Hacienda Santa Cruz is a stunning new contemporary-style private villa in Costa Rica’s popular Guanacaste region, on the northwest coast. With eight bedrooms, spacious and dramatic inside gathering areas, and an oversized swimming pool and terrace, La Hacienda is a perfect place for families or groups of friends who want the luxury and convenience of an up-to-date residence in a location of unspoiled natural beauty. A working ranch, this luxury vacation property enjoys exhilarating views of the mountains.

Less than an hour drive from the Liberia International Airport, La Hacienda is very close to the colorful seaside town of Tamarindo. Numerous beaches, some of them private but accessible to Hacienda’s guests, are within 30 minutes.

There are accommodations for 16 guests at Hacienda (more if the party includes children) in a combination of king- and queen-bedded rooms, each with its own full bath. The finest Italian linens, and luxurious amenities, are used throughout. Rooms enjoy views over the pool to the mountains beyond, or alternatively they open up through French doors to the large, colorful courtyard.

Meals, and wines from the owner’s Tuscan vineyards, are included in La Hacienda’s rates. Two chefs create menus customized to the guests’ preferences, and a uniformed and highly trained staff serves meals as well as refreshments around pool and terrace. Local Costa Rican specialties are recommended, although the staff at this luxury villa is equally comfortable with European and international preparation.

Hacienda Santa Cruz is a working ranch. The horses and sabaneros (cowboys) are available to guests of all riding levels, for horseback riding on and near the ranch. For those wanting to sample the fine white sand beaches along this part of Costa Rica’s coast, there are a number of national park beaches within one-half hour, as well as private beaches to which La Hacienda’s concierge can arrange access for her guests. Among them are Playa Avellanas, Playa Langosta and Playa Bonita. Tamarindo, a fun village for shopping, also boasts excellent surfing. For those who want simply to relax, La Hacienda’s pool is dramatically large, with seemingly endless views of ranchland and mountains.

Hacienda Santa Cruz is perfect for small destination weddings, providing the total privacy and stunning surroundings that make for a truly memorable event. And, what better way to honor the importance of the event than to have one’s close friends and family share a luxurious, intimate venue for a few days before the wedding day itself.