I can't even put into words how incredible this place is. The host reached out to us the day before to set up a meet time to get the keys and a tour. They allowed us to check in a bit early when we arrived. You definitely will want a 4x4 vehicle, as the roads are a bit terrifying at first. You get used to it, don't worry. The host was so pleasant and charming, we appreciated the house tour.As you can see in the photos, this place is absolutely stunning. The view alone is enough to take you to another planet. Other than what is listed already, some things I find worth noting are they provide beach towels, soap for the washing machine, a few pool noodles, a JBL Bluetooth speaker, two yoga mats and there were 4 hammocks at the time. We saw the resident sloth every day in his favorite tree. Not many cool birds, but a few colorful ones. Even a fun racoon guy strolled through the yard one day. Be careful with leaving food out in the kitchen, the ants are relentless. We kept a lot of our food in the fridge. The fridge also provides ice and filtered water that we were able to tolerate (most of the water in CR tastes gross to us).We utilized the host to book private massages at the home and a private chef. Both were fantastic and highly recommend. They will help you book tours as well, if needed. We were so sad to leave. If you are even thinking about this place, hesitate no more! It's a dream.

Everything was just as advertised. Met up with property management to let us in the house and show us around. We were late getting in due to heavy traffic and had to keep pushing back our meeting time but finally made it. What's App was a godsend. Care taker also lives on site. We never new they were there until we needed help. It was great knowing you had someone available. We really enjoyed the outdoor space and pool. It was just beautiful. Would definitely stay again. Thank you for the great house.

Our first visit to Costa Rica, and we have fallen in love with both the country and Villa Ballena Royale!If, like me, you have a slight concern that the amazing reviews and stunning photos are just too good to be true, then I can confirm that they are 100% accurate. The villa itself, and the breathtaking views over Marino Ballena Park, will live in our hearts for the rest of our lives. I can also confirm that the road leading up to the villa is really not a problem, at least in the dry season. I certainly wouldn’t want to walk up it, as it is very steep in places, but with a four-wheel drive SUV I found it relatively easy. Everything about the villa was first class, and I would struggle to find fault with anything. We especially enjoyed the outdoor shower, and the large pool with its perfect water temperature. YouGetHere were friendly and helpful, and the companies that they recommended for airport transfers, car hire and wildlife tours all proved to be excellent.The only slightly disappointing aspect was that we saw much less wildlife in the garden than other reviewers. Nature is unpredictable, but in two weeks all we got to enjoy was two brief visits from a Toucan, and a few fleeting glimpses of Hummingbirds. All of which leaves us with a dilemma – we never go back to places, as you miss the buzz associated with discovering somewhere new. However, we both had such a great time that we can’t think of anywhere else we want to go, and so are already planning to return.

The host is amazing and the house is awesome. The only thing we would change is the road up to the home. Can be a little treacherous. 4x4 is strongly recommended.