Entire cabin

A Station In your Life Path You Will Never Forget And Will Be Wanting To Return

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December 2024
January 2025

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Property grounds
3 bedrooms, desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior
Property grounds
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire cabin

3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10149 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Gym
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
La Flor, Paraiso de Cartago / Cartago
  • Ruins of Ujarras
    13 min drive
  • Casa del Soñador
    15 min drive
  • Mirador Orosi
    16 min drive
  • San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.)
    107 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

About the area

Santiago

In Santiago .Within 6 miles (10 km) of this Santiago cabin, you'll find Ruins of Ujarras and Casa del Soñador. Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Limpia Concepción is within 6 miles (10 km) and Mirador Orosi is within 9 miles (15 km).

What's nearby

  • Ruins of Ujarras - 13 min drive
  • Our Lady of the Angels Basilica - 20 min drive
  • Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles - 20 min drive
  • Irazu Volcano National Park - 47 min drive
  • Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu - 52 min drive

Getting around

  • San Jose Curridabat Station - 38 min drive
  • San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.) - 95 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bocadito del Cielo - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante La Casona del Cafetal - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪La Posada de la Luna - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Mírador Valle Nuevo - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Pizzeria peperonni - ‬16 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

A Station In your Life Path You Will Never Forget And Will Be Wanting To Return

I am an environmental engineer and my wife is a nurse who chose beautiful Costa Rica as a place to retire and gather with family, friends and visitors. Our station provides a peaceful environment where you can relax, commune with nature, nurture your inner life, renew energy, interact with locals, experience organic farming, enjoy healthy delicious produce right from the garden in a lovely setting that is off the beaten track for most tourists.

In English, Estacion Descansos means Station of Rest. You will love the pure air and year-round, spring-like temperature, with mornings and evenings in the upper 60's and 80's in the afternoon. Get ready for a light blanket at night with no need for air conditioning. Birds that surround the Station provide spectacular morning and afternoon concerts. The view from the main deck is breath-taking -- across a valley and Cachi Lake to a verdant mountain ridge 20 miles away. At night, the valley twinkles with lights from small settlements.

The cabin has three levels, each level with a private bath. The total sleeping capacity of the station is 10 people; 4 on the lower level, 4 on the upper level and 2 on the central level. The dining and living areas are located in the central level as well as the main balcony and the kitchen which is part of the main balcony; allowing you to cook looking at the Cachi lake. The upper level has a small balcony (capacity of 4) for you to relax in the middle of nature.
Superior quality water comes from the municipal aqueduct. Estacion Descansos has its own wastewater treatment plant as well as a complete rain water collection and distribution system for watering plants and minor cleaning. Laundry facility is also available but if you do not want to do it yourself, Irma, a local, will do it for you. Irma could also take care of the cleaning and cooking. Irma charges a hourly rate of $1500 colons which is equivalent to US$2.75. We grow organic produce including tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, green beans, celery, coriander, and more that depending on the season, you can pick, cook and enjoy.

Ricardo, a local, takes care of the daily duties to maintain the station. Ricardo will welcome you and provide guidance about the Estacion as well as things you may need like towels, plates, silverware and so on.
Adjacent to the house is a beautiful kiosk for meditation, yoga, tai chi or simply a good book and a nap in a hammock. The house has Wifi as well as a Bluetooth speaker so you can play music from your computer or mobile device.

At the Estación, you can enjoy teas and aromatic herbs to improve digestion, relieve stress and stimulate sleep. You can harvest most of them right by the porch. Depending on the season, you can blend fresh fruit juice from oranges, bananas, lemon, lulo and mandarins that grow on the property. Aloe Vera (sabila) is planted by the kiosk. Ricardo, the property manager, can show you how to harvest the sabila to get the gel out to enhance your fruit juice. He can also advise you on the properties of various herbs for tea.

Descansos works closely with people from the local community of La Flor to provide additional services to visitors, such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, haircuts, transportation and so on

Descansos abuts Finca La Flor, our great neighbor. For a reasonable fee or donation, you can enjoy various activities at this organic farm and educational community, including Spanish classes, horseback rides, cooking, walking in the forest, meditating in a natural bamboo circle, feeding the horses, cows, goats, ducks and chickens. With a reservation, you can also take communal meals at Finca La Flor. Also, you can enjoy delicious dishes prepared at the farm, such as fresh salads, whole bread, goat cheese, etc. Additional information could be provided upon request. Please visit us at

The Cartago Province and surrounding area offers many opportunities for interesting day trips, including the summit of Irazu (Costa Rica's highest volcano), national parks, thermal springs, water rafting, zip lining, coffee plantation tour and more. It is a region not yet over- run by tourists so you get an authentic Tico experience with restaurants and markets charging local prices.
Descansos is a perfect place to vacation, rest, recover from medial tourism or simply enjoy one Costa Rica's most amiable, undiscovered settings.

PURA VIDA

Property manager

Mauricio Guerrero

Languages

English, Spanish

Property amenities

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking
  • Car recommended

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Spices
  • Blender
  • Electric kettle
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room
  • Dining room

Entertainment

  • Games
  • Music library
  • Books

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Washing machine
  • Near laundromat

Work spaces

  • Desk

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 1 total (up to 50 lbs per pet)
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas

Services and conveniences

  • Chef

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital

Things to do

  • Fitness center
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 1600 sq ft (149 sq m)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 10
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Parties and events (including family gatherings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

A Station In your Life Path You Will Never Forget And Will Be Wanting To Return Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 21 out of 24 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 24 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 24 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 24 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lura D.

Liked: Cleanliness
A beautiful spot in the clouds
We loved this property and I only wish we had more time. The host and the caretaker were responsive. Excellent bird watching in the mornings. Fresh guava to eat off the trees. We had two dinners at the farm next store and they were delicious! A lovely stay and my only wish is we had more time. Ricardo was super friendly and very helpful. A bit tricky to find but excellent directions. I hope to go back some day.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbra M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Maney review
The view from the back deck was beautiful. Near to volcanos and other activities. The organic farm next door always offers an meal three times a day for a good price. Owners were very communicative and helpful for surrounding activities in the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Belinda H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical Costa Rica
Wow. Wow, wow, Mauricio's place was amazing. The absolute perfect setting to enjoy and take in the stunning views.Mauricio has an amazing asset in Ricardo. His kindness and helpfulness were second to none, he went above & beyond. Mauricio's property was the epitome of rest & relaxation. We will definitely return to Cartago and this amazing property when we vist Costa Rica again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marcy B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Farm Stay
This was a beautiful property with plenty of room. The manager on site was very kind and went out of his way to assist us.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katarina V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Rustic/beautiful
The house is prettier in person than on pictures and the view is magnificent! We never tired of the porch, looking out on the mountains. Ricardo was very helpful.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kathy B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Enjoyed our stay
We enjoyed our stay and Ricardo was super helpful ! Thanks so much for the hospitality!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jeanne J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect retreat from a busy life
The space had everything we needed with comfort and beauty. The property manager, Ricardo, was helpful and went the extra mile to be sure we had everything we needed and wanted. We enjoyed a tour of the farm and meals made by his wife. We will likely return!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brett V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing views
The property was beautiful. Surrounded by a working farm and views of the valley below. We loved the outdoor kitchen and the balconies. Plenty of space for our family. Everything was very clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

8/10 Good

Ed G., Manhattan, KS, USA

Amazing
This was by far the most interesting of any place we have stayed at over the years. Keep in mind, this house is on a working farm. It is not a luxury get away. It is a bit rustic which makes it all the more fun for everyone. Maurice was not able to be in site but was always quickly available on WhatsApp. We arrived late at night and thankfully had a driver, Rafael, take part of our group in a van to the house. We had rented two cars and followed very closely behind. Would have been challenging to find the place at night without him. Ricardo met us at the house and welcomed us. We had made arrangements for his wife, Abby, to have a small snack waiting for us. We also had her prepare a traditional local breakfast for the next day. We quickly feel in love with their family and now have many fond memories. ❤. Our 4 grandkids ages 9,9 11, and 13, love to help and work. Quickly 2 of them went up to the adjoining farm and helped out Teresa with tending to the farm animals. Feeding, cleaning stalls, grinding feed, gathering eggs, milking goats, etc. The other two boys went out and helped Ricardo in the massive organic garden. Lots to see in the area. Some challenging roads but for us 4x4 bit needed. Abby made several meals for us and all were good traditional meals. We had them over one evening for dinner where the three ladies teamed up and we taught her how to make lasagne. So fun. We were truly sad to leave them. We had little gifts for their two kids and with tears in my wife's eyes left. We have stayed at much fancier places, but none as memorable as this.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Charsey P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely farmhouse
Cool temperatures, lovely views and fun house. We had a great stay. We were 6 adults and a 5 year old and it was the perfect space. I loved the outside kitchen.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Gabriel m.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice
Me and my husband really enjoyed our time at this location but because a couple of our children had a phobia of spiders we could not fully enjoy our entire stay, but we plan on returning without the kids. Everything and everyone was great.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Keith B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent property.
Excellent. The house is open and roomy. It is well built and clean. The area is quiet. Excellent air flow which means air conditioning is not needed. Great view of the valley below and the mountains in the distance. Loved the outdoor kitchen and dining area.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sonya F., Salem, oregon

Liked: Cleanliness
Great house!
Quiet, relaxing and great view, we enjoyed our stay and Ricardo was very helpful 😁
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Richard K.

great place
We really enjoyed staying there and wish we could have stayed longer! Comfortable, convenient to the other attractions in the area, and beautiful grounds. We especially enjoyed eating outside on the covered porch and watching the birds and horses. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Excellent rest
A beautiful place to rest and admire the landscape both in the day and at night. Excellent care by the manager, all services were ready and the farm with their animals we loved. I recommend it 100%. Thank you very much for this beautiful option.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

david s.

Top notch
The house was in fabulous shape, the caretaker Ricardo was very attentive and the valley view was spectacular. WiFi worked well, kitchen well equipt.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

stephanie h., Ohio

Heaven on Earth
There is not enough time to share all the AMAZING things about this house!!! The view of the valley is definitely on top of the list! The outside kitchen, the ample sleeping and multiple bathrooms! The quaint town you travel through to get to the house and on and on!!!! Ricardo was there to greet us and called to check on us during our stay. We absolutely loved this place and the only thing wrong with it was we don’t own it!!!!! Franciso the owner did tell us we were welcome to return! One day we will!!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jose A., Heredia, Costa Rica

Amazing experience!
The place is spotless, it has an amazing view! The beds are very comfortable, super well use of space. It’s a fantastic place! Both Ricardo and Mauricio are super nice; we interacted more with Ricardo who goes out of his way to make sure you have all you need and have a great stay. Would definitely come back!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2019

8/10 Good

Rodrigo C.

Beautiful and cozy log cabin with a wonderful view
Amazing view, beautiful cabin, very comfortable, great for a quiet and resting stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Diana M.

After an incredible drive (so steep) this mountain location is fantastic.
Beautiful views. Definitely arrange the food from the local organic farm on the property!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2018

8/10 Good

John P.

A comfortable cabin in a tranquil, beautiful setting
We (an extended family of 9, including 4 children ages 6-15) had the cabin for a week. It's rated for 10, but with 9 we had to use a hide-a-bed sofa . Not sure where we would have put a tenth. We did most of our own cooking & the kitchen was well-enough equipped for our needs. The main kitchen is outside the house, on the deck. There is a remnant kitchen in a corner of the great room, but we didn't use it at all. It looks like they needed the inside living space, so moved the kitchen to the deck. We cooked there & ate there. The inside was basically used only for sleeping & some kids' play. One thing to be aware of with food preparation outside: creatures will be alert to any food left where they can get it. So we found it essential to move all food either into the refrigerator or inside the house, either during the night, or when we were away during the day. Vegetable scraps went into a compost bin 2-3 times daily. The only hot water is in the showers, where an electrical coil heats the water as it comes out the nozzle. There's no hot water in the kitchen, which was a problem for dishwashing. We dealt with that by using a plug-in water pitcher several times during each dishwashing session. The Station is in a cooperative organic gardening arrangement with a small organic farm next door. This makes for wonderful fresh produce daily, and gave us a place to dispose of our vegetable & fruit waste. Although the location is quite rural, we found it easy to get to a variety of attractions in Cartago province. We also had a longer day in San José & an all-day trip to Cahuita, on the Caribbean coast. We shopped for food daily in the course of our outings. From the deck we had a magnificent view of the Orosi Valley. Overall we would recommend the Estación Descanso for a family that wants a low-key, off-the-beaten track holiday in a beautiful setting. This is the anti-resort. We were assuredly not roughing it, but we were taking care of ourselves.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2017