A Calming Paradise
Submitted: March 28, 2008
Stayed: March 2008
A beautiful property with exquisite gardens, a large, historic main house, and cozy modern poolhouse. This property is perfect for large gatherings.
Our party included 6 adults ranging from 25-50 yrs. in age, as well as two toddlers, for an extended stay. Plenty of room and privacy for all. Large bedrooms, a great kitchen (actually there are 2 kitchens) with a good range of serving and cooking ammenities, more than enough space for entertaining in the main house...and on the verandas, patio and pool deck. A gardener's joy to explore the grounds of this tropical Eden - and pretty fascinating for little children too.
Just outside Old Town Key West the culture, shopping and cuisine of Duvall St. are a few minutes away. (Car or bike rental is recommended.) Large grocery stores, other major retailers etc. are close by. Some pre-trip research on Key West and the Florida Keys, maps, attractions, galleries, shopping is invaluable; be sure to bring them along. The butterfly conservatory, the galleries and restaurants of upper Duvall, and at least one sunset at the pier are highly recommended.
An onsite caretaker was 'transparent', attentive, and acommodating. The property was clean, well maintained, and is as described. It is secure and gated. The surrounding properies are also well maintained, and include mostly homes, a school, a landscape nursery and a government building. Atlantic beaches are within a short walking distance.
A colorful history of Hemingway's years in Key West accompanies this property. A small library of reference material on the property history is available to guests. We suggest reading about his life in Key West before your stay and perhaps one of his novels while you're here. Total immersion!
A highly recommended roost for a vacation, this beautiful estate has its own romance, elegance and liveliness built into its bones. See the rest of Key West or don't bother to budge during your stay. It's easy to lose yourself (or find yourself !) in this paradise.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Girls Getaway,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 43/44
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
No
