The Retreat, path to beach St. John

Perfect privacy and the sweeping drama of magnificent ocean views from every room of this villa harmonize with The Retreat’s natural setting. Perched hillside just 110 feet above the live coral reefs, white sands and soothing surf sounds of pristine Dreekets Bay on St. John’s unspoiled east end, The Retreat is sequestered behind an electronic gate. The landscaped entry courtyard, set with a pergola, lap pool, hot tub and a terrace for sunning and relaxation, welcomes its privileged guests into an aura of tranquil serenity and beauty swept by cooling tradewinds. Its three pavilions, washed with cool green hues, are all on one level and sited to overlook one of the most stunning ocean views in the Caribbean – a sparkling, long-distance panorama of Sir Francis Drake Channel with the verdant island of Tortola beyond. Two equal, air-conditioned king bedroom/bath suites flank either side of the main pavilion, and both offer a loft with extra-long double beds (accessed by wooden pull-down ladders). The baths feature romantic outdoor showers, from which the spectacular views can be enjoyed in complete privacy. This lovely hideaway is finished with rich slate tiles, handcrafted mahogany cabinetry, and teak and mahogany furniture and accent pieces from Indonesia, Burma and Thailand. The well-equipped kitchen in the main pavilion offers ocean vistas. Each pavilion features a unique and convenient choice of roll-down electronic screening or glass-paneled doors which cover the entire front of each pavilion – they roll down at the touch of a button – or leave them in their up positions and enjoy the view from the balconies outside and the drama and complete openness of The Retreat. There are seasonal papaya, passion fruit, banana, lemon and lime trees in the garden for you to pick and enjoy. Outside one bedroom pavilion is a slate-lined outdoor beach shower and a wooden staircase which leads to a trail zigzagging down to Haulover Bay. Frommer’s Guide deems Haulover Bay one of the best snorkeling destinations on St. John (locals say it’s THE best), and on a lucky day you might spot dolphins frolicking, or a sea turtle. A few feet down this shoreline from the trail, a lovely crescent of a white sand and rock beach curves around crystal-clear waters – stunning beauty and solitude await you. The Retreat offers the ideal combination of elegant luxury and relaxing seclusion, and will refresh your spirit with its aura of natural harmony and peace…a very special place.

Tax 12.5%