Great House Antigua and Barbuda

Boasting a private swimming pool, a secluded bay and stunning views of the sparkling Caribbean Sea, the Great House is a boutique hotel set amidst twenty-six acres of palm trees and tropical gardens, which can be reserved in its entirety for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Uniquely situated on Antigua’s Mercers Creek estate, the hotel’s main residence is a characterful 350-year-old Georgian residence, the last remaining historic sugar plantation house on the island. The Great House also encompasses four Garden Suites, located within contemporary Caribbean cottages nestled in the hotel’s lush gardens. The estate at Mercers Creek is home to its own turquoise bay, an old sugar mill and the gently flowing creek from which its name is derived.
Those who decide to reserve the entire Great House will be treated to a bespoke island getaway for up to sixteen guests, making this the ideal destination for a wedding party or a special celebration. Here, you will enjoy a feast for all the senses, with each of the hotel’s tasteful suites at your disposal, as well as excellent wellness facilities and a carefully curated dining experience throughout your stay.
Inside the historic Great House, guests will find four elegant suites: the Royal Suite, the French Suite, the Pineapple Suite and the Duke Suite. Each spacious suite is tastefully decorated to showcase the hotel’s unique personality, with furnishings that combine laidback Caribbean aesthetics with traditional Georgian pieces and modern facilities. The Royal, French and Duke Suites each feature a four-poster double bed with a soft canopy, as well as an en-suite bathroom with a shower. The Pineapple Suite features two single beds under a shared four poster frame, as well as a private bathroom with a shower overlooking the hotel’s Chinese Garden.
Located amidst calming greenery, the hotel’s four delightful Garden Suites are charming semi-detached cottages. Thoughtfully designed with relaxed Caribbean living in mind, the vibrantly hued cottages are named after plants which grow on the grounds of the hotel. With an elevated position and high vaulted ceilings, each Garden Suite features a king-size canopied bed and understated furnishing which echo the serene natural beauty of the surrounding island. The spacious en-suite bathroom includes a double rainfall shower. There is a wide verandah with comfortable garden furniture and a hammock at the front of each cottage, where you can enjoy a delicious cocktail at sunset whilst admiring the enchanting gardens.
The small team at the Great House is dedicated to making sure that your stay is a completely rejuvenating experience. Wellness treatments can be arranged to take place within the private and relaxing atmosphere of your own suite, or on the hotel’s elegant verandah. There are experienced yoga and Pilates instructors on hand for weekly classes in dreamlike settings, including a meditation platform overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. The team can also assist you in arranging exciting island tours, private coastal trips, or guided walks to scenic beauty spots. Once you have worked up an appetite, enjoy a delicious meal in the hotel’s intimate dining area, where you will be treated to authentic Caribbean dishes prepared with organic produce from the vegetable garden located on the estate.From a calming yoga class in the cool morning breeze to an afternoon spent kayaking around the bay or an invigorating Pilates session at sunset, the Great House offers plenty of relaxing activities that will ease you into the laidback pace of island life. Here, you will feel refreshed by the careful attention to detail that gives this hotel its well-earned reputation. After a dip in the swimming pool, you may wish to wander towards the silky-soft sands of the quiet beach or indulge in a hot stone massage. Or if you fancy venturing further afield, the enchanting landscapes of Antigua lie waiting to be discovered.
The nation of Antigua and Barbuda encompasses two namesake sister islands and several smaller islets. Local Antiguans are understandably proud of the island’s 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. Here, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to your next dip in the Caribbean Sea!
Tranquil beaches are only the beginning of all that this vibrant, friendly island has to offer. Drive for twenty-five minutes to reach the island’s capital, St. John’s. In this colourful port town, you will find the white twin towers of St. John’s Cathedral, as well as the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, providing a fascinating look at the island’s heritage and history. Visit the harbour at St. John’s over the weekend and chances are you will find yourself wandering through a lively local market.
For an exciting day out, head south to the majestic Nelson’s Dockyard National Park. One of five national parks in Antigua, this cultural treasure is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The eighteenth-century British naval dockyard is an area of great historical significance on the island, as well as a popular venue for maritime events and activities. For those who wish to experience the magic for themselves, there are plenty of sailing excursions and water-based activities available.
While taking in the sights at Nelson’s Dockyard, don’t forget to hike to Shirley Heights, a restored military lookout known for its bewitching views and community feel. With a popular street party happening every Sunday evening, visitors are welcome to enjoy the music of live Caribbean steel drum bands, taste some of the local food and rum punch and take in the breathtaking sights as the sun begins to go down on the beautiful island of Antigua.
Located only a fifteen-minute drive away from the Great House, Devil’s Bridge is another Antiguan national park that is sure to make an impression. The bridge itself is a natural arch composed of limestone rock, formed over the course of many thousands of years. With geysers and blowholes surrounding the bridge and the waves of the Atlantic crashing against the rocks, this is a bracing adventure that will leave you in awe of the serene waters you have just left behind.At Excellence Luxury Villas, we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to travel services, we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form below or contact Excellence Luxury Villas Concierge Team, who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
– Maid service/extra cleaning – Private chef/cook/catering – Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge – Local day-trips or tours – Airport pick-up/drop-off
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact Excellence Luxury Villas Concierge Team.
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!