Description

Bananaquit, Anse Chastanet, Soufriere, Saint Lucia

Another amazing home to rent in St Lucia

Situated on the sought-after hillside between Anse Chastanet Beach and Soufriere lies Bananaquit with one of the most iconic and beautiful views in the Caribbean. This home looks out over the sea with commanding views out across to the island of St Vincent in the south, with open coastline in front, where whales have been spotted from the main terrace, and a view of Anse Chastanet bay to the north. The house sits in this community of hillside homes in lush surroundings with majestic views of the world famous Pitons from every level. Its extensive living space and open front incorporate the view into the design of the house.

Built in 1965, the house was inhabited from 1974 for many years by the acclaimed Scottish artist Alan Davie, whose works can be admired in the Tate, Metropolitan Museum of Art and many of the world’s top galleries. The house was fully renovated in 2003. In 2013 a further 2 bedrooms were built underneath the main structure with a 35ft infinity pool and sun terrace to create an extra level for living and relaxation. A solar photovoltaic system with batteries has recently been installed at the house which will considerably reduce the home’s energy bill.

Bananaquit House is a classic St Lucian villa with original greenheart hard wood floors throughout and granite stone terraces in an open-plan living style. The home is built over four floors with the top floor affording the most spectacular view as a living space and takes the form of an expansive open-fronted gallery that extends along the full width of the house and comprises an open-plan living and dining area with fantastic views over the sea towards the majestic Pitons. In order to make the most of the unique view, the entire front of the gallery comprises a fold-away wall made up of oversized, shuttered jalousie doors that open up and allow for outside/inside living.

The house is situated within a garden planted and designed by the original owner in 1965. It includes a stunning variety of flowers and plants, including vivid bougainvillea and lobster claws as well as trees such as mango, cashew, soursop, citrus and coffee. The garden offers a number of shady peaceful areas as well as attractive steps, terraces and pathways to explore. Hummingbirds,
finches, warblers, kingbirds and, of course, bananaquits are among the regular feathered residents enlivening the garden with their songs. The garden blends perfectly into its tropical surroundings and the environment.

The main beach and world famous snorkeling at Anse Chastanet is a 10-15 minute stroll through the garden and down the road. Soufriere, which can be easily reached by car or on foot offers excellent restaurants at Sugar Beach and Ladera Resort for instance and excursions like rainforest tours, hot springs, waterfalls, mineral baths and the Diamond Botanical Gardens. There are several grocery stores and a regular open-air market selling fresh local produce. Villas in Soufriere are in demand for vacation rentals, and Bananaquit boasts an excellent holiday rental history while also being a home ideal for a large family.