Under trees, the urban dweller might restore his troubled soul and find the blessing of a creative pause. –Walter Gropius
In the lush Sandy Lane Estate lies Happy Trees villa surrounded by over an acre of wooded land in the prestigious neighbourhood. From the time you set foot on the property there is a calm that sets over you.
A big part of this feeling is due to the soundtrack that comes courtesy of copious amount of trees swaying in the breeze. A few steps past the koi pond you arrive at the main entrance. As you enter, you are greeted by light and the sheer openness of the residence. With just one step inside the front door you can see past the living room to the patio, directly out to the shimmering pool and surrounding grounds. From the décor to the design and curated art you immediately recognize Happy Trees is effortless luxury.
The property housed a large estate for well over 40 years until it underwent major renovations after the current owners bought it in 2008. They enlisted the services of famous designer, Jose Antonio Sanchez, who sought to create a home that seamlessly mended the inside and outside living spaces. The new house has three bedrooms in addition to the master suite and each bedroom has its own private terrace. The master bedroom includes a study, convenient for watching TV without interrupting your partner or peacefully doing some light reading before you start out on your daily island adventure. Comfort comes easy in the spacious rooms. Ramps are thoughtfully placed to make the house more accessible to those in need.
The house feels custom designed for entertaining, both indoors and outdoors. There is a large dining table that seats ten surrounded by floor to ceiling windows. The spacious patio over looking the pool and gardens also provides ample seating for large groups. You will find a bar and grill area a few steps away.
The grounds are expansive and verdant. Every vantage point inside yields a view with splashes of varying shades of greens and browns. The impeccably manicured trees include local fruits like avocado, mango and Bajan cherry. It is quite a treat to step out on your en-suite terrace and pick fresh fruit for your breakfast. There are also several large granddaddy trees that offer plenteous amounts of shade.
The centerpiece of the outdoor space is the sprawling salt-water pool. Whether you are an avid swimmer aiming to rack up your lap count or a casual lounger looking for a quick dip between cocktails, you will be drawn to the pool. The poolside gazebo can house a casual alfresco lunch or mid afternoon drinks to quench the thirst of sun-kissed bathers. In the evening, guests enjoy evening cocktails around the dancing flames of the fire pit.
When you book the villa, a housekeeper and cook are included to look after you throughout your stay. Onica, the housekeeper, has cared for the property and its guests for the past five years and adds her signature island warmth to the home to remind you that you are in Barbados. “I just love people and going the extra mile to make their stay memorable and enjoyable,” she says. If you would like to cook for yourself, then the kitchen with large marble countertops equipped with state-of-the-art appliances will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
The property offers a special experience to all types of guests. Couples appreciate its seclusion, and the spacious and safe gardens are ideal for families looking to let young children explore the fruit trees and roam in the shade. A nice perk of staying on the Sandy Lane Estate is the Property Owners’ Beach Facility located beside the Sandy Lane Hotel. There you will have your own cabana, lounge chairs, an umbrella and changing rooms. Of course there is also a bar offering refreshments for your time at the beach.
Happy Tree villa has earned quite a reputation with guests looking for privacy, unparalleled service and comfort. Repeat guests rave about delicious meals, amazing staff and the great experience of staying at the villa. This oasis is the perfect place to take that creative pause and restore your soul.
