This is the view that Islands magazine chose as the top spot in the world for viewing the sunrise on the first day of the new millennium, expanding outward from the hilly East End of St John, to the many cays and islets of the British Virgin Islands to the east, to the romance of the Eastern Caribbean lying beyond.
Accommodation Options: Stonegarden Cottage offers the privacy and views of a villa at the cost of a cottage. The upper and lower levels can be rented together, accommodating up to six guests. The two levels are connected by a gated outside staircase, with separate parking and access for privacy -- both are detailed further below.
On-site Nature Trails: The best of St. John's natural beauty and astonishing biodiversity lies on-site at your doorstep. A trellised archway of hanging tropical flowers greets you as you enter and walk down a short stone stairway to the front door.
The large (2/3 acre) hillside property is an ecological wonderland that invites wandering -- beautiful hand-crafted stone paths and trails on several different levels lead you through the lush hardwood foliage of Guavaberry Woods, where picturesque and unique ponds and gardens of orchids, frangipani, hibiscus and bougainvillea delight the eye.
Forest Sights and Sounds: Bird watching opportunities abound -- the red-tailed hawks that soar past close enough to see the barred markings on their backs, the blazing green crest of the hummingbirds, the yellow-breasted bananaquits known for their love of sugar. The sounds of the island forest surround the visitor throughout the day, from the soft cooing of the turtle doves in the morning to the sweet chirruping of the little green 'Coqui' frogs at day's end.
Cool Retreat: Steady tradewinds, an easterly view and the lush surrounding forest make Stonegarden Cottage a comfortable tropical getaway year round - cool, quiet and peaceful.
The Upper Level: The master bedroom with queen-size bed and private bath has an expansive island view. The enclosed Caribbean 'garden shower' blends traditional stonework with the tropical environment. The fully-equipped, eat-in kitchen opens out onto the dining-deck, where one can eat a meal or just relax while watching the boats on Coral Bay Harbor and enjoying one of the most beautiful views in all the Caribbean, with an ever-changing light show of turquoise water and sun drenched islands. The living room offers sleeping accommodations for two adults or children on the comfortable full size sofa-bed, and has a separate full bath completed with garden shower and ample closet space. Walkways from the front door connect into the stone paths and trails of Guavaberry Woods.
Ski:
Amenities: (Upper Level), High-speed wireless Internet access. Cable TV with DVD and VCR, CD Player and CDs, Safe for Valuables, Full Kitchen (half-size refrigerator in Lower Level), Microwave, Cooking utensils provided, Filtered Drinking Water, Linens provided including Beach Towels, Beach Chairs, Coolers, Iron and Ironing Board (Upper Level only), Washer and Dryer (for quests staying 10 days or more), Optional Maid Service at extra cost (free for stays of 2 weeks or more), Gas BBQ Grill (Upper Level only), Child-safe Deck Railings, No Smoking.
Activities: Hiking on-site, on-site nature trail, National Park Hiking Trails and Beaches, Boat Rental, Water-skiing, Surfing, Kayaking, Para-sailing, Miniature Golf, Horseshoes (at Skinny Legs), Viewing of Wildlife John fauna), Horseback Riding, Dancing to Great Live Music, Sightseeing, Ruins and Petroglyphs, Nature Trails (above and below water), Short Ferry Rides to British Virgin Islands
Golf:
The Lower Level: For a couple looking for a combination of affordability and comfort, Stonegarden Cottage's downstairs unit is a perfect choice. Private and quiet, this charming apartment with stained-glass windows and beautiful views to the harbor is equipped with a fully stocked kitchenette -- 4-burner range with oven, microwave, refrigerator, and full size double-sink. Enjoy the comfortable amenities of a queen-sized bed, private bath with shower and dining table and chairs, as well as an outdoor dining deck with mosaic table and chairs and direct access to the trails of Guavaberry Woods. The apartment has its own separate entrance, driveway and parking space.
After a day on blazing white sand beaches or out on the glittering sea, it is delightful to return up the mountain to your forest retreat, savor a frozen drink while enjoying the view or gaze into a lily pond while hearing the breeze rustle the treetops.
Guest Book:
'Our visit to Stonegarden Cottage was 10 times better than we ever expected. It was truly wonderful !!!!! You had everything anyone could want and we were greeted and made to feel right at home right away...We covered the island during our week and you truly have the best view of anyone!!...Thank you again for a wonderful vacation in paradise.'
-- Jane from Lexington, KY
(contact her at janelange4@insightbb.com)
'The house surpassed our expectations in its location, comfort, tasteful decorating, kitchen facilities and luxurious bathrooms. The view was spectacular!... We loved sitting out on the deck
sipping our coffee in the morning and wine in the evening while looking over the bays and faraway islands....We are already thinking about how and when we can return and we will certainly recommend your cottage for anyone we know who heads your way!'
-- Anne from Iowa City, IA
(contact her at spencer@inav.net)
Other Activities:
hiking
Learn more about this vacation rental at the owner's website: