Villa Kristina Apartments

From the outside Villa Kristina looks like an enormous luxury villa built into a steep cliff, with the jungle on three sides, overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the distance. This is a spot for those who want peace and quiet, as there's nothing in the vicinity aside from some private, gated homes and a rutted road that can be difficult to traverse. There isn't a lobby or even a reception desk, and what looks like the main gate actually leads into an apartment. Down a flight of stairs is the communal infinity-edge pool and hot tub. Garden grounds are lush and well-kept, and monkeys, sloths, and iguanas are regular visitors. Guests are a mix of families and couples who prefer to stay off-the-beaten path. Be warned that Kristina has a small and friendly dog that barks at almost every noise. 

Depending on your comfort levels with driving, getting to Villa Kristina Apartments is an adventure or a chore. It's located on an isolated stretch of rutted, winding road with little else in the neighborhood. On our visit, we attempted to drive past the hotel and to Playa Macha but the steep cliffs and hanging vines in the unpaved road deterred us; past guests have reported success in accessing the sand after a long walk. In the rainy season, taxi drivers won't pick up or drop off at the apartments unless they have four-wheel drive. However, the location is gorgeous and rife with native flora and fauna. Expect a 12-minute drive to Manuel Antonio National Park, though it's about a five-minute drive to restaurants and shops on the main road. 

The apartments at Villa Kristina are in a league of their own in terms of size, cleanliness, and facilities, but the decor could use a bit of an update. Apartment One is on the street level and includes a spiral staircase leading to the second floor, where there's a large bedroom with two beds and a full bathroom, along with a cute furnished balcony. Back downstairs is the living room with a huge adjacent balcony set with wooden chairs and strung with a hammock, large full kitchen with full cooking gear, and the master bedroom and bath. Apartment Two is below Apartment One, and the two units can be connected via a hallway. This one doesn't get as much light and has only one floor. There are two bedrooms and one bathroom, plus a furnished balcony with partial ocean views.

All apartments have a washing machine, TV with cable channels, plus air-conditioning and daily maid service. 

As this property consists of self-catering apartments, there isn't a restaurant or bar on-site. Kristina can arrange for a continental breakfast, but the price is a bit steep. Most guests cook for themselves or venture into Manuel Antonio for restaurant dining. The highlight is a large infinity-edge pool with an adjacent hot tub and seating areas. The pool overlooks the thick jungle and feels ultra secluded. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Kristina is happy to assist with booking taxis, excursions, or to give restaurant suggestions. Parking in front of the Villa is free and easy.