16 Mar Unpretentious luxury
I had never heard of Roatan, Honduras until friends of ours bought a condo there in 2008. Lucky us. We’ve been able to stay there over the years and enjoy the rustic beauty of the island in Central America known for its spectacular diving along the Mesoamerica Barrier reef that fringes the Bay Islands, the world’s second longest.
The development where we stay is called Lawson Rock which is on the beach. Our friend’s place has a rooftop pool with total privacy and incredible views of the water.
And then, their neighbors, also from Tennessee, have one of the prettiest entrances I’ve ever seen.
The grounds of Lawson Rock are stunningly beautiful and well maintained. And next to the condos are gorgeous private homes.
On this vacation, Ann Addison, who spends the winters here with her husband, Bill, took me to a boutique resort on the island, called Barefoot Cay. She thought it would make a good feature for stylish retreats. Was she ever right! A quick ride on a pontoon boat and we stepped onto the soft sand and natural beauty of this paradise.
It’s hard to believe there was nothing in this spot until the early 2000’s when it was acquired and the development of this lush resort began.
Now there are eleven various bungalows, villas and lofts to choose from on the property, each offering the gentle tropical breezes and caribbean views a few steps from your door. There are plans to add six casitas in the next phase of development.
Stephanie Bodden, the director of guest services and events, showed us the two bedroom cottage that the founder of Barefoot Cay, Milesse Kennedy, used to live in. I can see why.
The rich dark wood trim and louvers, along with beautiful cabinets and built in pieces are made of marapolan wood from the Honduran mainland.
The bold punches of color in accents like pillows and art give it a playful island feel you want, and stand out with the white walls in the main living area.
Milesse, the founder, has done alot of traveling, and many of the accessories, including pillows and tiny baskets are from Guatemala.
The simplicity and understated beauty is everywhere.
In the kitchen and bathrooms, you’ll find concrete countertops which have such character.
This cottage has two bedrooms and baths. The master, downstairs, is small and intimate.
But there’s everything you would need on an island, including a special niche for your shoes. That is, if you feel the need to wear them on Barefoot Cay.
A cozy nook, or office is between the master bath and living area, full of books and a place to keep your computer if you must take it along on your holiday.
And then there are the stairs to the turret loft.
A charming bedroom with windows on all sides and panoramic views of the sea.
Barefoot Cay has more than charming accomodations. It has a lovely restaurant that, in keeping with the theme of the entire resort, is casually elegant.
It must be hard for guests to leave this enchanted refuge. But memories will have to suffice. They can’t live here but what a lovely retreat where one can dream and refresh the soul. Until next time, my thanks to Barefoot Cay for the peek into their sanctuary of style.
There’s much more to experience on the resort, including a marina, and a dive center. I just wanted to share the interior of the gorgeous cottage. Check out their website for more on this stylish retreat, and if you enjoyed the article, hope you’ll share with your friends. Thanks as always for reading.
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