19 acres of private tropical gardens and white sand, dotted with impressive granite boulders, hammocks and hiding places perfect for quiet reflection.
December saw the reopening of Virgin Gorda’s beautiful Valley Trunk Estate following a significant refurbishment.
This enviable family home, which was built 40 years ago, has been a labour of love for all those involved. Stephen Johnson, Head Gardener, has tended to the grounds for many years and has evident pride in the old and new trees that he planted from seed. Following Hurricane Irma, he salvaged many damaged plants with great care and attention.
From the moment you enter the prestigious gates to the private driveway, it is quite obvious that every inch of the grounds have been carefully planned. A guided tour of the gardens is an educational, tranquil and inspiring experience. The entire house has been refurbished and has an ‘outside in’ feel with wonderful huge windows, an abundance of plants, light, fresh colours and organic materials.
All ten suites have handcrafted wood vanities, closets, cupboards and drawers which were made by a small family run business in Northern Italy. The suites each have private verandas overlooking the tropical gardens and stunning ocean. All en-suite bathrooms ensure complete privacy with frosted windows, hand etched with delicate palm fronds designed especially for Valley Trunk.
Searching many corners of the world for the perfect materials, the family handpicked every wall and roof tile, every piece of furniture and all the furnishings, including mattresses, bed linen and towels. The attention to detail is exquisite throughout including the complementary Parisian “Hermès” toiletries and perfume in each suite.
The sitting room, bar and games room are open plan and, along with the separate dining room, all look out over thriving, bright pink Bougainvillea. The outside dining boasts the same views next to the newly retiled pool. The cinema room has an oversized sofa which comfortably seats all 20 guests. The Bali House, located right next to the beach, was destroyed by Hurricane Irma but the family was determined to rebuild it as beautifully as it had been done 40 years ago. Once again, guests can enjoy this truly idyllic place in solitude or for meals and entertainment. Valley Trunk Beach, named after the indigenous Trunkback Turtles, borders the entire estate and is as private as it gets. The soft white sand and boulders are home to crystal blue water with guests enjoying snorkelling right off the beach. Night time bonfires under the stars have become a favoured tradition.
Holistic spa treatments are available anywhere on the grounds or in the privacy of the guests’ suites. There is also a sauna, steam room and newly resurfaced, floodlit tennis court. Any property is only as good as the staff. The estate is superbly managed by Chris Tilling and a small loyal team of chefs, housekeepers, waiters, gardeners and maintenance crew. The team offers impeccable “invisible” service so that guests only see a member of staff when they need something, otherwise their time and privacy with friends or family is respected at all times. Nothing is too much trouble and as you have the entire private estate to yourself, your stay is truly tailored around all of your preferences.
Chris has lived in the BVI for over 30 years, his knowledge of the islands and long term relationship with the locals ensures seamless travel arrangements, the very best day trips by boat or helicopter, the ability to arrange for any activity or hire the most talented musicians and ensure that any time spent off the estate is as memorable as the time spent on it. Chris is always on hand to help organise any special event, be it a birthday party, a wedding or a New Year celebration, no request is too big or small!
For more information, or to book your dream island getaway at Valley Trunk, get in touch.