Caribbean Plantation Guesthouse

Surrounding Area

Balenbouche Estate is a unique mixture of guesthouse, organic farm, St Lucia heritage site, and family residence, and is unlike any other type of accomodation on St. Lucia. Here, you will find a piece of the past preserved, amongst huge old trees, exotic gardens, undisturbed ruins, secluded beaches, charming architecture, eclectic art and design, and people who care deeply about the property and the wellbeing of the environment. Balenbouche is located on the picturesque south-western coast of st Lucia, just a 20 minute drive from the Hewanorra International airport, between the towns of Vieux Fort and Soufriere.

Vacation Rental Property

Our vacation cottages are renovated historic structures which blend into the natural environment and capture a tropical, outdoor life-style. Two of the larger cottages offer kitchens, the others a refrigerator and kettle. All rooms come equipped with standing fans and mosquito nets. We grow some of our food organically on the farm, and several beaches are within walking distance.

Sleeps & # of Bedrooms

The 2 bedroom/2 bathroom self-catering Banyan and Almond Villa sleep 4 - 5 people. The one bedroom Calabash villa and Frangipani villa are best suited for a single traveler or a couple. Balenbouche Estate can comfortably accommodate 12 guests in 6 double beds, and up to 14 if extra beds are placed in the rooms. Group vacations such as wedding parties and yoga retreats are held throughout te year. we offer a special rate of US$ 500 for the rental of the entire property.

Amenities

The two bedroom Almond and Banyan cottages offer self-catering. Two local restaurants are within a 5 minute drive. At Balenbouche, we try to live sustainably and simply, therefore we do not have many modern amenities. We do offer meals by reservation, private bathrooms, hot showers, standing fans, mosquito nets, hot water kettles, bath and beach towels, laundry and maid service, and telephone and internet access (including wireless) in the Plantation House.

Services Offered

Several times a year, we host yoga, writing and artist retreats.We also organize weddings and other special events. A massages therapist can be booked on site, and you are welcome to join our daily yoga practice. Rental cars and taxis for sightseeing trips can be arranged.

Restrictions

Minimum stay is three days.No pets, please, we have enough pets and animals of our own! (dogs, cats, cows, horses, frogs, crickets, lizards etc.)

Rates & Availability

Please see our website.

Other Information

Balenbouche was rated one of the top 5 affordable Caribbean vacations by the Guardian newspaper! Find Balenbouche Estate in Alastair Sawdays "Green Places to Stay", a publication of Special Places to Stay and many other guide books.

Directions

From Vieux Fort (Hewanorra International Airport, UVF) drive through the two villages "Laborie" and "Piaye" Just after Piaye, look out for a white gate, entrance sign and and tall palm tree on your left. From Soufriere, drive through Choiseul and River Doree, the entrance will be on your right.

Discounts Offered

We offer a weekly 10% discount as well as group discounts. We also have a volunteer program which offers room and board in exchange for skilled labour during the summer season from May to November.