The official residence of the Governor of the British Virgin Islands from 1998 to 2004, very private Allamanda Estate is situated on a breezy hilltop amongst lush, flowering gardens within prestigious Little Mountain Estate, and commands expansive wraparound vistas of ocean and green islets and cays.

The tiled formal entry hall takes you to the traditional drawing room, elegantly-furnished with sink-into sofas and chairs, the large kitchen, the formal dining room, the very spacious air-conditioned king master bedroom with an ensuite bath, and a smaller bedroom/bath with twins (or one king, if you wish), and finally to a sweeping native stone terrace framed by wide arches and tropical foliage and overlooking Beef Island's south side and beyond - perfect for sunset cocktails and lively ping pong competitions.

On the other side, the hallway opens to the sunny pool and fountain, beautifully set like jewels within a stone and tile terrace and bordered with graceful palms and island flora.

On one end of the pool terrace is a shady covered verandah furnished with cushioned wicker for reading and relaxation and tables for casual dining and games.

Allamanda House's guest pavilion is adjacent to the pool verandah, ensuring guests' privacy and comfort, and offers two spacious, air-conditioned king bedroom/bath suites with a convenient small kitchenette between them.

The hallway offers a home office desk complete with a desktop computer with internet access and fax machine. Original artwork and potted plants enhance this villa's gracious charm.

Allamanda Estate is the grand dame of villas, offering old-world charm and quiet seclusion, but you may explore old plantation ruins nearby, or continue to Long Bay Beach below, only a few minutes' drive away.

It's also an ideal location for weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries and family get-togethers. Special arrangements may be made in advance for these special occasions, and you may also arrange for your own private chef, nanny, massages and day-spa services.

Amenities:

5 cable TVs, DVD players, VCR, CD player, radios, movie + music collections, books, games, A/C in all BRs; computer with DSL line, printer + copier, answering machine + fax machine. Covered pool verandah offers cable TV and wet bar with mini-fridge, icemaker + gas grill.

Guest pavilion has coffeemaker, microwave + mini-fridge; jacuzzi tub in master suite, hair dryers; full-size wooden baby crib or nylon Pack 'n' Play crib/playpen (with your advance notice) + highchair; automatic generator, dishwasher, laundry.

Your first night's simple arrival dinner with wine + next morning's continental breakfast are included in Allamanda Estate's rental rate.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Don Hebert

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