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Hi, Islander
I've been hearing about some botanical gardens in St. Thomas (not the Greathouse), and thought you might know more about them. The place I've heard about is on the Northside, and has a big salmon-colored wall around it. I've heard that it's owned by the same folks that own Bryan's Plants on Crown Mountain Road.
Do you know anything about this place? My friends said that private events can be held there- any info?
Thanks so much as always!
Best,
Loyal Reader
I have heard the same thing Loyal Reader. It is supposed to be BEAUTIFUL on the inside. Will try to ask the person who informed me about it for contact info, etc.
Actually, I just went there! It's called Villa Botanica, and it is STUNNING.
5 1/2 acres of gorgeously landscaped grounds. I found it by digging around on Google.
It is indeed owned by the folks who own Bryan's Nursery, and it's so beautiful!
They aren't "officially" open, from what I can gather, and their website (www.villabotanica.com) is still under construction, but you can reach them at 340-774-1136.
Here's the blurb I found on the web:
"Villa Botanica at Plantation Crown and Hawk An historic 51/2-acre sugar plantation estate high in the mountains abounding with exotic gardens, lawns, stone paths, sugar mill, waterfalls, bridges and breathtaking views. Lush tropical romantic settings are everywhere making this estate the best venue for weddings, special events, corporate functions, meetings or short-term rental for that one-week getaway. Facilities can accommodate groups from 2-200. Truly a one-of-a-kind place in Paradise. Tel: (340) 774-1136; Fax: (340) 776-1138. Click here to visit our web site www.villabotanica.com"
P.S. Thanks, Onika, for your fast response and for checking on it for me! 🙂
Well, it looks like you did some investigation of your own, but I was told that Jackie or Klaus Bryan at Bryan's Plants would be the appropriate contacts. My colleague said it is truly grand inside and would be perfect for a wedding. There is a hall/reception area and she thinks they also have rooms for guests and/or wedding party. She believes it is open and ready for rental! Good luck
Hello,
The Bryans at Bryan's plants would be the contact people, yes. Jackie Bryan (or her husband Klaus) manages things for her father so she would be the right contact person.
--Islander
We were there last year for my brother-in-law's wedding reception. It is a beautiful place and the variety of plants is phenomenal. They do have a couple of rooms for the wedding party and guests and they have also been renting it out for various events and functions. There is also a small pool that has a fantastic view of the southwest.
Klaus said the garden is a work in progress as they slowly add more stonepaths and plants to the other parts it. What they already have is great and one can just imaginge how fabulous it would look when it's all done.
Thank you, Patrick, Islander, and especially Onika!
Yes, I called the number on the website, and spoke with Klaus. I drove down and met him and his wife Jackie, who were both very kind.
The grounds are amazing, and, Patrick, you're right, they have a great view of the harbor- and there's a huge waterfall as well! What a neat place.
Really appreciate all the responses- thanks, everyone!