Our Story

The owners of Villa Avellana fell in love with the natural beauty and kindhearted people of Costa Rica over twenty years ago and are honored to be able to share their experience with guests through the incredible team they have put together at one of the most spectacular settings
in the country. 

From grants for local students and staff to continue their education to sourcing as many ingredients and materials locally as possible. They are dedicated to investing in their people, preserving this natural paradise, and supporting the development of healthy communities in Costa Rica.

Better Together

In partnership with Peninsula Papagayo, Villa Avellana is able to offer guests a variety of meaningful ways to get involved and make a positive impact during their stay and long after.
Help restore local biodiversity by way of the Coral
Restoration program, or volunteer with Creciendo Juntos, the peninsula’s pioneering community outreach program, is dedicated to improving access to quality healthcare and education in nineteen surrounding communities. The concierge will be able to customize an itinerary specifically for you, your goals and your interests.

Our people

The exceptional experience offered by Villa Avellana would not be possible without the staff. All experts in their field with experience working in luxury hospitality around the world. Guests will never look far to find a helping hand, a creative dish, or a memorable adventure accompanied by a big genuine smile.

The Villa Avellana team is proud of their work and it shows. Meet a few of the many people who make all the difference.

Thomas Freitag

General Manager

Favorite place in Costa Rica?

On the ocean, anywhere.

Favorite hobby?

Split decision with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and spearfishing

What is something you would like to learn?

Private Piloting

If you could dine with one person - dead or alive - who would it be?

Yvon Chouinard, environmentalist and founder of Patagonia

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

Partnering with MG to launch Villa Avellana and putting together the amazing team I get to work with everyday

Sergio Jaen

Lead Concierge

Favorite place in Costa Rica?

Manuel Antonio National Park. The combination of beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and a wide variety of wildlife make it a truly unforgettable destination.

Favorite hobby?

Traveling and exploring different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes around the world is something that brings me immense joy and inspiration.

What is something you would like to learn?

Portuguese! Being able to communicate in multiple languages is a great way to connect on a deeper level with people from different parts of the world.

If you could dine with one person - dead or alive - who would it be?

My father, who passed away when I was a child. I would love to hear his stories and share more time as a family.

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

One of my most significant professional accomplishments is becoming a member of Les Clefs d'Or (The Golden Keys). Being a part of this prestigious organization fills me with great pride to be recognized for my dedication to the hospitality industry.

Chef David Moya

Executive Chef

Favorite place in Costa Rica?

The Osa Peninsula

Favorite hobby?

Listening to live music and playing the saxophone

What is something you would like to learn?

I would love to become a professional chocolatier

If you could dine with one person - dead or alive - who would it be?

My wife. We always have the best experiences in the world surrounded by food.

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

Playing a concert for 22,000 people in Mexico City

Humberto Adelaide

Operations Manager

Favorite place in Costa Rica?

Nosara

Favorite hobby?

Spending time with my family and exploring new places, culture and food. I learn from my children every day

What is something you would like to learn?

I would like to learn more about community development and how to drive change through leadership

If you could dine with one person - dead or alive - who would it be?

My grandfather

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

Building my own business, diversifying my knowledge and setting my vision for the next 10 years