The Heron: Peaceful East Hill Villa in Pensacola, Near Beaches and Downtown

Welcome to Velia Villas!

My name is Alistair McKenzie, and I am delighted to host you during your stay in my beloved hometown of Pensacola. As someone who values meaningful connection, creativity, and the art of hospitality, I’ve poured my heart into creating Velia Villas as a serene, luxurious retreat where guests can unwind, recharge, and feel truly cared for.

As a husband and father to three wonderful children, family is at the center of my life. It’s taught me the importance of creating spaces where people feel welcome and at ease—qualities I strive to bring to every aspect of Velia Villas. When I’m not hosting, you can find me reading, writing poetry or essays, and engaging in relational practices like Authentic Relating and Circling, which nurture deep, meaningful connections with others. These practices, along with my work as a philosophical counselor, inform my approach to hospitality: treating each guest with care, attentiveness, and respect.

I view hosting through the lens of the Japanese concept of omotenashi, which goes beyond service to embody selfless hospitality—anticipating guests’ needs and ensuring every detail enhances their experience. From the moment you arrive at Velia Villas, my goal is to provide you with a space where you can fully relax and savor your time here.

I take great pride in sharing the charm of this city. Whether it’s recommending a favorite local coffee shop, pointing you toward the best beaches, or suggesting a quiet spot for reflection, I’m here to help you discover the best of Pensacola. East Hill, where Velia Villas is located, is a particularly special neighborhood—it’s vibrant and central to so many of Pensacola’s highlights.

Whether you’re here to explore, reconnect, or simply unwind, I hope your stay provides the comfort, inspiration, and peace you deserve. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions—I’m here to ensure your time in Pensacola is nothing short of wonderful.

Warm regards,

Alistair McKenzie

Nestled in the heart of Pensacola, East Hill is a neighborhood like no other—a vibrant blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and a welcoming community spirit. Known for its tree-lined streets, charming homes, and central location, East Hill offers the perfect mix of tranquility and convenience, making it an ideal base for exploring Pensacola.

Within a mile of Velia Villas, you’ll find an array of local gems, including cozy coffee shops (Good Day Darling and Jitterbug), craft breweries (The Burrow and Alga), wine boutiques (East Hill Bottleshop), and diverse restaurants (The Burrow, Ozone’s Pizza, Cactus Flower, Tacos Mexicano, Brown Bagger). We also have the world’s best gelato (Lamonte Gelato) and sandwiches (A Mano Panino). East Hill has something to satisfy every palate.

Haircut? (East Hill Barbershop and Green Room Barbershop) Yoga/Pilates? (Wild Lemon and East Hill Expressive Arts). Drop in for a CrossFit workout? (Revolt Fitness).

Nature lovers will adore East Hill’s green spaces. Bayview Park is a local favorite, offering breathtaking views of Bayou Texar, paddleboard and kayak rentals, tennis courts, and picnic areas. It’s the perfect spot for adventures, family outings, or a peaceful stroll along the water. The neighborhood is also home to several parks, ideal for quiet moments or playful afternoons with the kids.

East Hill’s central location means you’re never far from Pensacola’s top attractions. Downtown Pensacola, with its vibrant dining, shopping, and nightlife, is just five minutes away, and the pristine white sand beaches of the Gulf Coast are a quick 15-minute drive. Pensacola’s airport is also conveniently located just five minutes from East Hill, making travel seamless.

Whether you’re here to explore, relax, or immerse yourself in Pensacola’s vibrant culture, East Hill offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a neighborhood where history meets modern charm, where nature and community thrive, and where every guest feels like a local.

Velia Villas: A Unique Blend of Luxury, Art, and Tranquility

Velia Villas isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an experience designed to inspire, rejuvenate, and connect you with the essence of Pensacola. Nestled on a serene 1.6-acre property in East Hill, Velia Villas combines natural beauty, artistic design, and thoughtful hospitality to offer an unparalleled retreat.

Each of our five one-bedroom villas is uniquely designed with a monochromatic color palette, luxurious furnishings, and original artwork by local artist Nate Schweigert, inspired by the five birds of alchemy: Crow, Swan, Heron, Pelican, and Peacock. These touches create a distinct yet harmonious experience, blending elegance with tranquility.

Inside, every detail is designed for comfort and convenience. Plush Helix mattresses, Joybird sleeper sofas, and fully equipped kitchens featuring Sur La Table cookware, Henckels knives, and OxO coffee equipment provide everything you need to relax or create. Public Goods toiletries, Marshall Bluetooth speakers, and Smart TVs with streaming services add modern convenience and luxury.

Step outside to enjoy the property’s natural beauty and shared amenities. Gather around the fire pit, cook on the 36” Blackstone grill, or unwind under the trees with outdoor games. The layout offers privacy for quiet moments while inviting connection for those who wish to engage with other guests.

Rooted in the Japanese concept of omotenashi (selfless hospitality), Velia Villas anticipates your needs, offering personalized recommendations, spaces equipped for work or play, and an atmosphere that inspires both rest and creativity.

Located in the heart of East Hill, Velia Villas is just 5 minutes from downtown Pensacola’s dining and nightlife, 15 minutes from the Gulf Coast’s stunning beaches, and steps from coffee shops, breweries, and Bayview Park.

Velia Villas is more than a place to stay—it’s where comfort, art, and tranquility come together to create an unforgettable escape.