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Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views.

Photo gallery for Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views.

Sunrise Back Deck
The spirit of Fiddlewood.
Guest's refrigerator magnetic impressions.
Entrance
Entry deck past front door, seating & dining table, Weber Grill on right table.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Coral Bay
  • Place, Virgin Islands National Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Saltpond Bay
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Saltpond Bay Beach
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Airport, St. Thomas (STT-Cyril E. King)
    ‪88 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed and 1 Single Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views.

Fiddlewood Cottage is an affordable breezy, private, one bedroom (with AC), fully equipped, home on the undeveloped, quiet side of St. John. Nestled within the Virgin Islands National Park. Its location is short distances from the end of the bus line at Saltpond Bay entrance, with walking distance to Grootpan, Kiddle, and Lameshure beaches. Mature gardens, and large shade trees surround the cottage. A peace filled sanctuary where all creatures find comfort, except mosquitoes!!! 8 minute drive to Coral Bay for groceries, shopping and restaurants.

A VERY well equipped cottage comes with all amenities including:
Dish soaps, paper towels, toilet paper, all kitchen supplies, bath & beach towels, beach chairs, swim fins (masks not provided), outdoor gas grill, full size kitchen and drinking water is separately filtered at the kitchen sink. In addition to the great breezes, there are ceiling fans in every room with AC in the bedroom only.

SW deck with 2 lounge chairs for shaded morning coffee, sunset views to Grootpan Bay with the distant sounds of crashing waves & star filled skies devoid of light pollution. Dining inside on porch and outside in the garden. A perfect place for retreats, honeymoons & nature filled getaways. The light is always changing, magic and a plein air painters dream!

Fiddlewood's bedroom has a queen size bed, a queen pull out couch in the living room plus a single sleeping settee on the screened in porch overlooking Mandahl Pond's amazing bird life. Off road parking right to the front door. Dining on both the front and back decks.

There’s an additional 10’x10’ tent on a platform below Fiddlewood. Sleeps 2 on twin beds that converts into a king if needed. Has a fan, lights, and 2 side tables. There’s a short, lite path down to it. Additional costs apply.

WIFI provided and cell phone works best using WIFI mode. Breezy with living room that opens to screened in porch above Mandahl Pond for lounging, great bird watching, sunsets over Grootpan Bay.

Many books in the library highlighting local flora, fauna and sea creatures as well as an eclectic array of other interests. Hiking maps and board games too.

I have my quiet frequency practice in an adjacent cottage. Both space have separate entrances so privacy is maintained.

Affordable, quiet, peaceful, comfortable, unpretentious living in the Caribbean is what we offer to the traveler who wants to get away far, far from the maddening crowds.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 9:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
2 children max.
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
$200 Event fee. Extra tables, coolers available.
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Pets

Pets allowed: less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
With a $200 damage deposit. And $25/day per pet.
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Outside only.
When using sprayed personal body products: sunscreen, body oil, bug spray, etc. please apply outside only.
Body products that stain linens & towels will cost $75 Sheets, $4 Washcloth, $6 Hand Towel, $8 Bath, $25 Beach &will be deducted from Damage Deposit.
Lost beach chairs, fins, $45 will be deducted from Damage Deposit.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 20
Note from host: $200 Event fee. Extra tables, coolers available.
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

St. John

Located in St. John, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Virgin Islands National Park and Trunk Bay can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Tortola Cruise Ship Port. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and hiking.
View more Cottages in St. JohnOpens in a new window
Map
Coral Bay

What's nearby

  • Virgin Islands National Park - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Kiddel Bay - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Saltpond Bay - 13 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Saltpond Bay Beach - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Little Lameshur Bay - 3 min drive - 3.1 km

Getting around

  • St. Thomas (SPB-St. Thomas Seaplane Base) - 100 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Skinny Legs - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Shambles - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Trunk Bay Beach Bar - ‬28 min drive
  • ‪Maho Crossroads - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Johnny Lime - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views.?

As of 4 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views. on 17 May, 2026 start from S$344, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views.?

Checkout is at 9:00 AM.

Where is Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views. located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument and Virgin Islands National Park. Saltpond Bay and Saltpond Bay Beach are also within 15 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Helen O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a fantastic view of the ocean, salt pond and flamingos from the house. Very quiet, peaceful location. Mary had provided great information before the trip, was quickly responsive to any questions and greeted us at check in. The place was perfect for our needs.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was wonderful. The home was clean and comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cottage

Awesome
Stayed 28 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian O.

It was perfect

It was a quiet, relaxing, all natural place. The best of what real St. John is.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful spot!

We loved our vacation in this beautiful cottage! The location was perfect for easy access to hiking and snorkeling/swimming. Many national park trails are walking distance from the house, as are several snorkeling sites. We greatly enjoyed snorkeling in Groopan and Kiddle Bays, close to the cottage, and exploring the park trails. The cottage was very well outfitted, and the garden and views are inspiring! Thank you Mary for the perfect vacation!
Stayed 12 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pearl C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Oh St. John. Our home away from home!

Mary was a wonderful host. She was in constant communication- before, during and after our stay. Always available, and checked in during the frequent power outages that have been occurring throughout STT and STJ. Mary's house is cozy with a wonderful view and fully stocked with all the amenities. Thank you for the warm welcome and stay, Mary!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Neal S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A colorful West Indies feel

The flora and fauna (bird sanctuary) here surround a quaintly-decorated cottage, giving one a true feel for the West Indies. Tucked away from the bustling tourism one finds on the opposite end of St.John, this place is a peaceful retreat, with everything a family needs for a fun vacation. Salt Pond Bay and Little Laneshur Bay are closeby, and we found then to be great beaches with awesome snorkeling.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eva G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful private cottage

This is a lovely cottage in a private spot on the quiet side of St. John. It is very well equipped and comfortable. You get a view of the pond and the bay, enjoy the breezes, and relax! Mary is a superb host. She has thought of everything to make your stay the very best. There are beach chairs, a tent, flippers for snorkeling, etc. etc. Books and games for indoor entertainment. One caution- make sure to rent a Jeep so you can get in the final road to the cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing week in paradise

Fiddlewood cottage was the perfect spot for the relaxing, quiet week on St John my husband and I were craving. The location, just past Salt Pond, minutes to Lamshure, is away from all the crowds in Cruz Bay, but close enough to Coral Bay to easily get to the market, restaurants, and from there North Shore beaches. The cottage itself is adorable, squeaky clean, and cozy. The decks are perfect for dining, relaxing, and stargazing away from the town lights. We will definitely be returning!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Fiddlewood Cottage

My travel partner and I stayed for 12 days at this artfully decorated, immaculate, and well equipped cottage. The kitchen had any spice, bowl, and pan we would ever need. The beds were comfy with views galore to the National Park and Grootpan Bay. Outside the gorgeous plant and plentiful bird life surrounded the decks. Our superlative host Mary gave us great advice before we came and for our daily adventures. We will definitely book this cottage again in the future.
Stayed 11 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet and peaceful

Fiddlewood Cottage was a great stay away from the more populated, touristy areas of St John. The stars were bright, and the grounds were filled with flowers and plants. It was relaxing to watch all the hummingbirds and the sunsets in the quiet. The cottage was very clean and well equipped with kitchen supplies, towels, games, etc. The hostess, Mary, was very helpful and kept in touch as needed during the stay. Thanks for sharing your home away from home!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Claude S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charm, Comfort and Care

This was our second visit to Fiddlewood Cottage and it was better than ever. The post storm renovations made the place bigger, brighter and even more comfortable. The setting is peaceful and magical, even after the bumpy approach which is everywhere on St.John. Mary sent us tips before and during our stay and helped us enjoy our stay in more ways than we could count. The personal touches are quietly evident everywhere: the stocked kitchen, the impeccable bathroom, the beach equipment, island info, the lovely garden, etc. It is obvious that she cares deeply about the house and makes every effort to share her passion for it. Book early, go and enjoy a special vacation.
Stayed 9 nights in Jan 2020
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Lynn O.

Exceeded our Expectations

My husband and I spent a week, with my sister joining us later in the week. Everything about the house and locale is wonderful. The small house has everything you need, and the wrap around porch with living space on both sides makes for easy indoor/outdoor living. There is wonderful cross ventilation, with a view overlooking the large salt pond and a more distant view of the Caribbean. There is not a house to be seen from the cottage and the stars at night are awesome. The kitchen worked well and we did breakfast outdoors, late lunch after being out in the sun, and dinner at several local restaurants - Concordia Cafe for burgers, Lucy's for fish and steel band, Inidgo for fish tacos and live music, and Shipwreck Landing for fish and chips and live swing music. Mary has outfitted with useful beach chairs, fins, beach towels, and is extremely helpful in making recommendations for local places to snorkel, rent kayaks, and grocery shop. She is a real resource. Generally, the area is a bit off the beaten path, at the quiet end of the island (a good 35 minute drive from Cruz bay on windy, hilly roads) , with an old time feel. The south side bays were calm and protected from the winds, which made the snorkeling great. There is a short dirt road to the cottage, and you definitely want a four wheel jeep rental to negotiate some the of pot holes and rocks.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2017
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Margrit and doug p.

Amenities, location, Fiddlewood.......Perfection

March 14 - March 25 Ontario, Canada My husband and I landed in St. Thomas with no luggage. Quite stressful but Mary went out of her way to call and see what was going on. My cell phone was dying and couldn't call (of course my charger was in my luggage). I am also a huge coffee drinker and because of the late hour we bought nothing and I was already worried I would have no coffee or cream for the morning. Low and behold there was everything there for us. Stocked up with everything u could possibly need. No need to worry Mary had it covered. She checked up on us the next day about our luggage to make sure we were ok. Would I go back to Marys' Piece of Paradise? In a heartbeat and when I go back to St John it certainly will be to Fiddlewood. If you are looking for quiet, relaxation and peace, Fiddlewood is the place for you. If you love to snorkel, Salt Pond Beach ( 2 min away) is where you should go along with all the other beautiful beaches on this Island. Good shopping in Coral Bay and Calabash has the best fresh fish. All in all this was our best vacation in a long time and we have traveled to a lot of islands. Thank you Mary. Margrit and Doug
Stayed 11 nights in Mar 2016
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kimberlee M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peace at the end of a windy road

Everything about my experience with Mary and Estate Mandel exceeded my expectations. It had been years since I visited St John, and I never got over to the Coral Bay side, so I had a ton of questions. Communication before check in was easy and informative. The accommodations were very clean, peaceful, beautiful and the gardens lush! Each morning I woke up to watch the hummingbirds and chicks lap of the fresh rain water and nectar from flower to flower. The distant sound of the waves crashing in Grootpan Bay was soothing. In short- the setting is amazing and so peaceful- like you are the only ones on earth. The accommodations were wonderful- Mary and Les have thought of everything you could need- the kitchen well equipped, the bathroom was stocked with all the things you may have forgotten, plenty of water toys and beach needs- chairs, cooler, even frozen water bottles! The stars at night out on a show that was spectacular and it was fun watching ships and sailboats slide past our little bay. The bed was comfy, and the screened in porch, which could be used as a sleeping nook, came in handy at twilight. I can’t say enough about Mary as a host- she literally thought of everything including special needs I might have coming in from far away. Her suggestions for great snorkeling led to an amazing experience away from the crowds. I highly recommend a staying here if you want to ‘get away’ from it all but also have all the amenities of a fully stocked home. The work she is doing now to expand the sleeping capacity will make this villa so much fun for families or friends traveling together! A peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Kathy G.

A beautiful, peaceful stay

Fiddlewood is a quiet, beautifully decorated cottage that is perfect for a single person or couple that would like to be away from the hustle and bustle. Mary is amazing - she will not only meet you at the ferry, but take the time to get you fully situated at the cottage and orient you to your surroundings. She is available throughout your stay with advice, guidance, and help. The cottage is a 10-15 mn drive from Coral Bay, which in turn is about a 20-30 mn drive from Cruz Bay, so you may want to rent a car for your stay (rent the smallest, most nimble vehicle available - the roads are steep, narrow, and take some gravity defying turns - and fill up in Cruz Bay before you leave for Mary's). The entrance road to the cottage is a bit bumpy, but don't let that alarm you if you normally navigate in a world of pavement. You'll be fine. The cottage has an open floor plan and is delightfully airy and welcoming. The kitchen has everything you need, and there is a lovely market in Coral Bay where you can stock up on food and sundries. There is AC in the bedroom - Mary will program it for you so it will come on when you need it and turn off when you don't. There is a filter on the tap, so no need for bottled water; water conservation measures are practiced on the property, but Mary will show you what to do. The back porch is absolutely wonderful in the morning, with cool breezes and a lovely view. There is great snorkeling nearby, and Mary provides beach chairs, towels, noodles, fins ... all you'll need is a mask and snorkel. Don't spend so much time going to the famous sandy beaches that you miss the beautiful bays and hiking trails right near the cottage! (like I almost did). If you would like some quiet time in a beautiful place, consider Fiddlewood.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enchanted April

Perhaps you have never seen a flamingo beyond the confines of a zoo. Maybe you have never heard the subtle, secret sounds of nature as night falls in a garden. If you haven’t witnessed a cloud of hummingbirds feeding on a flowering cactus or watched a tree frog’s vigil on a rainy night you will be able to do so in Mary’s garden. St. John in April is the strangest mix of lush and arid. The stony road that leads to the cottage is the prelude to a garden where orchids cling to a tree that itself erupts into blooms that previously only existed in a book by Dr. Seuss. Cactus live cheek by jowl with blossoming perennials and palms. St John is full of magical contradictions. Water is precious here but St John blooms with proper stewardship. This cottage was private and quiet, immaculately kept and sweetly whimsical. You have every amenity necessary for comfort. Mary is a responsive and lovely host. Need a tent to shelter from sun at the beach? She provides it. Flippers? They are available, sunscreen? In a basket, along with cortisone for the occasional bug bite. Towels? Check. Shampoo? Absolutely! A grill? On the porch. Ice? Waiting for you in the freezer. Filtered water, every item one needs to cook a meal to enjoy after a long day on the sand. There will never be silence there – it is filled with the hum of life. Geckos, land crabs ,birds, frogs. At night? I think Mary even arranged for all those stars, as they are placed just so. Of course we will want to go back!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stacey K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet Island Getaway!

My boyfriend and I had a wonderful time at Mary’s place. We loved how remote and quiet it was, and we had beautiful views off the back deck. Definitely a great place to stay if you are looking for something less busy than Cruz Bay, and right by great hiking trails. Would love to come back again!
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marshall B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible Stay

Mary's place is incredible. It's one of the best VRBO's we've ever stayed in. The views from the cottage are incredible, and you're staying on a part where it feels like you have the entire island to yourself. Myself, my wife, and our infant daughter stayed there for a week around new years eve, and it was the perfect spot for us. We can only hope to return as soon as possible.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming cottage

We had a great time at the cottage. Tranquil, breezy and beautiful, you are at one with nature while you’re there. Mary provided everything that we could possibly need during our stay and was super helpful with recommendations. Would definitely go back again!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful, out of the way St. John retreat

I had come to St. John last-minute, joining my family, who was staying at a larger home nearby. Mary’s home is charming, remote, comfortable, and peaceful. There was the shady porch, the sunny deck, and the large patio, where you could get either sun or shade, depending on the time of day. Gorgeous gardens, a well-stocked home, and a welcoming owner all contributed to a perfect stay for me. In addition, I was about a 10-15 minute walk from three prime areas: Kiddel, Grootpan, and Saltpond Bays. I would highly recommend this home for an individual, couple, or very small group seeking quiet and solitude.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ann G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Cottage

Fiddlewood is an idyllic place to stay. Sun or shade any time of day from multiple decks, wonderful gardens and bird life, close to beaches. Plus, the best hosts ever. The cottage is very well equipped, but if there is anything else you need, Mary can help! Can't recommend a better place to stay.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fiddlewood Cottage Getaway

Our family had the most enchanting stay at Fiddlewood Cottage. The seclusion and natural beauty of this location was beyond our expectation and will keep us coming back. Mary, the property owner is wonderful, and takes great pride in her place. The cottage and gardens are beautifully kept with all of the details covered. Her guidance and suggestions were perfect throughout our visit with valuable local knowledge from the best car rental to the most amazing snorkeling just out the door. We are grateful for having found this place and for having one of our best family vacations here.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Justin R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peace at Fiddlewood

Fiddlewood was PERFECT for my wife and I! The house was clean and even more cute than the pictures show! It's secluded over Salt Pond with a beautiful view to watch the sunset. Mary was an absolute joy! She always communicated back quickly and was very helpful the entire time! She went out of her way to make sure we had the time of our lives! I highly recommend staying here to anyone who wants peace and to get away from the hustle and bustle! Truly one of the best experiences we've ever had!!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan B.

Sweet retreat with amazing views of paradise

We all loved staying at Fiddlewood cottage! The views of St John's unspoiled mountainous interior, the salt lagoon and bay beyond were gorgeous and lush. Every morning we awakened to birds and the humming of the bees in the pink pom-pom trees. For breakfast, we'd slice open fresh papaya. The cottage is very clean, comfortable and sweetly decorated. It has all the conveniences and yet a rustic feel which fits the remote side of the island. Beaches, hiking trails and great snorkeling are close at hand. This is truly a retreat for nature lovers who wish to escape the crowds.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2019

About the host

Hosted by Les Anderson

Host profile image
We are 40 + year full time residents of St. John and Fiddlewood Cottage will become our retirement home when we can no longer negotiate our 50 steps to our current home in East End. We are both artists and built our East End home plus did all of the remodeling at the cottage ourselves with aesthetics and comfort as our focus. Mary managed 10 successful vacation villas starting in 1986 and sold it in 1996. Having done the vacation rental dance for 10 years we are "old school" and believe those who visit are truly our guests and not just renters. We know what it takes to have our guests feel welcomed, comfortable and secure knowing we are here 24/7 to insure a great stay.

Why they chose this property

We purchased this property because it is flat land, has established gardens, totally private, walking distance to GREAT snorkeling beaches and is also waterfront. Completely different environment from our beach front, windward side property. The pond below the cottage is full of every variety of bird here in the Virgin Islands. We also love to garden and the property's topography with native vegetation is very inspiring. The contrasting environments is what we LOVE about St. John the most!

What makes this property unique

We saw Fiddlewood Cottage at 4:30 and bought it at 5:00 in July 2013. We are gardeners and the topography is perfect for our old age. Also, short, easy walking distances to beaches with GREAT swimming and snorkeling was another plus we were thrilled to find.Right above Mandahl Pond and sea views of the National Park insured we would never be looking at another house or resort. There are great breezes and the feeling of being surrounded by a sanctuary full of wildlife is heavenly! It's a short 8 minute drive to Coral Bay, grocery stores and nightlife. The quiet, serene atmosphere is a huge contrast to many other neighborhoods on the island, especially now with all of the building going on post Hurricane Irma. In addition, being on this side of the island where the Atlantic and Caribbean waters come together are nutrient rich so sea life abounds. The reefs had some damage but nothing comparison to the Northshore or East End beaches. Especially in off season, one can have beaches all to themselves in this part of the island. Truly a rare piece of property we were blessed to find!

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