The Glass House is an image straight out of a princess' fairy tale, or a luxury suite for the Jetsons, or Austin Powers' secret Costa Rican party pad. From within a helicopter it appears to be a glowing diamond atop a mossy mound, but as you descend the evidences of a country estate coalesce into view--the palm-lined drive, the multifarious gardens, the horse pastures...

A beauty, to be sure, but not for just anyone. Located twenty-five minutes into the hills from Quepos and Manuel Antonio, though palm plantations and past rustic Tico communities, the Glass House appeals especially to that type of people who like to be off the beaten path, surrounded by verdant country, and ensconced in its serenity.

To the west the entire coastline is visible from Palo Seco to Matapalo, the forested flanks of Manuel Antonio right in the middle. In between lies a sea of African date palms, running up to the skirts of the foothills. Beyond, to the east, are the mountains, their peaks lost in clouds.

The house itself is a work of art. The main living area is a massive chamber with vaulted ceilings and walls of smoky glass. At its center is a modern bar, also of glass, below a 55 inch plasma screen TV. To one side there is a 40 foot waterfall, cascading down a column of marbly blue. Through the windows can be seen the huge, 70-foot swimming pool, curling its way around the southern side. Up a suspended stair is the ultra-luxurious master bedroom. Everything is designed to pamper its inhabitants. His and hers walk-in closets, his and hers toilets, and a huge shower with his and hers shower heads... a massive bed, and behind it a sizeable jacuzzi. In addition, there is a 2-bedroom guest apartment and helicopter pad recently added to the property.

Manuel Antonio and Quepos are just a 20 minute drive away. The closest beach is Playa El Rey, only 15 minutes away-- Manuel Antonio national park's longest and most secluded beach.