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| Details | |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 2 |
| Bathrooms | 1 |
| Sleeps | 4 |
| Cottage | |
| Suitability |
|---|
| Pet Friendly |
| Smoking Allowed |
| Suitable for Children |
| FlipKey traveler rating |
| 27 reviews |
| Stayed here? Write a review. |
Get the real scoop!
All reviews are written by verified travelers
Details
| Rental type | Cottage |
| Minimum Stay | 1 night |
| Living space | 60 square meters |
| Bedrooms | 2 Total |
| Bathrooms | 1 Total |
| Sleeps | 4 |
| Suitability |
Pet friendlyYes Smoking allowedYes Suitable for childrenYes Suitable for the elderlyAsk Wheelchair accessibleNo |
| Theme | Adventure, Budget, Wilderness, Away from it all, Rural, Tropical |
Description from the owner
Our Palma Real cottage is the ideal home base from which to explore the natural attractions of north Guanacaste Province. Located 30 minutes from the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, 20 minutes from Santa Rosa National Park, and less than an hour from several pristine beaches, we are also just 15 minutes from the regional capitol, Liberia, where shops, supermarkets, banks, and restaurants ranging from hamburger stands to fine dining abound.
We have arrangements with local ecotourism operators and can arrange a wide variety of tours as well as transportation to even the most remote sites if needed. Snorkeling, bird-watching, whale-watching,...Read more
Amenities
Location
The Palma Real Cottage
Liberia, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
What's Nearby:
Additional Location Information
From Liberia: Travel North from Liberia 13 km on the Pan-American highway to the intersection with the road to Cañas Dulces. At the intersection keep left on the Pan-American, the entrance to the property is 800m ahead on the right, at the bottom of the hill, through the short stone wall.
From Liberia Airport (LIR): Travel 10 km east to the first stoplight, which will be the main intersection of Liberia. Turn left on to the Pan-American highway and continue with the instructions above.
Location Type Away from it all, Rural, Tropical
Rates
Rates shown in $ USD (change)
| Date | Weeknight | Weekend Night | Weekly | Monthly | Minimum Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate Summary | $80 - $125 | $100 - $125 | $600 - $700 | $2,500 | 1 night |
| Feb. 16 2012 - Jul. 31 2012 High season |
$125 | $125 | $700 | - | 3 nights |
| Aug. 1 2012 - Nov. 30 2012 | $80 | $100 | $600 | - | 3 nights |
| All Other Dates | $125 | $125 | $700 | $2,500 | 1 night |
| Can't find rates for your travel dates? Contact the owner | |||||
Availability
AvailableUnavailable Last updated: May 04, 2013 ◀▶
What Past Guests Are Saying
Overall Rating
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132George
London, CanadaThe best vacation ever
Left on 05/04/2013 for a stay in April 2013
We have never been to Costa Rica before and in a past almost always stayed in resorts so we were a little uneasy how the things will turn out. Well, now I think I can say this was probably our best vacation ever. The property is very well maintained and clean and we were more than happy to enjoy absolute privacy. One of the best features is its accessibility. Located directly on Hwy1 close to Liberia it allows for trips to anywhere, beach or mountains without having to drive several hours on the unpaved roads. The second best feature is Eladio and Vasnessa, the owners. Eladio is very knowleable about his country and all the trips he recommended us were just amazing. We never had a feeling that he is just trying to sell us something like we experienced in some other resorts. He and Vanessa went out of their way to make sure we are satisfied and safe. The only thing we may recommend is if you could have some small shop on the property. While Liberia is just 10 minutes away it would be nice to be able to purchase some small items, like bottle of water or chips, tea, coffee, sugar or soap if people come at night and had no time to visit supermarket. The other thing I would recommend as a driver is to make the entrance from the road a little bit less rough. While for 4x4 car it is no big deal, for some small vehicle the “jump” is little scary.
Eladio and Vanessa, thank you for everything. If we will have a chance we will surely return. -
Joy Emmons
Garnerville NYParadise
Left on 04/06/2013 for a stay in March 2013
We stayed in the 2 floor cabin with two bedrooms with our son's family and had a wonderful week! The hosts (Eladio and Vanessa)and staff make you feel like family! The gracias hostess brought out toys for the grandchildren and sent fruit from their trees for us to enjoy! We loved the pool which is very clean and does not have the bleach smell. As they talked with us by the pool we learned more of Guanacaste. The birds were absolutely beautiful. We saw: White-ringed Fly Catcher, humming birds, green parrots, Blue Crowned Motmot (which is usually only down in Cabo Blanco), Morning Doves, a Baltimore Orial, Blue Grey Tanger, and Bronze head Black Bird.
We went to the Volcano (Vieja)one day but it was closed due to activity. So we walked down the the nearby falls. Absolutely gorgeous. Wear your bathing suit!
Another day we went to a beach near Nicaragua but the water there was too cold due to the Humbult current - like the Gulf stream up North that warms the water, this stream cools the water. I recommend Colebra! It is only 30 minutes away and absolutely beautiful. Bring your bug spray though. Only the mattresses will make you want to go home. They were a little hard, but normal for the area.
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Ingrid
Hasselt, Belgiumpura vida
Left on 04/04/2013 for a stay in March 2013
The cottage is located about 10 km from Liberia in a green environment, with lots of birds and other wildlife.
Eladio gets out of his way to make sure you have a wonderful stay: he drives you to secrets places in the national parks and gives you inside information on where to go, to see the things that interest you. So we got to see howler, white faced and spider monkeys on the same trip. We got to see lots of birds and a few deer and of course iguana's. Another highlight was the waterfall and its pool with blue water, and there also was the natural jacuzzi.
If you need help with anything, Eladio is there to make it happen.
If you want you can have breakfast or an evening meal while you are staying here. But Liberia is not far away and of course Eladio knows a few good local restaurants.
When we go back to Liberia, we know where we will stay: at "Eladio's place".
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lesprosducamping
Montreal, CanadaNous reviendrons
Left on 03/04/2013 for a stay in February 2013
Nous étions 3 couples d'amis. Nous avons loué les 2 maisons en même temps. Nous étions très confortables. L'endroit est idéal, tranquille et pas trop près ni trop loin de Liberia.. Eladio, le proprio nous a fait découvrir des petits paradis perdus dont les bouquins ne parlent même pas. Il est très accueillant et fait tout ce qu'il peut pour notre confort.
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Glori F
Costa RicaComo en casa
Left on 01/08/2013 for a stay in December 2012
Un lugar acogedor, limpio y rodeado de naturaleza. Eladio es un excelente anfitrión y conoce la zona a la perfección. Pasamos una temporada inolvidable.
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Craig
Portland OregonLa Pura Vida
Left on 01/06/2013 for a stay in January 2013
Que Marveoso! Our house, one of three, was fully furnished and very comfortable. Eladio and his family opened their home to us and shared breakfast every morning and a delightful dinner. They were most helpful in suggesting local things to do and see. The pool and outdoor shower were wonderful. They will do anything to make your stay memorable. They gave us towels, chairs and a cooler for the beach. Hiking and exploring the nearby volcano was wonderful. We booked here because we wanted a place close by Liberia airport that was not the crowed resort experience. We did not expect the insight into "Tico" life we received. Eladio and Vanessa are full of life, energy and laughter, We brought our dog with us and She was welcomed and secure. I recommend that anyone flying into Liberia start their vacation here. It is also a great base for exploring this area. The swimming and snorkeling beaches West of La Cruz are only an hour away.
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Caro F
Peschiera del Garda, ItalyExcelente opcion!
Left on 12/30/2012 for a stay in December 2012
Eladio nos atendió de maravilla. No nos faltó nada (solo tiempo para disfrutar mas de este lugar tan lindo!!!) Quedamos encantados!
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Elke
Tega Cay, South CarolinaPura Vida - Amazing place, amazing people!
Left on 12/19/2012 for a stay in December 2012
My husband and I just got back from a wonderful week long stay at Eladio's place. We loved every single moment of it! Eladio and his wife Vanessa welcomed us with open arms and did everything to make our stay not only comfortable, but also memorable.
The property is beautiful with wonderful plants and palm trees and a gorgeous pool.The cottage is lovely and equipped with everything we needed. It was very clean and offered excellent WiFi connection.
We decided not to rent a car and rely on Eladio's transportation instead. He picked us up from the airport and took us to Liberia whenever we needed to buy groceries.
Don't miss out on Eladio's tours! This man loves his beautiful country and he will share his passion with you. He is not your ordinary tour guide, he is your trusted companion and your friend. If you are a nature lover and want to explore this wild and wonderful country off the beaten path, away from the tourist crowds, Eladio is your man! We saw and experienced new and amazing things every single day. From snorkeling at secluded beaches, only accessible by boat, to hikes in the rainforest. From breathtaking waterfalls to the most amazing horseback riding trip ever, every day was a highlight! We were able to see spider monkeys, howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, and the most stunning bird in Costa Rica, the toucan. Eladio has a great knowledge about nature and wildlife and you can learn a lot from him. He showed us the rain forest, cloud forest and dry forest.
We had the wonderful opportunity to camp out overnight at one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, Naranjo beach, Witch's rock. Eladio took us out for a walk at the beach in the middle of the night. There, during a spectacular meteorite shower, a huge sea turtle came to shore to nest and lay her eggs. A truly magical moment!
Thank you, Eladio, for making this week so special for us. Thank you and Vanessa for your warm hospitality!
We will be back!!!
Pura Vida!
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Sue988
Nags Head, North CarolinaPerfect spot for ecotourism
Left on 09/23/2012 for a stay in September 2012
After reading the reviews here, my husband and I canceled our existing reservations in a place near Liberia and decided to stay here. We were delighted with our stay. Eladio is the best feature of this place- he will take good care of you. He was born to do what he does and it shows. His passion and knowledge of Guanacaste have made him a successful Costa Rican entrepreneur, providing lodging and logistical support to tourists, scientists, and various organizations.
Eladio is upstaged though by the amazing Gabriel- his part boy / part fish, fearless and endearing 4 year old son.
Go here for the nearby, less-traveled, spectacular ecotourism.
The mattress is a bit hard, but the pros far outweigh the few cons. -
lynn f
highland park,njnice property, a few things to keep in mind
Left on 08/19/2012 for a stay in August 2012
My family (2 women, 9 year old twins) rented Palma Real for a week earlier this month. The cottage is mostly as advertised and was comfortable for the 4 of us. We were frustrated by a few things:
1. the recently installed aDT security system, which "beeped" about once a minute through the night and then we managed to activate the alarm in the middle of the night while trying to make it stop. Eladio turned off the alarm for the rest of the week but I would ask him for an update before booking. The cottage is in the middle of nowhere, not sure why an alarm system is needed.
2. The wifi access didn't exist in the cottage, so we spent most of the week taking turns sitting in Eladio's kitchen to access the internet. This was a bit uncomfortable for us and also for his family, though they tried to not mind. Eladio bought all sorts of devices to try to improve access in the cottage, but by the end of the week we were still without usable wifi. Again, if wifi is important to you I would ask for an update before booking.
3. We found the two dogs to be intimidating, not cute and playful. They scared us (adults) and they scared our son.
4. We followed Eladio to Playa Naranjo and had a lovely time. For the rest of the week, we went off by ourselves- this worked for our comfort zone.
5. Vanessa is a lovely woman and provided us with a nice plate of pork and rice. Our kids said the pork was really good, we all enjoyed the rice. Moms are vegetarian.
6. Vanessa is happy to do laundry and does a great job. Prior to getting to the cottage, I thought we might have our own washing machine.
7. 10 year old Luke says "overall good, pool was great, good place to sit outside and look at nature- we saw lizards, toads, birds. We rescued really cute little frogs from the shower too. Beds were nice, comfortable overall."
8. Property is 6 miles (12 km) north of Liberia. Good supermarkets in Liberia, but not too many good restaurants. If you are an omnivore, it sounds like you should take advantage of Vanessa's great cooking. -
CubaSO
Deux-Montagnes, CanadaWhat a great place!
Left on 07/26/2012 for a stay in June 2012
We are a family with 2 teenagers, and we wanted to visit Costa Rica otherwise than in those all inclusive hotels. Therefore, we chose Eladio's Place. And what an happiness!
A few kilometers away from Liberia, the Castro family was waiting for us. There was a large ground well maintained by Sergio, some houses very appropriate(clean) and well organized and the swimming pool. Eladio the owner is authentic, his sweet spouse Vanessa, is an excellent cook, Hugo was our private guide for the week. What an expert! We had an incomparable welcome by breakfasts ,plate of fresh fruit, delicious natural juice. Eladio and Hugo took us on Naranjo Beach to Witche's Rock and we practiced surfing. Followed during the week by excursions in forest in some national parks. On the volcano Rincon de la Vieja we visited the famous fall La Cangreja; magic! All this, far from the tourist crowd... We continued our trip but returned to Eladio for the last night before our flight. Everybody came to say goodbye around a costa ricain feast. We were so happy to find friends. The people in Costa Rica are so sympatic.Thanks to all for this warm stay.Response from Eladio Castro M. - 08/07/2012
Owner
THanks friends
WE appreciate a lot your so nice review, thanks for all!
Pura Vida
Eladio Castro -
Bustr2
Dallas, TexasWonderful vacation choice for people who have not been to Costa
Left on 04/07/2012 for a stay in March 2012
During our time in Costa Rica we were escorted by Eladio Castro and Sergio Vega to points of interest in Guanacaste and local dining establishments in Liberia. In the five days that we spent at Palm Real, Eladio and Sergio arranged tours, prepared meals and drove us to and from our destinations. We enjoyed tours to a dry forest with nature trails though volcanic mudpots, a cloud forest with birds and wild animal watching, a sea side hike thru a dry forest and an excursion to witches rock beach. The finale to our vacation was a scuba diving and snorkeling outing with a local dive master. Every day Eladios' beautiful wife, Vanessa, started our day's activities with a Costa Rica breakfast served in our cabin. She then packed lunches for us and often times prepared dinner for us on our return. Visiting Palma Real is like visiting close relatives in the country. Nothing bad happened and we did not have to plan a thing.
This was a fabulous trip which I would recommend to anyone who wishes to visit Costa Rica. Eladio Castro is a wonderful man who could not have worked any harder to ensure our contentment and satisfaction. He is a good storyteller, driver, tour director, and friend who we would love to visit with again. Our English speaking guide, Sergio Vega was a wealth of knowledge about the local animals and has keen eyes and ears for birds which we loved looking for during our multiple walks around the forest. Sergio has a great sense of humor and really entertained us with his stories of the local culture and nature. -
theresaCalgary
calgaryAmazing Hospitality
Left on 03/19/2012 for a stay in February 2012
We stayed at Eladio's place for four nights and loved every minute of it. His property is just lovely and he takes pride in creating a zen environment for his guests. Our daughter had a blast exploring the grounds and looking at all the flora and fauna. The pool was a highlight for us as it was so beautiful and refreshing on warm days. We booked three excursions with Eladio and each day was an adventure. From hiking to secluded waterfalls to exploring the dry and humid forest, each adventure left us in awe of the pure beauty of costa rica!! Eladio's wife prepared home-cooked costa rican meals for us and we felt like we were in heaven!!! She is such an excellant cook and took care of all of our needs. We highly recommend Eladio's place to anyone travelling with children and those looking for some adventure and fun!! We can't wait to return!! Thank you Eladio and family!
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Abdiel
Panama2012 Vacations..
Left on 03/02/2012 for a stay in February 2012
As a professional we always need some time to relax, and get away from the daily stress caused by the work routine.
This year I assigned the task too find a spot for us (6 members family) to my wife..
She definitely pick the right choice.. and we found Eladio´s Place!
Since day one, we were threated like King and Queen.
Eladio make us spent some good times during our 7 days there, with his various tours and activities.
From an exclusive beach where we have a beautiful summer day, to a day on the surrounds of a Volcano, we explore the diversity of the area, and the exclusive spots he offers on his tours..
As I promised, we will definitely return to Eladio´s Place because there is still a lot of things to see and enjoy with one of the best people to deal in the country, when is a matter of unplug yourself from your daily duties.. and have a great time..
We enter as customers and leave as Friends!
Thanks Eladio
abdiel
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Shangann
Austin, TXPura Vida!
Left on 02/13/2012 for a stay in February 2012
My husband and a friend just got back from a 4 day stay at Eladio's place (our friend actually stayed an entire week). Describing our experience as amazing would be an understatement. The hiking, waterfalls, horseback riding, hot springs, pristine beach were all wonderful but Eladio really made our vacation un-forgetful. He acted as our private tour guide - full of enthusiasm every day and very knowledgeable. Made us feel like we were family and provided us with everything we needed. If you're looking for something off the tourist map, this is the place to go. The location is also awesome - didn't take us more than an hour to get anywhere. This is my 3rd trip to Costa Rica (1st time to Liberia) and would highly, highly recommend staying with Eladio. Thanks so much Eladio for making our stay in Costa Rica so wonderful . Pura Vida!
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Susan
New Yorkhome away from home.
Left on 02/02/2012 for a stay in January 2012
Eladio's place really was a home away from home. The first day we arrived he was there to great us with open arms like we were family. helped carry our luggage and drove us straight to the beach where we saved baby sea turtles (on my bucket-list). we met his wife & kids and had a wonderful "costa rican" dinner. we also met a group of students who were also staying with Eladio, but camping at the beach. they were all very nice. after dinner, we were driven back to the villa while we gazed at the stars (they were huge!!) the following day we did an excursion (zip line, hot spring, mud bath...) which didn't amount to what Eladio had shown us later that week. he took us on a hike to rincon de la vieja, and we saw monkeys, mud holes and other nature-y things. then he took us on a private tour to a waterfall that normally takes 2hrs to hike, but took us only 20mins. unfortunately on my way there i fell & hurt myself, but Eladio was there to help me. i still hiked the rest of the way, and im glad i did. the waterfall was gorgeous. the water was refreshing and there was even a tiny pool filled with warm water from a hot spring! even after we got back to the villa he was watching over me & my injured leg, provding me ice and ace band.
everything is a short drive away, even taking the bus to the beach is a breeze. the stores accept all major credit cards & american cash for those who chose not to exchange their money. basically, the man is amazing. Whatever tour he suggest, do it. i wish we had known better & in advance to take him up on other tours, but live and learn. and now we know for the next time. the man knows what he's doing, and loves his job. and we love the energy he puts out. staying with him and his family was a blessing. thank you Eladio for all of your help & for providing us with everything we needed and more. we hope to see you and your beautiful family again some time soon!
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Jenna
New York, NY2,000 character review is not enough
Left on 01/22/2012 for a stay in January 2012
The property is quaint, tranquil, and gorgeous. The house we stayed in was equipped with cooking equipment, dishes, eating utensils and bath towels. The hot water supply was only so-so but it didn't matter because it was 90°F out anyway. It was very comfortable. We found ourselves hanging out on the hammock and benches near the pool every night. We got better wifi connection there than from our house (Although, my friend with the iphone got decent connection from the house). It is located about half an hour from the airport and it is conveniently located to be close enough to many sites, such as Rincon de la Vieja.
Trust Eladio to be your personal tour guide. He and his family are amazing. Eladio is full of life and really lives by the Costa Rica motto, "Pura Vida!” He is very passionate about his country and all that it has to offer. He is very well known and very well liked in his community and thus he takes you to locations that no other pre paid trip excursion can take you. On the day we arrived he picked us up from the airport and after settling in he took us to Playa Naranjo where we saved sea turtles and watched those baby turtles crawl their way into the ocean. On the day before we left, he brought us on a hike where we saw some monkeys, extremely old trees, fumaroles, and waterfalls. Before setting off on this nature walk though, we were invited to his house for breakfast where his beautiful wife cooked up rice, eggs, and maduros for us. She filled our bellies with deliciousness before embarking on a few hour long hike. A wonderful and hospitable family. We much preferred Eladio's company over our prepaid excursion we found online. Eladio is more personal, and you can tell he loves it.
Their dogs, a chocolate lab, Kooper, and a smaller mutt, Chicky, were friendly just like the family.
Thanks you so much Eladio for a great experience. Please come visit us in New York!
Pura Vida!
Jenna
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Xio86
60763Pura Vida- Completely Relaxation Spot
Left on 01/22/2012 for a stay in January 2012
I stayed at Eladio's from Jan 17-21. It was such a pleasant and relaxing stay! I work for an airline which allows me the opportunity to travel a lot. I have tried all inclusive resorts and I wanted something different. Costa Rica has so much to offer which is why I opted for the villa rental with my friends. It was all we needed and expected. We wanted something economical but safe and clean! It was perfect! We had our own pool and sun deck. It was very close to everything. If you would like to take tours, Eladio also offers them! We tried an all day activity tour which included zip lining, horseback riding, and hot spring pools. It was pleasant but it was nowhere near as pleasant as the private tour Eladio gave us. He definitely made our trip exciting! Picked us up from the airport and took us straight to the beach. That was only the beginning of an awesome vacation. All thanks to him! Thanks Eladio!!!
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Angie R
London, OntarioYoung children like better than Disney!
Left on 01/09/2012 for a stay in January 2012
Our 4 and 6 year old would rather 4X4 with Eladio into Santa Rosa to see the sea turtles make their way out to see than go back to Disney World! We absolutely loved all that Eladio (and his family) offered us with their authentic tours and cooking, we couldn't have asked for a better experience while travelling with small children. The accommodations were clean and comfortable, and the tours with Eladio are an absolute must - no need to rent a car when you have your own personal chauffeur on-site. We plan to go back, and are thankful our children experienced the rugged and beautiful side of Costa Rica we would never have been able to give them on our own. Pura Vida!!
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travelling_biologist
CanadaSerene oasis only minutes from Liberia with access to Santa Rosa
Left on 01/06/2012 for a stay in March 2011
My husband and I were traveling in Costa Rica and my parents joined us for part of our trip. We wanted to stay somewhere near Santa Rosa National Park as we wanted to spend some time there early in the morning before it gets too warm. We stayed in the Palma Real Cottage. It is a brand-new two-bedroom cottage, with one bedroom with a double bed and one bedroom with twin beds. It also has a small living space with a television and a small, fully-equipped kitchen. The house has beautiful woodwork throughout and all of the wooden furniture is handmade by a local artisan. Everything was clean and the air conditioning worked perfectly. The house has a nice porch with a hammock, and right next to the house is a beautiful swimming pool surrounded by palm trees. This is a very birdy spot. We could hear birds singing all day and we saw several species flying about. Great-tailed grackles often landed near the pool to steal a sip of water in the heat of the day.
Eladio Castro, the owner, lives with his family in a separate house on the property. (Note that there is also a larger cottage available for rent on the property that can sleep up to 6 people). Eladio can provide home-cooked Costa Rican meals or you can easily cook for yourself in the cottage. The entire property is very well landscaped and Eladio has clearly put a lot of effort into planting shrubs, trees, and flowers. It is located about 10 minutes north of Liberia, right off the Pan american Highway. Liberia is quite a busy town and there are few good options for accommodations there. This place feels like a little bit of paradise in contrast. It is also a great location for accessing Santa Rosa National Park, which is about 15 minutes further north on the highway. Santa Rosa is a great place to see wildlife. Even though this tropical dry forest might look quite different from a typical tropical forest, this actually makes it easier to see wildlife. The forest is not nearly as dense as rainforest, especially in the dry season from December to May, and one can usually spot troupes of howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, and spider monkeys, as well as passels of coatis, deer, and a great diversity of bird species. But go early to avoid the heat! The location also provides great access to volcanoes and cloud forest (Rincon de la Vieja National Park) and of course all the beaches on the Pacific coast.
One of the best parts of staying at Palma Real is having Eladio as a host. You can have as little or as much involvement from him as you like, but I recommend taking full advantage of Eladio’s services. He can pick you up from the airport, which I highly recommend, and for a fee he can drive you wherever you need to go, so you could easily make do without a car. He’s got a powerful 4WD vehicle that can go anywhere. Eladio also offers a diversity of tours. He is a well-known surfing guide in the area and can take you to one of the best surfing beaches in the world (Witch’s Rock, which is otherwise very difficult to access). He also teaches surfing lessons if you’ve always wanted to try. You can go for the day or camp on the beach – he has all the equipment necessary for camping. Another tour Eladio offers is hiking up Rincon de la Vieja Volcano to the crater at the summit. This requires some level of fitness, but the hike is absolutely breathtaking. It involves first hiking through rainforest, then cloud forest, then open areas atop old lava flows, which provide stunning vistas of the surrounding volcanoes and forests. There is a beautiful waterfall en route, which provides a great spot to stop for a rest and a bite to eat. On the way back down, you are rewarded by a divine soak in hot springs surrounded by rainforest. This is a private property and you’ll likely be the only ones there. There are other great hiking trails in Rincon de la Vieja National Park that can take you to boiling mud pots, waterfalls, or another route up to the crater. Eladio also offers snorkeling tours on secluded beaches near Santa Rosa National Park, away from touristy areas where you’ll have the place to yourselves. He can also take you on a day trip to Nicaragua and on numerous other tours – just ask! Eladio is very dependable, and aside from occasionally staying at Palma Real, we regularly rely on him to drive us around to areas that are otherwise difficult to access. I know that some of the Santa Rosa National Park staff and professors teaching field courses often rely on Eladio to drive students around to various different biological stations in the area. He has also had documentary film crews from Japan and France stay at Palma Real and rely on his tour services. Eladio is very passionate and knowledgeable about surfing and about wildlife, so you can expect to learn a lot from interacting with him. He is also one of the kindest people I know, and you will likely leave Costa Rica having made a true friend.
If you are looking for a charming and quiet place to stay that provides access to some of the best natural areas Costa Rica has to offer, I highly recommend the Palma Real Cottage. If you are looking for a real Costa Rican nature adventure, hire Eladio as a tour guide! I have traveled extensively in Costa Rica and both the accommodations and the tours provide excellent value for your money. -
Ryan
Toronto, Ontario, CanadaPlanning to go Back!
Left on 10/03/2011 for a stay in February 2011
We stayed at this location for a few days. Eladio, his family and his staff were all friendly and helpful. Everyone there went well beyond my expectations. Our rooms, the facilities and the grounds were spotless. Everyday we were served with authentic Costa Rican food.
Eladio was also our tour guide. He took us surfing, we climbed a mountain, we stood under a 30 foot water fall, we even watched baby sea turtles make their way to the sea...
Eladio is a very passionate about life and the quality of his service. He is well known throughout the city, which helped us get exclusive bargains and experiences.
My only regret is not staying there longer.
"Pura Vida!"Response from Eladio Castro M. - 10/03/2011
Owner
Hi Ryan,
Many thanks for your review, Pura Vida!!!
Regards
Eladio Castro -
Marcus
CanadaMy home away from home
Left on 09/29/2011 for a stay in February 2011
Dear reader,
If you're looking for a truly authentic Tico experience, I highly recommend Eladio and his services. The housing available is spacious and clean with some of the most incredible homecooked meals and at an affordable price. The gallo pinto and palm heart salad is so good. Eladio is also one of the most trusted and experienced guides in the region. It is highly recommended that you make use of his guide services as he will take you off the tourist track to some of the most exotic and least accessible areas in the region regardless of the season. Whether it's camping on a beach, surfing Witches Rock,snorkelling a reef, swimming under a waterfall, or climbing a volcano, Eladio and his small team of trusted staff (plus a myriad of local connections) will make sure you reach your destination safely and with full provisions. Simply ask and Eladio will do his best to accommodate. Pura Vida. -
Milay Guevara
san joseRelaxing
Left on 09/26/2011 for a stay in April 2011
It is an excellent place for relax, near downtown Liberia, the international airport, volcanoes and all the beaches in Guanacaste, at very reasonable prices
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David & Mila
Portland, OregonGreat stay at Eladio's
Left on 09/23/2011 for a stay in February 2011
We had a wonderful stay at Eladio's. Not fancy but quiet comfortable. The swimming pool is the best feature. Four couples -- all septagenarians -- rented both houses. Eladio also spent a day guiding us through the national park and to Playa Narranja.
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crg
San Jose Costa RicaBest starting point for Santa Rosa Natl. Park and Witches Rock
Left on 09/20/2011 for a stay in July 2011
About ten miles north from Liberia on the Interamerican Highway, this is the perfect place to get ready to visit and enjoy Guanacaste's wonderful northern National Parks (Santa Rosa, Murcielago, Guanacaste). Just 45 minutes from Rincon De la Vieja Volcano and about one hour from Playa Naranjo. Also close to the northern beaches of Junquilla and Bahia Salinas, much less corwded than Coco, Tamarindo and Samara!
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Philly Bio Prof
PhiladelphiaHome away from home
Left on 09/19/2011 for a stay in June 2011
My wife and I stayed at Eladio's Palma Real cottage in June of 2011. I work nearby in Santa Rosa National Park, the wife was visiting for a week while I had some meetings in the park. The house is very nice with a fully equipped kitchen, the pool is great and there are tons of nice areas to just lounge around with a book. The experience feels like as much of a homestay as a hotel, if you aren't into interacting with the family every day this might not be for you.
The location is great if you are into exploring the natural attractions of the Guanacaste area, its close to Liberia but away from bustle, and centrally located to Santa Rosa, Playa Naranjo, and Rincon de la Vieja.
I've worked with Eladio for many years with student groups, and he has good connections with a number of other local, small-scale, tour operators and hotels. These are fantastic trips that are definitely off the beaten tourist path, and are the places that I take my students (and family members and friends) to see when they are in NW Costa Rica.
I would recommend the house particularly for Naturalists/ Bird-watchers, people who want to interact with the locals, anyone who likes to get away from the main tourist spots and explore the nooks and crannies of the places they visit. -
Manuel & Emmanuelle & Family
Punta UvaCan't beat Eladio's Place for adventure Ecotourism!
Left on 09/19/2011 for a stay in July 2011
We met Eladio last year on a surfing trip into Santa Elena National Park - as he is the only person on earth capable of dring down the 13 km mudpath down the beach during the rainy season. True to his reputation, he took us all the way down, through rivers, deep mud, steep trails...etc.
Having remembered a legend, I decided to return to see Eladio this year with my family. It was not our intention to do the same, but he offered us a ride down to the Witches Rock at Santa Elena National Park so that the family could get to know a truly magical place that few in the world ever get to know. The previous night, we stayed in one of the family bungalows and found it very clean, comfortable, private and just prefect for a small family. There is a large swimming pool nearby the house - great for kids at the end of the day. The bungalows a re nice, but you would be completely missing out on the experience if you don't hire Eladio for a tour of the nearby parks, volcanoes, coral reefs, or a surfing trip. There simple is no alternative to a passionate and very knowledgeable tour guide that promises to offer an experience you simply can't find with anyone else.
Eladio, you are our hero - and it would be a crime not to stay and experience Northern Guanacaste with out you! Thank you for being you and only you!
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