the drive into town), the hot springs, or Fortuna, or to Monteverde. We fly into Liberia and it is about a 1-1/2 hour drive to the house. Car rental is straight forward and Glenn can put you in touch with the best rental places. All in all, the "Trip of A Lifetime"-Again. We are two couples, 55-62 years of age.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Owner's Response: Dear Charles and Family,
Thank you so much for taking your valuable time to express your sentiments regarding your 2nd visit to Villa Encantada, and for posting your excellent photos of the villa and grounds.
For myself and our staff there isn't anything more personally rewarding than your 10 Star review as a Repeat Guest. It just doesn't get any better than this and I do share yours (and all) guests reviews with the staff, as they give us all such a wonderful feeling of accomplishment and make us all work even harder to maintain a standard of excellence and to ensure that our guests come away with positive and long lasting memories to be always cherished, and tell friends/family what a special time that was experienced.
The upgrades that you mention are to give our guests all the comfort and luxury that they so richly deserve. You mentioned that I should think about raising our rates after adding so much infrastructure over the years ~~ well.. maybe so, but I haven't raised rates, nor do I intend on doing so anytime in the foreseeable future. In fact, our current rates are the same as they were 11 years ago... honest!
I am excited about our next "project", the building of a 100 ft Water Slide. This should provide lots of fun and thrills for kids (and adults) of all ages. I hope to have it completed by early May 2013.
So, yes ~~ we're still a "work in progress" after 16 years. This is alot of fun for me... the opportunity to meet great folks, make new friends and provide a slice of paradise on our Nature Preserve that you just don't find very often in todays world.
We're looking forward to your next visit amigo. I especially enjoyed taking you out for fishing trip on the Bass Boat.
Hasta Pronto Amigo,
Your Host,
Glenn
Thank you so much for taking your valuable time to express your sentiments regarding your 2nd visit to Villa Encantada, and for posting your excellent photos of the villa and grounds.
For myself and our staff there isn't anything more personally rewarding than your 10 Star review as a Repeat Guest. It just doesn't get any better than this and I do share yours (and all) guests reviews with the staff, as they give us all such a wonderful feeling of accomplishment and make us all work even harder to maintain a standard of excellence and to ensure that our guests come away with positive and long lasting memories to be always cherished, and tell friends/family what a special time that was experienced.
The upgrades that you mention are to give our guests all the comfort and luxury that they so richly deserve. You mentioned that I should think about raising our rates after adding so much infrastructure over the years ~~ well.. maybe so, but I haven't raised rates, nor do I intend on doing so anytime in the foreseeable future. In fact, our current rates are the same as they were 11 years ago... honest!
I am excited about our next "project", the building of a 100 ft Water Slide. This should provide lots of fun and thrills for kids (and adults) of all ages. I hope to have it completed by early May 2013.
So, yes ~~ we're still a "work in progress" after 16 years. This is alot of fun for me... the opportunity to meet great folks, make new friends and provide a slice of paradise on our Nature Preserve that you just don't find very often in todays world.
We're looking forward to your next visit amigo. I especially enjoyed taking you out for fishing trip on the Bass Boat.
Hasta Pronto Amigo,
Your Host,
Glenn
Helpful votes: 5/5
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