Entire home

:Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment.

:Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment.

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Pool
Aerial view
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Interior

Overview of :Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment.

Reviews
9.8

Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • PoolPoolPool
  • Pet-friendlyPet-friendlyPet-friendly
  • Breakfast availableBreakfast availableBreakfast available
  • Hot tubHot tubHot tub
  • WasherWasherWasher
  • DryerDryerDryer

Check out the area

Map
Santa Cruz, Island, Galapagos Islands
  • Popular LocationPlaya de los Alemanes2 min walk
  • Popular LocationMalecon3 min walk
  • Popular LocationTortuga Bay Beach4 min drive
  • AirportIsla Baltra (GPS-Seymour)100 min drive

Space details

4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, sleeps 8
8000 sq ft
Bedroom 1
    1 queen bed
Bedroom 2
    1 queen bed
Bedroom 3
    2 twin/single beds
Bedroom 4
    2 twin/single beds
Common area
    2 bunk beds
Bathroom 1
    Shower
Bathroom 2
    Bathtub/shower combo
Bathroom 3
    Bathtub/shower combo
Bathroom 4
    No shower or bathtub

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

:Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment.

Welcome to Galapagos

The Bay House is nestled in a pristine bay on the edge of Punta Estrada, the exclusive neighborhood on the stunning Galapagos island of Santa Cruz.It is located in the beautiful Shark Bay, also known as Franklin Bay,The villa is water front and has its private dock that gives access to the villa directly from the sea.It is very close ,at short walking distance to two main attractions : Las Grietas and the Playa de los Alemanes.
 
Home to Furio Valbonesi, this charming self-catering villa is available for short term rental for families and groups of up to 8 people.

'I invite you to explore the myriad wonders of Galapagos' unique eco-system from the comfort of my home. Since first arriving on the islands in 1973, it has been my dream to create a home in this secluded corner of paradise.
 
Ten years ago this dream became reality and for the past few years I opened the doors to visitors from across the world. Do take a look around this website for a taste of what is in store for you should you choose the Bay House as your base for visiting the islands.'
 
Furio Valbonesi

Accommodation

On the ground floor is a large open kitchen / dining room overlooking the whirlpool ,the infinity pool and the bay. The kitchen is fully equipped with everything you might need to cater for your group.
 
Next to the pool is the Swedish sauna, the BBQ area with Italian brick oven. Both outdoor and indoor showers, as well as a guest bathroom and laundry room are available for your use.
 
On the first floor are two bedrooms with en suite bathrooms complete with bathtub, shower and bidet. There are two bunk beds suitable for children in the lobby that separate the bedrooms.A large terrace overlooks the bay from this floor.
In the second floor is the owner apartment which has a totally independent access from the rest of the house so to give total privacy to the guests.
 
Next to the main house, separated by a small garden is the Guest House with two air conditioned twin bedrooms, each with their own bathroom and shower.
 
As there are no cars in the neighborhood it is a safe place for children. You can listen to the mockingbirds, Darwin finches and lava gulls all day long.
 
Maid service will be available 6 mornings per week (excluding Sunday and National Holidays).

 Activities

Included as part of your rental is the use of the infinity swimming pool, with jacuzzi and sauna. A kayak is also available for your enjoyment. You are encouraged to bring your own equipment for snorkeling in the tranquil bay right in front of the house.
 
The villa is a 5 minute walk from the famous 'German Beach' and only 10 minutes from 'Las Grietas', a water canyon with brackish crystal clear water.

In Puerto Ayora one can visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Galapagos National Park Van Strahlen Hall to see the giant tortoises breeding center and land iguanas. Saturday morning sees a wonderful array of local produce on display at the central market in town.
 
A trip up into the highlands of Santa Cruz, some 20 minutes by taxi from the town of Puerto Ayora, will allow you to see giant tortoises living in the wild, as well as explore the fascinating underground lava tunnels.
 
Puerto Ayora is where all day tours to the nearby islands start. With Santa Cruz being situated at the center of the archipelago, it offers most activities and excursions to other islands, as well as to the highlands where you can see the Galapagos Tortoises in their natural habitat. Of all the trips, Furio recommends a trip to the fine white sand of Tortuga Bay beach and to Garrapatero beach where you can rent kayaks and enjoy your own BBQ.
 
Do ask Furio, either before your visit or once you arrive, to help you with arrangements for your tours and excursions.
 
Not Included in Rental Rates :
1-Villa transfers from and to the Airport.
2- Any other kind of transfers




Property manager

Furio Valbonesi

Languages

English, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool
  • Sauna
  • Spa tub

Internet

  • Available in the villa: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car not required

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Breakfast available for a fee
  • Chef service
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 6 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Bidet
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Music library
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (limited availability)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Meal delivery service
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In the city center
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the ocean
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak on site
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • 1 unit
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 8,000 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 12:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 9:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets allowed
Welcoming dogs only
1 total (up to 50 lbs per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 30
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is not required for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

discover the Enchanted Islands in an Exclusive Environment
Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment.

About the area

Puerto Ayora

Located in Puerto Ayora, this villa is in the city center and on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Galápagos National Park and El Chato Ranch can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can check out Las Grietas. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

What's nearby

  • Playa de los Alemanes - 2 min walk
  • Malecon - 3 min walk
  • Las Ninfas Lagoon - 10 min walk
  • Tortuga Bay Beach - 4 min drive
  • Charles Darwin Research Station - 5 min drive

Getting around

  • Isla Baltra (GPS-Seymour) - 81 min drive

Restaurants

  • Golden Prague Galapagos - 8 min walk
  • 1835 Coffee Lab - 13 min walk
  • The Rock - 6 min walk
  • Limón Café Bar - 7 min walk
  • Il Giardino - 10 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Does :Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment. have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is :Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet.

What time is check-in at :Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment.?

Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.

What time is check-out at :Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment.?

Check-out is at 9:00 AM.

Where is :Discover the Enchanted Islands in an exclusive environment. located?

This family-friendly Puerto Ayora villa is located on the waterfront, just steps from Las Grietas and Galápagos National Park. Playa de los Alemanes and Academy Bay are also within 5 minutes.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 44 out of 50 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 50 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 50 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 50 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 50 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

James T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise
Furio was very helpful and made sure we were able to navigate the islands. He made sure we were picked up at the ferry on arrival, that we were returned safely to the ferry on our departure and arranged for our water taxi’s (very inexpensive). The house was large and very comfortable. The pool was very nice. We enjoyed watching crabs, herons and iguanas from the pool.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Margaret S., California, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique and amazing property in the Galapagos
There is so much to love about this house. Located immediately adjacent to the entrance to Las Grietas. Resident iguanas and sea lions. Breathtaking views of a lifetime. Furio (a local legend!) set us up with fantastic day trips and advice. To reach the house, either take a water taxi and then a 15 minute hike or arrange a boat. There is no road. Drinking water costs extra. A wonderous and surprising adventure for able bodied guests.
Stayed 15 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Greg S., Houston

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful, one of a kind experience…
Casa di Furio is not just a beautiful resort-like villa on the water, it is a home with charm and an amazing host. Furio made our stay wonderful. He helped us arrange our tours of the islands and provided the insight of a local patriarch to Puerto Ayora. He baked us his famous Italian bread. He made sure we were happy each day we were there.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

J M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful stay in Galapagos
The property was a great spot for our family to unwind after a day of exploring the island. The trade off of being right in town vs a short boat ride away was worth it for the quiet and seclusion. Furio was a helpful host and arranged transportation and tours for us that worked out well.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022

8/10 Good

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Galopagos archipelago
FURIO was very accommodating, arranged for taxi’s both water and land, his relationships and knowledge of the area allowed us one of the best boat tours. His housekeeper spent 6 hours a day keeping the house clean and in good order.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021

8/10 Good

Joanna O., North of Boston

Great trip to Galapagos!
We really enjoyed our time on Santa Cruz. Furio’s home was located in a great waterfront location with eas
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Ash P., Manhattan

Liked: Cleanliness
Great for families
Loved Furio’s Casa, easily the best house in Puerto Ayora. Loved the sea lions and iguanas on the private dock. Furio arranged a guide who managed our day trips, rides and taxis. The house was cleaned through the day and was ample space for 2 families with a well stocked kitchen, living and pool area. Furio was very helpful throughout- love the little bar he has around the back of the house which is on the way to Las Grietas 5 mins away, where we were able to snorkel in complete solitude in the early morning sunshine. Great stay, highly recommended. —-Ash, Manhattan
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

April T.

The best place to stay!
Not a better spot on the island! Furio is the perfect host. Our travel plans that he helped arrange went without a hitch. He had excellent recommendations and contacts. Plus, he met us at town to escort us to his home via water taxi and we arrived to find a freshly baked loaf of Italian bread waiting for us. The pool was a wonderful amenity! It was a trip of a lifetime and my children will never forget it!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

Janit Dini B., New Rochelle, NY

Perfect location, beautiful and charming house and wonderful hospitality.
We arrived to this charming house after a very stressful flight delay. Once we stepped foot in the house all our anxiety was gone as we were welcomed to Furio's delicious three course gourmet meal, plus home-made bread. Furio arranged all our tours and needed transportation for us to explore the these amazing islands. This was a perfect way to enjoy all the beauty of the Galapagos, including having easy access to town by water taxi. We highly recommend Furio's house as a perfect way to see the Galapagos.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

At home with Signore Valbonesi - a most genuine stay
Forget everything you know about grand luxury hotels with bell boys and uniformed porters. and immerse yourself in Furio's world. With over 40 years of Galapagos experience your host knows what to do, where to go, with whom and when. It's a home away from home. Enigmatic Italian furniture and interior design pieces have been brought to this remote corner of the world offering the visitor a memorable stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018