A new ecological community, Rancho San Roque, is being developed in the foothills of the Rincon de la Vieja volcano in Costa Rica.  The developer has engaged the services of The Project Office (TPO) to manage the project; Deppat to create the master plan; and Zurcher Architects to create the architectural detail for a private residential community in harmony with nature.  Each of the 37 fully-titled lots available for purchase has at least 1.25-acres (5000M2) and incorporates sweeping views of the Guanacaste countryside, enjoying cool mountain air and rich volcanic soil.

Residents will enjoy the tranquility of country living with the convenience of modern services.  Located in Cañas Dulces – only 30 minutes from Liberia – where modern shopping, fine dining, and premium services are abundant.  The international airport in Liberia is just 40 minutes away, and some of Costa Rica’s best white-sand beaches and fishing are also an easy drive from the community.

Rancho San Roque is situated at a comfortable 1500 feet above sea level, offering fresh cool mountain breezes.  The area is host to a growing number of ecotourism facilities such as Buena Vista Adventure Center and Spa, which offers adventure sports such as canopy tours, rappelling, waterslides, horseback riding, hiking, thermal spa baths, and much more.  A high-end eco-resort, Borinquen Mountain Spa, showcases hot springs, a luxury hotel, restaurants, nature trails, and many more attractions within just minutes of the community.  The community is also located within minutes from the planned Guanacaste Country Club designed by Jack Nicklaus and being developed by a U.S. group that includes Frank Biden (Joe Biden’s brother).

“Most of the development in Guanacaste has happened at the beaches, but an increasing number of full-time expats find it to be too hot and too touristy,” said Dan Harris the CEO of The Project Office. “That is why we chose a tranquil country setting with a cooler climate for our community.  We’re in a laid-back rural area, yet still close to all modern services and amenities in Liberia.”

The city of Liberia is continually expanding with modern services.  Several banks, shopping centers and restaurants make up the town center along with the Home Depot-style hardware store called the Do It Center.  Large commercial developers are betting that Liberia becomes the business capital of northern Costa Rica, similar to the Central Valley, as evidenced by the million square-meter Solarium office industrial complex.  Furthermore, the best hospital in Central America, CIMA Hospital San Jose, has plans to build a new full-scale private hospital in Liberia.

Rancho San Roque will engage in a permaculture project to restore the pastureland, and will feature a community center with a pool and fitness center, walking trails through orchards, a greenhouse, organic gardens and aquaculture ponds.  The rich volcanic soil is perfect for gardening where the project aims to produce fresh organic vegetables, many fruit and nuts, fresh-water fish, chickens and eggs for the residents.

“Our goal is to restore the land with an edible forest and permaculture gardens producing healthy food security for residents” Harris added. “The intention of permaculture is not only to produce food, but also give immeasurable benefits to the environment while creating a beautiful and diverse landscape to enjoy.”

All environmental permitting is in place and all lots are ready to sell with clear title.  The developers are encouraging alternative energy such as wind and solar power, but are providing electric grid service in the community.  Satellite TV is readily available and high-speed Internet will be on site creating a fully connected community.

Each lot comes with a Costa Rica corporation allowing for clean transfers with low fees, and gives buyers a vehicle to obtain cell phones and other utilities.  The community is currently one of the best values in Costa Rica starting at $50,000 during the development phase. Financing is available with 40% down at 8% interest for 5 years ($20K down, $608/mth).

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The area around Rincon de la Vieja, Guanacaste is a richly fertile diverse location that is continuing to benefit from the growing interest in the Northwest area of Costa Rica. The Liberia International airport has brought full connectivity to the region both nationally and internationally. The center of Liberia is full of shops, restaurants, and all modern conveniences. The small town of Canas Dulces is just 30 minutes from modern development, and yet is located in the foothills where the weather is substantially cooler at 1,500 feet above sea level, and commands stunning views of the surrounding countryside, as well as some of the best sunset views in the country over the Gulf of Papagayo. The new sustainable community of Rancho San Roque has taken advantage of the wealth of natural resources, as well as the convenience offered by an international airport and proximity to a major town. We believe that these 1.25 acre lots are a tremendous value starting at $50,000.

Property Highlights:

* 37 titled lots

* 1,500 foot elevation offers much cooler weather than the Guanacaste coast

* Many nearby activities

* 40 minutes to Liberia international airport

* 30 minutes to Liberia city center — many shops and restaurants

* Permaculture design focused on self-sufficiency

* OWNER FINANCING AVAILABLE: $20,000 DOWN $608 PER MONTH FOR 5 YEARS

Property Description:

New sustainable community nestled in the foothills of Rincon de la Vieja volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica has 37 titled lots of 1.25-acres (5000M2) each. Pristine country setting in an area famous for nature-loving adventure sports like canopy tours, rappelling, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, thermal baths, and much more. Only 30 minutes to Liberia center, 40 minutes to international airport, and less than an hour to Northern Pacific beaches.
Situated above 1500ft elevation with a cooler mountain climate, the majority of lots are flat and entirely usable while offering sweeping views of the Guanacaste countryside, the Rincon volcano, mountain ridges and sunsets over the Pacific.

The community is being developed in harmony with nature using the rich volcanic soil for a permaculture project creating edible forests, organic gardens, aquaculture ponds, and small livestock. The community center will include a pool, fitness center, sporting and wellness facilities.

The developers are offering special pricing of $50,000 per lot during the development phase. Developer financing is available for $20K down, $608/mth for 5 years. Excellent investment and beautiful setting for full-time natural living in Costa Rica.

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Those who study current events are largely in agreement that we appear to be reaching a critical tipping point in terms of the environment, economics, geopolitics, and even consciousness. A concerned public – some now openly calling themselves “survivalists” – desire to be more independent and live a more self-sufficient lifestyle. The rise of sustainability and permaculture are direct outcomes of what more and more people perceive to be a sound response to an uncertain global economy.

Permaculture Community in Costa Rica

The epicenter of abundance gone wrong, and misplaced faith in government responsibility (and ability), is North America. Developing countries like Costa Rica have long held an attraction for independent thinkers and those seeking self-sufficiency. Among the developing countries, Costa Rica is the jewel; it is THE top location for more independent living: it is a country with a firmly entrenched history of peace and a wonderful year-round climate that is suitable for an independent lifestyle.

Wind Power in Costa Rica

The world is provably approaching a peak in its productivity and resource abundance; we have moved over the crest and our supplies are in a phase of rapid dwindling, according to many experts. These experts assert that countries primarily producing electricity by fossil fuels will likely face serious hardships keeping up with the ever-growing demand, especially in light of Peak Oil concerns. These same countries that tend to rely on big-box stores and factory farming with long supply lines will have the hardest time adapting. On the contrary, countries that produce electricity by renewable self-sufficient means will likely be the most desirable locations in which to reside during our painful transition away from fossil fuels.

In the early 90s, Costa Rica discovered oil off the Caribbean coast. At that time the country produced roughly half of its electricity from fossil fuels. The government placed a moratorium on drilling because it was too politically toxic, and the government stated that sustainability would be their new goal. Today, Costa Rica produces over 90% of its electricity through renewable means: hydroelectric, wind, and geothermal sources. Additionally, Costa Rica is at the front of the race to become carbon neutral, with its stated goal of becoming so in 2021.

Geothermal Power Plant

Policy aside, the spring-like climate of Costa Rica allows for fresh inexpensive fruits and vegetables all year round. What’s more is that most of the produce is local, so it does not have to be transported long distance; it is usually fresh picked the day of the ferias (farmers markets). By contrast, a pineapple costs more than an entire fast food meal in North America, almost forcing the cash-strapped public to eat the unhealthy alternative. Pineapples rarely cost over $1 at local ferias making eating healthy more affordable, which no doubt contributes to a life expectancy that surpasses The United States.

Farmers Market in Atenas Costa Rica

The variety of edible plants that can be grown in Costa Rica is fantastic . . . and almost intimidating. The majority of Costa Rica soil is volcanic in nature and quite fertile, providing the organic gardener with natural diversity and natural capital. However, insects do remain a challenge to someone new to organic gardening in the tropics. Rest assured though, every local community seems to have its organic experts who still practice what America lost so long ago. New ventures in permaculture have brought in formal institutes and consultants dedicated to sustainable practices that serve to augment Costa Rican tradition.

Permaculture Community in Costa Rica

One of the greatest characteristics of Costa Rica that often goes unmentioned, and is particularly important to “survivalists,” is its localism and sense of community. We all have read about the political neutrality, wonderful people, peaceful culture, and beautiful landscape; but it is Costa Rica’s localism that really makes it special. In our old agricultural town of Atenas you’ll find small barrios (neighborhoods) with independent schools, churches, markets, clinics, hardware stores, fruit stands, soccer fields, bus stops, and much more. Many expats comment that Costa Rica reminds them of America fifty years ago, when there was a sense of community, family farmers, a strong middle class, and thriving local commerce.

Additionally, since the Central Valley is considered to have one of the best climates on the planet, very few homes in the area require heat or air conditioning, thus reducing energy consumption. Furthermore, solar power for hot water and electricity is frequently used in homes, extending one’s ability to be affordably independent.

The government of Costa Rica has been a world leader in conservation, preserving roughly 30% of its landmass. The government has launched many incentives to protect and plant more forests toward its goal of being the world’s first carbon-neutral country. Because Costa Rica has bountiful forests and a healthy rainy season, water tables remain secure in most of the country. Although some areas of Guanacaste have water challenges in the dry season do to high winds, deforestation and development, fresh water is generally abundant.

Reforestation in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has continually set itself apart as an attractive destination for those seeking independence and tranquility. Costa Rica provides natural abundance and a peaceful atmosphere for one to live self-sufficiently on less income than North America or Europe. Indeed, many expats have already moved or bought property here, and even more are arriving based on their growing concerns over instability in the world. “It sure is a pretty place to ride out a storm,” an American expat proclaimed. And this “storm” may not be quickly passing through. Costa Rica is not only positioned to weather the worst, but it also offers a bounty of proven health and opportunity for those who believe in independence and self-determination.

Greenhouse and Organic Nursery

We are experiencing an increasingly uncertain world with the recent financial crisis and collapse of the world markets, the 2008 oil price shocks that sent energy and food costs to the stratosphere, the rapid decay of our ecosystem, and depleting fresh water supplies.  Many experts predict more oil shocks in the near future due to the statistics behind “Peak Oil” and the declining value of the US dollar.
According to environmentalists, human population growth has already far exceeded the natural carrying capacity of planet Earth, making us ever more dependent on fossil fuels for our modern civilization to function.

Although there are many reasons given for the recent global economic meltdown, $147 per barrel oil as a cause has been rarely discussed.  The entire world economy depends on oil, and this fuel of life went from $17 per barrel in 2001 to $147 in 2008.  This, in my opinion, was the primary cause of the global economic bankruptcy, not the 5% of bad mortgages in the US.

Organic Plant Nursery at Sustainable Community

The large multinational agriculture corporations must use heavy doses of fossil fuel based fertilizers and pesticides to grow crops on otherwise unfertile soil, while using massive diesel tractors to plant and harvest, only to transport the crops thousands of miles to big box stores.  No wonder the cost of rice doubled in 2008 along with oil.

It is also estimated that 70% of the world’s fresh water supply is used for irrigation and other agribusiness.  This system is highly unsustainable and is likely to experience further problems as oil and water become less available and more expensive.  The US and other parts of the world have made a conscious effort to increase focus on local food production to lesson the impact of future oil shocks.

Sustainable Living in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is well positioned to weather any storm caused by future increases in the price of oil.  Costa Rica produces over 95% of its electricity through renewable means like hydroelectric, geothermal, and wind power.  Costa Rica is considered a “BioGem” according to the Natural Resource Council, a place where 27% of the land mass is reserved (the world leader) and local food production is overflowing.  Ranked as the 5th most environmentally clean country by Yale University’s Environmental Performance Index (EPI), Costa Rica has committed to becoming the first carbon neutral country by 2021.

Costa Rica is fast becoming a highly desirable location for those seeking to live a sustainable lifestyle in comfort.  An intelligently designed new sustainable community is now fully-titled and available for purchase.  Enjoy healthy living with food, energy, and water security in this new permaculture community in San Mateo, Costa Rica.

Permaculture Community in Costa Rica

Located on the ultra-clean Rio Machuca in San Mateo, which is on the Western edge of the Central Valley between Atenas and Orotina.  The community is only 25 minutes to central Pacific beaches, 25 minutes to Atenas, and 15 minutes to the new highway.  San Mateo is a traditional small agriculture town with a nice central park and all basic services.

The community offers 42 titled lots for eco-home sites with extensive organic gardens, fruit & nut trees, aquaculture, plenty of fresh water, and alternative energy designs.  It’s a place where the “community” aspect is still important for people to live a healthy and sustainable lifestyle, celebrating food, music, the arts, and Costa Rican history, culture and traditions.

Aquaculture Tilapia and Clam Ponds

Food Security:  A greenhouse, nursery and organic gardens are built and fully operational with 100s of varieties of organic fruits, nuts, vegetables, herbs, medicinals, teas, which are planted and growing throughout the community; including mangos, oranges, papayas, bananas, plantains, cashews, almonds and much more.  In addition, fresh organic eggs and chicken meat are available, and an extensive aquaculture system with Tilapia and fresh water clams and shrimp is fully operational.  The center pavilion will have community food processing and storage facilities.

Waterfall to Aquaculture Ponds

Water Security:  A potable water well with two large water storage tanks is in place to supply drinking water to the home sites. The community is blessed to have multiple year-round fresh water streams and to border the Machuca River which has many waterfalls and swimming holes.   In addition, an ecological storm-water management pond system is in place, and home designs are planned with rainwater collection for dry-season irrigation.

Energy Security:  Homes will be built with solar power systems and propane for cooking.  The developer is also exploring the possibility of a small hydroelectric plant.

Site Plan of Costa Rica Sustainable Community

The 42 residential lots average 2000M2 (1/2 acre) in size and there is also a titled and permitted 2 acre eco-hotel lot. Lot prices range from $80,000 – $130,000.  Turnkey off-the-grid green homes built to your design for $90/sf.

This is an excellent opportunity to retire to a sustainable paradise where residents will experience the ultimate freedom of living off-the-grid in harmony with nature.

FOR MORE INFO Email us at -  CRFirst@yahoo.com