Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Jackson Hole bought land on the island which they then do-
nated to the Federal Government to create a National Park.
Caneel's 170 acres, encompassing seven beaches, all within
the Park, are still owned by Jackson Hole. Management of
the hotel was taken over by Rosewood Hotels and Resorts in
1993, which has renovated the guest rooms and upgraded
the facilities without changing the essential serenity.
The 166 guest rooms are prudently scattered throughout the
property, some just a few steps from a beach and others set
atop hilly knolls overlooking the bay. The attached build-
ings, housing up to a dozen bedrooms, are enhanced by the
profusion of sea grape, hibiscus, bougainvilleas, flam-
boyants and expertly manicured lawns. Feel free to flop into
one of the hammocks stretched between two flowering tropi-
cal trees.
Since the hotel was built in stages, the accommodations are
not identical. Those rooms directly on a beach are the most
expensive, while those on the hill near the sugar mill or ten-
nis courts are less pricey. All rooms have private terraces or
patios and are refurnished with attractive rattan furniture
and pastel shades on the walls and bedspreads. Bathrooms
(only a few have tubs) have modern fixtures, good mirrors
and lots of toiletries.
Rooms are now air-conditioned - something that caused
grumbling by “regulars,” but they have managed to keep out
TVs and telephones. There are ceiling fans. Guests return
annually, often reserving their favorite room upon depar-
ture. It is heavily booked in the high season, and February is
sold out by the previous summer.
There has been a relaxation of several of Caneel Bay's “tra-
ditions” under Rosewood. Children are now permitted
year-round and that has encouraged young guests. There is
even an organized children's program for children aged five
to 13 and a baby-sitting service for younger children. There
is an additional fee for these services. Also relaxed is the
dress code. Men are asked to wear collared shirts and closed
footwear at both the Equator and Turtle Bay Estate Restau-
