Viejo Fox is everything advertised. We (grandparents, parents and 8 yr old) had five most enjoyable nights in mid April. We loved the house and the area, even being there in a shoulder season. We had no issues and, if we return to the area, we would definitely lease again.
Sarah, the owner, and Federica, the local property manager, were extremely helpful prior to our arrival, as well as, during our stay. The house is about one mile (2 km) out of Jose Ignaico and about a block from the beach in a low density development. The beach is wide, deserted and beautiful with wide area of rolling sand dunes. If one walks or drives the gravel road beyond the house, within a half mile, you’re in ranch country with broad, lovely vistas. A few miles north is a large lagoon for fishing, kite surfing and bird watching (and flamingoes depending on season).
The house is warm and welcoming and, as one steps into the upstairs area, the ocean view through the full length, floor to ceiling glass wall is stunning (in fairness, in spite of looking over the top of several houses and the sand dunes beyond). The opposite wall of the living area is also all glass. The open feeling is such that one does not tire of it.
The house is very spacious and fully equipped if one wishes to prepare meals. We used the kitchen and the outside parrilla. The parrilla has a nice dining and bar area just off the pool. The living area, bedrooms and baths were spacious and attractively decorated. The roof deck is incredible with great ocean views (living, kitchen and upstairs bedroom also have ocean views).
In terms of supplies, there is a small market in Jose (5 minutes) and a large market in La Barra (30 minutes). For dining out, we were there in shoulder season, so several of the highest rated restaurants had closed for the season (two within half mile if in season), but we had fantastic dinners and lunches during our stay at the so-called “second tier” places. We did not have a single disappointing meal.
The area is very safe and everyone we met were very friendly and helpful. We spent time on the beach, walked the community lanes, visited the lighthouse, relaxed by the pool, drove into La Barra/Manantailes and up to the lagoons, and made the hour drive out to Bodega Garzon (and Francis Mallman restaurant).
All in all, great house, great trip. We recommend very highly.