Notes from the host
Casa Buena Vista In Pejibaye
Sitting high in the southern Pacific mountains of Costa Rica, this gem of a home offers stunning sunrises, a beautiful river and ponds, the sounds of tropical birds and howler monkeys, and seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables. Hike to the mountain top and take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, or stroll to the nearby river for a refreshing swim. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the huge family sized rocks, or better yet have some delicious empanadas delivered to you at the river. When you get back, settle into the hammock with a cool tropical drink. After all, this is your vacation!
Casa Buena Vista has 2 bedrooms, one queen bed and one full, and one comfortable bathroom with shower and endless hot water. The kitchen is stocked with most items you will need, but please contact us if you have questions. You can place an order for a home cooked meal to arrive at your doorstep, and for fresh fruits, vegetables and other foods to be delivered weekly. We even have pizza delivery!
Casa Buena Vista has been enjoyed by guests from Texas, Michigan, Virginia, Ohio and several other states, as well as Sweden, Belgium, Austria, Russia, Argentina, Canada, The Netherlands and more, and their reviews speak volumes (see below). Spending time here is a great way to get away from the typical tourist scene of Costa Rica, and a short drive down the mountain brings you to beautiful, uncrowded beaches. The area is loaded with outdoor activities, such as canopy tours, waterfalls, deep sea fishing and river rafting. A variety of tours of local attractions are available. Four wheel drive is needed to access this unspoiled location, but the drive is well worth it. Though the location is a naturalist's paradise, clothing outside the home is not optional. ; )
The community of Serenity Mountain Village is tucked away in the Pacific mountains about 4 hours south of SJO airport, but it's a short 25 minute drive to the town of Pejibaye with grocery and hardware stores, gas and car repair, and local restaurants. 40 minutes down the beach road brings you to the unique town of Ojochal with many great restaurants. Beautiful nearby beaches that are rarely crowded are also 40-45 minutes away. The busy town of San Isidro del General is also just over an hour's drive. Bus service from San Isidro del General serves the small town of Zapote just 15 minutes from the community.
4WD car rental is available at Hertz in Uvita. Tell David you are a Casa Buena Vista de Pejibaye referral for a special rate! Need additional assistance? Let us know!
High Speed internet is included, along with television and DVD player. A Firestick that provides access to a wide range of programming can be checked out for use. For Netflix, bring your username and password.
Some guest feedback:
"We can definitely recommend this place to everyone who is looking for pure nature and real Costa Rica! After an adventurous drive from the coast up to casa buena vista (make sure you go with 4WD) we got to a beautiful house with a stunning view wich even exceeded our expectations. Todd and Jill were perfect hosts! They had a lot of insider information for our hole trip and secret spots close to the village and helped us whenever they could. The garden is full of fruits and herbs and they are growing like crazy! Casa buena vista is a clean, cosy and fully equipped house with a marvelous view, even out of the bed. All in all the 4 of us had 3 wonderful days and are looking forward to come back some time! Pura vida!" Julia (Austria), December 2016
"Todd and Jill have an awesome home in a spectacular setting. If you're looking for a slice of Costa Rica set aside from the standard, tourism-focused areas then look no further. Their community is nestled in the mountains where you are surrounded by scenic views (including an incredible front porch sunrise view) and wildlife. Mornings at Casa Buena Vista greet you with a chorus of bird songs and the occasional howler monkey grunt/hoot. Todd and Jill were helpful and communicative all the way through our experience. When we booked we were contacted quickly and they insisted that we ask questions if we had them (at any time). During our stay, they were also extremely helpful in identifying things to do in the area. For instance, Todd told us about a breath-taking river with an awesome swimming hole; this place is just minutes away from the house. We wanted to go to the river at a time when Todd and Jill were unavailable, so he even arranged for his buddy guide us down there. Getting to Casa Buena Vista was an adventure. Make sure to have a 4x4 vehicle. You can make it with if you go that are a couple spots that will make you question your cars ability and your sanity. Luckily, Todd gives excellent directions. This was consistent. Whatever happens, trust Todd's directions. Also, keep in mind that when you finally make it to Casa Buena Vista there is a fantastic treat waiting for you...DELICIOUS HOMEBREW!" Zach (Virginia), January 2017
"Casa Buena Vista has been for us a life changing experience! If anyone is looking to know what Pura Vida means, it is definitely the place to go! The casa had everything we needed and was very neat!The hosts (Todd, Jill, Toby and of course the guard : Mousha the dog!) are perfect! They gave us plenty tips about what to do, eat or see in the region. This is a perfect spot to go if you want to be far from the crowd and find serenity. The views from the deck is breathtaking! Make sure to rent a 4x4 to get there, the road is surprisingly funny to ride! But be aware: it is possible you might stay there and never come back!! Casa Buena Vista is definitely a must in Costa Rica! Thank you again amigos for everything!" Patrick (Quebec, Canada), January 2018
"After a couple days removed from Casa Buena Vista it is hard to put into words our experience there. For starters our hosts, Todd, Jill and Toby are amazing and passionate about what they are doing there and it is very contagious. Our experience though, was more then just the great host. The space was perfect with amazing views and sunrises. To be able to experience the mountain and surrounding areas made the whole trip fantastic. The rivers, sunrises, waterfalls and beaches within reach made it a very memorable trip. As one other reviewer mentioned, the drive alone was an adventure. We do believe 4wd is required as the final 10 kilometres up the mountain road does have low spots and rough terrain in many places but for us it was well worth it for the amazing views and relaxation we were exposed to." John and Julie (Alberta, Canada), February 2018
"This was one of the most amazing stays I've had amongst anywhere I've been in my life. Todd and Jill were phenomenal hosts, and we (my friend and I) enjoyed their conversation as much as the scenic hikes, the breath-taking views and the diverse wildlife. They were speedy and extremely helpful with all our needs and requests which added to the degree of ease we enjoyed during our stay. The village is in a beautiful location. It's remote location is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and get away from the hustle and bustle of city living. It allows for an intimate connection with nature, and within a few days we were feeling completely rejuvenated and at peace. The drive up was quite an adventure! I might suggest making the drive during the day (as I attempted to arrive in the dark which was slightly terrifying and incredibly humbling). All-wheel drive (4×4) is a must! All in all, the stay was amazing! I'll never forget my time spent at Casa Buena Vista, and I look forward to visiting again many times in the future! If you're looking to reconnect with yourself and/or with nature, this is the spot for you!" Jesse (Pennsylvania), February 2018
"Todd is a great host, always quick to reply and guide us to nearby spots to visit, he let us make a couple of stops for groceries on the way up too, super thankful for that since we didn't have a car. The house is beautiful, comes with a full kitchen and everything worked perfectly. The beds/ pillows were comfortable and we really enjoyed our time here. The view over the mountains is amazing we took so many pictures!" Celeste (Florida), February 2018
"Our family of 4 had a truly magical and memorable stay at Casa Buena Vista. Hard to cover all the highlights, but will try. Todd and Jill are personable and very helpful hosts, they go above and beyond. Their son is also a great part of the team and also super friendly and knowledgeable. Our kids became fast friends!! The view is mezmorizing and we greeted it every day with amazement (Even our last day, after a 31 day stay). Each night we would go to bed looking forward to waking to the sound of birds, watching the sun rise over the mountain from the deck while enjoying locally sourced coffee. Yoga on the veranda was epic as well as soothing hot tubs! The sky scape was ever changing and incredible. We saw several Toucans and many other beautiful birds. There is a nearby river with several small waterfalls and the best swimming hole (locals call it La Bota). The house is modern, comfortable and well appointed. We would highly recommend a stay here. As others have noted, the drive to the house is along a bumpy gravel/dirt road that should be done in 4x4. A little nerve racking the first time but you get used to it. If you are up for a authentic experience to see Costa Rica's true beauty. This place is for you! It's a breath of fresh air from the tourist track not to be missed. Our favorite rental in every way! We really hope to return one day." Rosie (California), December 2018
