*Cactus House* (4 bedroom / 5 bath) is a 'World Class' property offering ultimate views over the Caribbean on a peaceful wooded hillside overlooking Jolly Harbour, beaches and the ocean. Providing absolute privacy - ideal for groups but also very popular with couples who want an exclusive hideaway with discreet privacy and maximum space. Fully licenced, it was officially voted to be in the top 10% of vacation properties in the world by Tripadvisor.
Conveniently situated a walking distance to Jolly Harbour complex, the 5* Sugar Ridge properties and beaches, Ideal if you want sheer luxury, serenity and absolute privacy, yet just across the road from restaurants and two of the best beaches on Antigua. Also convenient for the Jolly Harbour shops, golf, supermarket and many restaurants. Plus being situated next door to Sugar Ridge, you have instant access to their restaurant, gym, spa or beauty facilities.
This property is in a league of its own perched on a massive stone plinth, built with the sole aim to accommodate up to 8 guests in absolute comfort, plus offering unrivalled 360' views of the Caribbean & local countryside. The infinity pool here is the largest in the area and house has been designed around the Caribbean climate and thus primarily for ‘al fresco’ living.
Just a short walk across the road are two of the best beaches on Antigua - of different characters, but both having pristine white powder sand, pure blue water and good beach restaurants. Jolly Beach is the more commercial of the two with motorised water sports, vendor’s stalls and several beach restaurants. Valley Church is much quieter however also has a beach restaurant for all day drinks & meals, but is backed by lakes and greenery.
The location of Cactus is just 20 minutes from the capital St Johns or a 30 minute private transfer from the Airport - this is a complimentary service we provide guests.
At Cactus each of the bedrooms is oversized; naturally all have ceiling fans and individual air conditioning, plus the modern bathrooms all have large walk-in showers and /or bath. The kitchen is huge, having expansive marble worktops, top end appliances and comprehensively equipped for self catering. A professional private chef is available for lunch and dinner.
Cactus was designed with emphasis on outdoor living, so has external dining areas, BBQ's on the patio, large pool deck which give the choice of sun and shade areas. Your privacy and solitude is guaranteed as you are spoilt with the space available - indoor living amounts to over 4000 sq ft then another 6000 sq ft of the three gardens and terraces. Also you have the largest private infinity pool in the area to swim or lounge taking in the ocean views.
Upstairs Cactus has a large covered terrace and the BBQ deck. Indoors there are dining areas, lounge and kitchen, all having wide double doors to the exterior patios - these designed to maximise the natural light and the wind's cooling.
The lounge has free unlimited high speed 4G broadband and WiFi for your use.
Cactus's infinity pool deck is equipped with comfortable loungers -for young children the pool has a shallow side section and at night you can programme the underwater lighting to give a light show of your choice . If you want to be more active, the upper garden has outdoor table tennis and darts. The mature gardens are extensive, filled with lush vegetation, plenty of flowers and many palms plus of course an abundance of cacti !
For your reassurance we have Hazel our 24 / 7 Estate Manager , who will look after your needs, great or small during your stay. On arrival all guests are met at the airport for complimentary private transfers by 'Lava' our driver, then at the Villa by Hazel. Both Hazel and Lava are at your disposal, should you have any problems, need any transportation or general advice. This 'on demand' concierge service is virtually beyond limit and almost any special requirements can be organised.
Due to its hillside location, Cactus is unsuitable for wheelchair users or those with walking difficulties. If mobility is a problem we can suggest an alternative nearby property -please ask.
It is simple to get around the Island by either car, taxi or bus, which incidentally drive on the right hand side. The Capital St Johns is home of the cruise liners and international shopping can be found in the newly restored Heritage Quay. Only a few yards away, you walk back into history with the old character laden buildings and streets; all safe to walk unlike some Caribbean destinations. In the countryside the many abandoned sugar mills act as a reminder of bygone trade and slavery. Nelsons dockyard is a fully restored working harbour which has won many awards and only a short distance away is Shirley heights and its colonial fort , with special views over both the sea and countryside. Also worth a visit is Betty's Hope which was Antigua’s first sugar estate, some restoration of the ruins have taken place and the Mill is now totally intact.
Alternatively if relaxing on a sandy beach is your preference, you will be spoilt for choice, as it is reputed that Antigua has a different beach for everyday of the year, some of the best being just a short walk away from Cactus House.
Apart from the beaches there is plenty to do so perhaps try :-
Private Yacht Charter can be arranged for those staying at Cactus House. This is a charter for just your party on a superb modern 50ft yacht with an experienced crew, who pander to your every need, including lunch with fine wines. Throughout the day all food and drink is complimentary. Sunbathe on the deck, relax in the shade, snorkel & swim off the side, ride the dingy and perhaps take a turn at the helm if you wish - this is wonderful day of pampering.
For younger ones there is the Donkey sanctuary which is a simple establishment, but captivating for children who can ‘adopt’ the donkey of their choice. A small fee will make them eligible for a certificate & photo, plus regular updates on their new pet. The sanctuary cares for abandoned, injured and abused animals from all over the island and is a charity. Entry is free. Alternatively there is a private island reserve with giant tortoises, which also hosts iguanas, parrots and other endangered Caribbean species. Additionally there is a rare chance to swim with Sting-rays at Stingray City . A high speed boat takes you out to a sea pontoon, where you can stand or swim in the warm shallow water. Usually about 30 - 40 rays come in from the Ocean and you can then both stroke, hold and feed them. This is a well organised professional excursion, totally safe for children.
During your stay and to guarantee you the most memorable of holidays, almost any specific needs can be catered for - so please let us have your request and turn fantasy into luxurious reality.
