Entire home

Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room

Riverside holiday home with outdoor pool and Hot tub

Photo gallery for Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room

Exterior detail
Interior
Jacuzzi
Living area
Private kitchen

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4200 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Pool

Explore the area

View map
Rivas, San José Province
  • Place, Miravalles Cross
    ‪19 min drive‬
  • Place, Canaan Cheeses
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Place, Samaritan Chocolate
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bidet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room

Welcome to Rocka Verde Retreat, a truly extraordinary luxury riverfront vacation home in Rivas, Costa Rica. This one-of-a-kind jungle villa is built around four massive ancient boulders, believed by locals to have belonged to a prehistoric cave where mammoths once roamed. It is unlike any other rental in the country — a private sanctuary offering mountain views, lush fruit trees, river pools, total seclusion, and high-end comfort.

Designed by artist and homebuilder Robert Hennesy, Rocka Verde seamlessly blends nature and luxury. When the enormous stones were discovered during construction, they became the architectural centerpiece, creating a space so remarkable it will soon appear on House Hunters International. Guests often describe the home as “the eighth wonder of the world.”


Property Highlights:

Private dipping pools directly in the river

Indoor jacuzzi with waterfall

Riverside gazebo ideal for massages or relaxing

Spa-style bathroom with dual waterfall showers and warm bidet

Artistic architecture built around giant natural stones

Gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances + cappuccino machine

Chef’s pantry offering gourmet snacks (caviar, olives, escargot, anchovies)

Wine selection available for purchase

Bedrooms with river views (1 queen, 1 double)

Lounge chairs, gardens, and private pathways

Fruit trees guests may pick from

Inside, the home offers an open, airy, natural atmosphere while still providing all the comfort and style of a high-end, boutique retreat. The property is perfect for couples, honeymooners, nature lovers, wellness travelers, and those seeking a one-of-a-kind escape.

Please note: Bedrooms and the bathroom are accessed by spiral staircases. The home may be challenging for young children, elderly travelers, or those with mobility limitations.


Guest Access:

You will have exclusive access to the entire property — the home, gazebo, river pools, jungle paths, lounging areas, and fruit trees. This is a fully private retreat, not shared with anyone else.


Enhance your stay with optional add ons:

Riverside professional massages in the gazebo

Private chef-prepared dinner by Robert, featuring organic, local ingredients

Special-occasion decorations

Airport transportation with a private driver

Car rental assistance

Local Guidebook Included

Before your arrival, you’ll receive our digital guidebook full of curated recommendations: restaurants, hikes, hot springs, waterfalls, activities, local markets, cafés, viewpoints, and secret spots only locals know.

About the Area — Rivas, Costa Rica:

Rocka Verde is located in Rivas, one of Costa Rica’s most charming mountain towns. Known for its perfect year-round climate, friendly community, access to nature, and proximity to the Chirripó region, it’s the ideal home base for exploring southern Costa Rica.

Jungle Experience — What to Expect:

This is authentic Costa Rica — wildlife, birds, and insects are part of the environment.

Keeping screens closed helps reduce bugs indoors.

Occasional power or internet outages may occur (rare but possible). WiFi is available but not high-speed.

A 4x4 vehicle is recommended; you may cross small bridges and a shallow stream.

Travel Tip:

We strongly recommend arriving before dark. Rural Costa Rican roads can be difficult to navigate at night, and arriving during daylight ensures a smoother, safer experience.

Guest Experience:

We are always available to answer questions, help plan adventures, offer local guidance, or arrange services to make your trip unforgettable.

Rocka Verde Retreat is more than a vacation rental — it’s a modern jungle experience, a natural sanctuary, and a truly unique architectural masterpiece. Whether you’re celebrating something special, reconnecting with nature, or simply seeking peace and beauty, this private riverfront hideaway delivers an unforgettable stay.

We look forward to welcoming you to one of Costa Rica’s most magical homes.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets

Pets allowed: less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

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, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25
Long-term renters welcome
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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 indicated that there is no smoke detector on the property
Property # 3831912vb

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Rivas

Located in Rivas, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Quebradas Biological Center and Sabana de los Leones are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Mariposario Casa Alegría and The Secret Gardens. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Rivas, San José Province

What's nearby

  • Miravalles Cross - 19 min drive - 8.0 km
  • Canaan Cheeses - 20 min drive - 12.3 km
  • Mariposario Casa Alegría - 20 min drive - 12.3 km
  • Samaritan Chocolate - 21 min drive - 12.7 km
  • The Secret Gardens - 23 min drive - 14.4 km

Restaurants

  • ‪El Andaluz - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Batsú Gastropub - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Kapi Kapi - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Buona pizza - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Antojitos del Maíz - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

How much is parking at Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Artsy Riverfront Jungle Retreat: River Pool & Hot Tub in living room located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is within 9 miles (15 km) of Miravalles Cross, Mariposario Casa Alegría and Canaan Cheeses. Samaritan Chocolate and The Secret Gardens are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 4 out of 4 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 4 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 4 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 4 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 4 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Scott C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Eighth Wonder of the World!

This place is amazing. After walking down the stairs, you see the most incredible rock house with built-in spa, open concept living/dining areas, and truly incredible bathroom with heated seat and great shower. We loved spending family time together in this memorable location. If we had more time, we would have enjoyed hanging out in the gazebo over the river. Very excited to return someday.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Truly unique

The incorporation of the natural surroundings into the design of the house were incredibly well done. The sound of the river was the perfect white noise to allow for a solid nights sleep.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Caryn A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical spot in Costa Rica

The Rocka Verde Retreat was stunning. We had a magical stay. Not only was the house beautifully designed and well equipped, but the property was equally as attractive and situated right on a pristine river. I am so grateful Robert had the creative insight and inspiration to manifest such a unique and astounding space. Definitely a special treat if you are going to be visiting this part of Costa Rica! Robert was very responsive throughout the booking process and stay. The house was equipped with everything needed for cooking and tidying up. The espresso machine was a bonus, as was having oil, coffee, and salt, and pepper provided. Finally, the surrounding areas of Rivas and San Gerardo are a nature lover's paradise even though you will find it hard to leave the property once you are there.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandra H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow,, what a unique place!

The property is amazing....i can see why its named the 8th wonder of the world. The home is biult right into huge rocks but you dont feel like you are in a cave. Robert has designed this home beautifully and uniquely. I would recommend you take advantage of his culinary skills and have him cook you a meal upon your arrival. It was soooo good....and a lot of food!!!! Pasta...braised ribs...roased artichoke...fresh cheese bread....house salad with home made dressing...shrimp cocktail....wine...pastries and home made kumkwat jam...and ice cream!!! Only thing to be cautious about...try to get there in the daylight...we were running late and did get lost but eventually made it!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

About the host

Hosted by Robert

Host profile image
The retreat was built by the host Robert Hennessy, a custom home builder, designer, and artist.
Robert is also an amazing chef and prides himself with the quality of his creations using local and organic food. He is available by request to cook you up a meal either at your retreat or at his home. Yorleny, his wife, is a local and enjoys providing massages to guests that can be booked in advance.

Why they chose this property

Across the street from the retreat is a fantastic organic farm, and the hot springs are just a few minutes away. Additionally, there are many 4-star restaurants a short drive away. If you like shopping, San Isidro is just a few minutes away.

What makes this property unique

The Rocka Verde Retreat is a unique and unparalleled experience. It's the perfect place to stay if you want something extraordinary. It's even possible that this land was a mastodon territory hundreds of years ago!

Languages:

English, Spanish, Russian
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