Within minutes of stepping into Casa Los Cielos, I could tell there was something special about this house. Yes (as other reviews have amply noted), the views are "stunning" - clear morning views all the way to the faint line of the ocean, an evening sunset over distant ridges, and the sparkling city below at night. The woodwork, size, and design provide more than enough space to sip coffee and pray, reflect, and experience gratitude; in fact the space kind of draws that out of you. At times, it can feel transcendent, helped by unplugging from life's noise, and being enfolded in the sights, smells and sounds of lush rainforest.
Access to the community is behind a coded gate. We met a few neighbors and quickly became friends. The house is built on a ridge, and each other neighbor along the winding narrow old farm road has also built on a ridge. So you won't even see another neighbor unless you take a walk on the stone 2-track road down the hill over a creek and up to the next ridge. And I certainly recommend the walks! One of my favorite parts was the morning up-and down hikes within the converted-to-residence former mountain-side cattle ranch.
A couple tips to set your expectations. We stayed here during the rainy season, and that is no joke. Rain every day and chilly down to the 60's overnight. The house is not insulated, so prepare for some cool nights, but the comfortable beds took care of that, and a fully-functioning delightful fireplace provided the ambience and a little relief from the cooler evenings. The house is hardwood throughout (which is part of its gorgeous appeal), and the sensitive nose would need to not mind the interplay of moisture and wood, or the damp tile of the balcony after a misty evening. I doubt that happens at all during the other 9 months of non-rainy season. Also, the charm of the remote location with stunning views also means that time for travel is significant. You will definitely want a rented car, preferably a mini-SUV (automatic) to navigate the very steep and narrow and pot-holed roads to get to and from Casa Los Cielos.
Running out of space here, and still so much to tell: I close by saying the owners (who live 15 min away) are absolutely fantastic. SO responsive to questions, problems to solve, suggestions for anything you might need. Truly gracious and hospitable!
A part of my heart has been left in these hills above San Jose: I must return to retrieve it!