Costa Rica - Villa Encantada, Paradise Found – Our Extraordinary Ordinary Life

Our first four nights in Costa Rica were to be spent in the tropical rain forest region near Lake Arenal and Arenal Volcano. We found a private residence, Villa Encantada, on the internet that boasted its own 40 acre eco preserve with miles of private hiking trails. And from all of the pictures we had seen and the reviews we’d read, our expectations were high. Because the three of us didn’t arrive until late Saturday evening, we would have to wait until the morning to explore this place.

Needless to say that when we awoke, we were certainly not disappointed. The house itself was fantastic with plenty of places to lounge about in the fresh tropical, mountain air. Every vantage point had a spectacular view.

Inside was equally beautiful, well decorated, with a lot of useful spaces for the 7 of us. We had 3 bedrooms downstairs, and another bedroom in the loft above. The living spaces were great for hanging out, cooking, and playing cards.

Certainly, the most awe inspiring were the grounds and the eco preserve on which it resided. Visually stunning is about the best adjective we could conjure to describe this paradise. We have all traveled to many beautiful places around the world, but all seem to pale in comparison to what we’ve found here in Costa Rica. I believe that many scholars say that the Garden of Eden was located in the MiddleEast or Africa; we who have stayed here these few days are convinced they are wrong.

Hanging bridge leading to a tiny island on the pond

Lake Arenal in the distance

Two small pools and one main pool with water slide

Beyond the immediate grounds lied miles of moderately groomed hiking trails that took us into the rain forest. Some of the trails followed the river giving great vantage points of several waterfalls. Another trail led down to a direct access to Lake Arenal.

While hiking we saw many fantastic creatures, as well as the most beautiful flora and fauna. Leaf Cutter Ants were particularly fun to watch. They blazed many trails throughout the property all with the mission to carry there yield from harvest to home.