Villa Description

Estate Belvedere is located behind an electronic gate on a magnificent four acres. Entrance is past a fenced formal garden complete with fountain. The property transforms guests into a part of St. Croix's Danish history of centuries past.

The centerpiece of Estate Belvedere is the sugar mill dating back to 1763 where sugar cane was refined into precious sugar and the molasses into Cruzan rum. Other ruins from the old plantation still grace this lovely property.

Extensive historical research was done by the current owners in both St. Croix and Danish archives who then spent several years carefully and lovingly restoring the property.

The property offers unique history, spectacular landscaping on spacious grounds and beautiful interiors.

The sugar mill still remains the central gathering place. Entry into the mill opens to an art gallery in the round, complete with the old Danish brick floor. The gallery showcases the owner's collection of Caribbean art and historical memorabilia. Tucked just off to the side of this area is a powder room complete with a hand painted mural.

The living area, gourmet kitchen and home office area were built to encompass the curve of the sugar mill and open through French doors onto an expansive furnished terrace looking out to the sea. The terrace provides a wonderful spot to enjoy sunset cocktails and stargazing when night falls.

A covered pavilion is located just off the kitchen on this terrace and offers a handy pass through bar to the kitchen for easy serving as well as providing a shaded and cool spot just perfect for alfresco dining.

Three air-conditioned bedroom/bath suits are located on two levels of the mill. They have exotic names such as Sunrise, Hibiscus and Jungle and offer luxurious privacy.

Outside, there is a staircase that winds up and around the sugar mill to its very top. Here spectacular long distance vistas may be enjoyed in every direction. A hand painted mural maps the various islands visible in the distance from this high vantage point.

Off to one side of the Estate are old plantation ruins of long ago draped with vivid bougainvillea. Part of this area has been converted into a lovely patio for conversation or quiet reading.

The Estate Belvedere's extensive and beautifully preserved ruins include a classic Caribbean arms staircase with graceful arches framing the lush gardens and providing a fascinating look at sturdy Danish stonework dating over 200 years ago.

Accessed via one of the old stone staircase is the Tower Building which is a modern two story pavilion with two spacious, air-conditioned suites (the Ocean and Coral Suites) and each suite has a spacious living area, full kitchen and two queen sized beds. These colorful and nicely equipped suites are perfect for families.

Just beyond, is the Garden Cottage which was built as a new extension of the ruins. It's entry patio incorporates some of the old stone rubble walls. A very private suite, it is air-conditioned and offers a sitting room with a small kitchen and bedroom with queen sized bed.

Cole, the Estate's caretaker, lives close to the entrance of the property in a separate cottage.

Walkways connect the buildings and the ruins as they meander under tall, shady trees and glorious lush tropical gardens that are fenced by elegant wrought iron. Riots of vivid color from the many exotic flowers and plans are evident across the green manicured lawns.

The Pool House and large private swimming pool are situated just beyond the sugar mill and Tower Building. The pool area and surrounding lawn area are screened by tress and shrubbery and provide complete privacy.

Estate Belvedere is a masterpiece and an important bookmark in St. Croix's colorful history.

The property provides every modern convenience and amenity with classic Caribbean decor and yet the sprit of the early island days still prevails.

Estate Belvedere is a perfect choice for families or large groups and will provide an elegant and unique setting. A very special property-5 stars.

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