From Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to St. John, we have always loved being near the ocean and outdoors. Over a period of 13 years we were lured here by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, the trade wind breezes and the Virgin Islands National Park , mountains and valleys. Finally we decided we wanted to live on this little island and share it with family, friends and like minded souls. Bordeaux Mt., the highest point of the island with its incomparable views of the British Virgin Islands and the Sir Francis Drake Channel, located right in the center of the island, seemed like the perfect place. After three years on the island we began to build our dream cottage. Every step was a reason for celebration and every detail a delicious exercise in creativity. We wanted to make a little private paradise for two. Many of the pieces decorating the house are crafted by local artists and make the cottage a special place.

Monika Aranha purchased this cottage in 2011

Easily accessed by a mostly paved and relatively flat road that winds through the rain forest, Bordeaux offers privacy, peace and spectacular moon rises or sunrises. At night the singing forest and gentle breezes make it a one of a kind retreat. From it you can hike the extensive trail network of the Park all the way down to some of it's most beautiful beaches. Both Cruz Bay and Coral Bay with its locally owned and operated shops and restaurants are only 10 to 15 minutes away by car. There are many perfect days that start and end at Sea Cottage. First a quiet yoga practice at sunrise on the covered porch. For a good workout nothing better than an early morning hike down Bordeaux Mt. Trail to the white sandy Little Lameshur Beach, followed by a swim and snorkel around Europa Point. For the more water activity minded, Cinnamon Beach with it's many water sport rental options is just a short 10 minute drive away. And those who just wish to relax and soak in the sun can follow the North Shore road to any one of its spectacular beaches.

Vacation for us is about sharing in each other's company and enjoying nature. It is time to distance ourselves from the bustle of the world - to have time to listen to music, watch a movie together or have a moonlit dinner on the porch without the distractions of modern communication. During the day there is so much to do just a short distance away whether on foot or by car. Sea Cottage is the ideal place to wake up in and to end the day - the fragrance of the bay rum trees after a summer sprinkle; the singing of the birds during daytime and the sounds of the forest at night; swinging in the hammock while watching the moon rise over Virgin Gorda. It's a place to fall in love all over again.