8th Wonder of the World- Art, Jacuzzi & River Pool
Discover one of Costa Rica’s most extraordinary homes, a jungle retreat built around four massive ancient boulders, believed by locals to be part of a prehistoric cave where mammoths once roamed. Set on a private riverfront property with lush fruit trees, dramatic mountain views, and complete seclusion, this is a stay that blends nature and wonder. Wake up to the sound of the river, explore your own jungle oasis, and unwind in an artistic space designed to reconnect you with beauty & adventure. The space Rocka Verde Retreat is a one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece designed around four giant natural rock formations. Artistic, modern, and spacious, it offers a unique living experience unlike anywhere else. Highlights include: Jacuzzi with a waterfall right in the living room Private dipping pool in the river, complete with fun pool floats Spa-style bathroom with two waterfall showers and a warm bidet Beautiful gourmet kitchen with quality appliances, including a cappuccino machine Fully stocked chef’s pantry with optional gourmet treats (caviar, escargots, anchovies, olives, etc.) Bar with wine selection and snacks available for purchase Bedrooms with peaceful river views — one queen bed, one double Please note: The bedrooms and bathroom are accessed via spiral staircases and steps, which may be difficult for young children, elderly guests, or anyone with mobility limitations. Enhance your stay with a private riverside massage or book a chef-prepared dinner featuring fresh, local, organic ingredients. We can also arrange decorations for special occasions, airport pickup, or car rental assistance. This is a full-service retreat designed for comfort, beauty, and serenity. Guest access Guests have private access to the entire property. Enjoy: The tranquil riverside dipping area The gazebo overlooking the flowing water Lounge chairs for sunbathing or relaxing Well-maintained jungle paths Fresh fruit trees you’re welcome to pick from Guest praise: “This place is one of the most beautifully designed Airbnbs my wife and I have stayed in… the perfect combination of luxury, comfort, and connection with nature… We saw otters, birds, and so much wildlife! Fully recommended.” Other things to note Rocka Verde Retreat was created by artist and designer Robert Hennesy, who specializes in finding unique lots and building exceptional custom homes. The massive boulders that now define the heart of the house were an unexpected discovery— even the previous owner didn’t know they were there. Their presence completely transformed the vision for the home, which is now set to be featured on House Hunters International. Elders in the area say a mammoth once lived here, and when you see the stones, it’s easy to imagine. Many guests describe the property as “the eighth wonder of the world.” About the area: Rocka Verde Retreat is located in Rivas, one of Costa Rica’s most charming towns. Known for its ideal year-round climate, dramatic mountain scenery, and peaceful local atmosphere, it’s the perfect base for both relaxation and adventure. Guidebook included: Before your arrival, we will send you a detailed digital guidebook with recommendations for restaurants, hikes, hot springs, viewpoints, local experiences, and everything you need to make the most of your stay. Good to know: Because this is the jungle, it’s normal to see insects or animals nearby. Keeping the screens closed helps a lot. Occasional power or internet outages may happen (not frequent, but possible). WiFi works, but it is not high-speed. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, and you may cross small bridges and a shallow stream on the way — all part of the authentic Costa Rican experience. Travel Tip: We do not recommend driving to the property after dark. Costa Rican roads can be difficult to navigate at night, especially in rural areas. Arriving during daylight makes for a smoother and more enjoyable trip. Ready to book? Instant Book is on — lock in your dates! Have questions? Send us a message anytime. Not ready yet? Save us to your wish list and return when you're ready.
Reviews
Perfect Score
4.9 · 70 reviews
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Recent Reviews
5
Mack
3 months ago
Our stay was brief but well worth it for the experience. My kids loved the treehouse feel, and the rushing river was like a lullaby. I just wish the water level was higher so we could have enjoyed the natural river pool.
Host replied
5
James
3 months ago
Absolutely wonderful. An incredibly unique home. I would highly recommend unless you have issues with stairs. My personal favorite was the viewing area above the Rio.
5
Erick
3 months ago
A great secluded getaway! Unique property along a babbling brook.
Host replied
5
Rahma
4 months ago
Wow!!! We didn’t want to leave this magical place! Made our first 2 nights in Costa Rica super special and memorable. The place deserves more than 5 stars! We couldn’t stop calling family and friends to show them this Gem! Highly recommend.
Host replied
2
Stephen
5 months ago
We were very excited to go to this air bnb and our kids were pumped to see the statue of the Mammoth on the front lawn. But then the mammoth didn’t exist. The drive in to Robert’s is through a seemingly dangerous area. When we got settled, we went out back to swim, and the “pool” was fed by the river and it’s currently dry season. The pond was pretty nasty and full of tadpoles. We ordered the “seafood extravaganza” dinner and Robert did drop us off some nice home cooked fish and shrimp in Tupperware. At $95 per person we had eaten at some of the nicest restaurants in CR, this was not worth even 1/4 of that. The power went out the following morning so our kids were cold for a few hours. We left that day and didn’t ask for a reimbursement because it was last minute, nor did we get money back for the massages we didn’t have yet. I then got a voice note from Robert’s assistant offering me $50 to leave him a 5 star review. I guess that’s how he has so many 5 stars. Very disappointing.
Host replied
5
Kelsey
5 months ago
What can we say but WOW! If you are considering booking this place, do not hesitate! Truly a once in a lifetime experience here; the craftsmanship and artistry are beyond beautiful. Robert is a fantastic host and you will not be disappointed. On top of everything the view is to die for and the beds are extremely comfortable too.
Host replied
5
Jennifer & Jason
6 months ago
We had an amazing stay at Robert’s incredible, unique home. Completely private, quiet and comfortable but close to small towns and beautiful hikes. Robert and Luba were two of the best hosts we ever stayed with. He met us with a bottle of wine, left us delicious spaghetti for our first night and checked in occasionally to see if we needed anything. We ordered the breakfast and fruit basket which made it easy to enjoy mornings at the house and my wife scheduled what she said was the best massage she’s ever had overlooking the river on our last morning. 100% happy with our stay.
Host replied
5
Barbara
6 months ago
Wow, just Wow!!! Robert’s house was truly the most unique home that we’ve stayed in! We only spent 1 night but if we are ever back in the area we would book for many more days. The property and house are amazing. I kept FaceTiming family and friends at home to give them a tour as words really do not describe how special this home is. The river deck and private swimming hole was incredible. The kitchen was complete with everything you would need. On top of that, they also had home cooked meals available to buy if you didn’t feel like cooking or going out to eat. The bed, linens were super comfortable with a beautiful breeze coming in from the river. The hot tub in the home was so like the cherry on top! Thank you Robert for opening your home for others to experience and enjoy. Robert and Luba go the extra mile to make it memorable. We’ll never forget it!
Host replied
4
Simone
6 months ago
Die Unterkunft war sehr speziell und eine extrem super tolle Architektur. Da ich eine doch etwas grössere Frau bin (174) konnte ich in einem Schlafzimmer nicht stehen, aber es hatte noch ein normales Deckenhohe Zimmer. Bei Ankunft war die Küche nicht ganz sauber, aber für uns okey. Da wir 3 Wochen in CR unterwegs waren hatten wir Vergleiche, diese Unterkunft war mit Abstand die teuerste, jedoch gibt es in CR ähnliche, die nur einen Bruchteil waren von dem Betrag. Es ist und bleibt aber etwas super besonderes und ich kann diese Unterkunft wärmstens empfehlen, der Jacutzy war super nach vielen Touren und der Aussenpool ebenfalls genial. Auch der Sitzplatz oben am Fluss echt etwas einmaliges! Wir würden immer wieder kommen in diese Unterkunft, es verkörpert sehr das "Pura Vida en CR" ♥️ Danke für alles🙏♥️
Host replied
5
Laura
6 months ago
We absolutely loved our night at Roca Verde Retreat! Super unique place to stay, beautiful design and property. The gazebo over the river was so wonderful, the indoor jacuzzi my kids absolutely loved, and lots of attention to details! Big kitchen, we didn’t really utilize since we only stayed a night but would be really great for home meals and grill. Highly recommend! Very cool more rural area, super quiet, and peaceful and felt very safe. Loved walking around the neighborhood and the hanging bridge.
Host replied
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