Carefully wrapped in the surrounding jungle, Watch Hill feels as if it has been a part of the mountainside forever. Lovingly crafted by the architect who designed it, the house presents a masterclass in bringing the outdoors indoors.
Buried high up on the lush slopes of the Peak, the constant, cooling tradewinds rush off the Atlantic far below and blow gently across the generous verandah and throughout the house. Hatch-like windows and a living room with a long L-shaped sofa lend something of a nautical air, perhaps a touch surreal when coupled with the bright bougainvillea and sprawling ackee trees also leaning into the view. An upstairs room beneath the gables is reminiscent of an English country cottage: gorgeous sash windows, exposed beams and sun-swept window seats are the stuff of a romantic's imagination.

The master bedroom is set apart, with its own over-sized verandah again serving to draw together the outer and inner sanctums. As with the main house, the overriding purpose of the room's design is to blend light and space with the feeling of a safe harbour, a delicate balancing act that has been perfectly accomplished. Touches such as the clawfoot bath are curiously inevitable – everything here is just as it should be: no more, no less.

A separate guest cottage cannot be seen from either of the two main structures. Easing ever deeper into the jungle, it also has extraordinary views – even by Nevis' high standards – and arguably presents the finest panoramas of any shower room on the island.

Watch Hill is so much more than just another wooden house. The floorboards are made with mixed local hardwoods; shelves are snugly recessed; there is the occasional dash of cornflower blue woodwork, and handcrafted sunbeams support the verandah rails. A low stone wall is flecked with pieces of pottery retrieved from hidden corners of Nevis, and visitors are welcomed by an old Gingerland Post Office sign – a name that always seems straight out of a fairytale. Every bougainvillea draped archway and every palm tree and aloe has a sense of belonging and significance that only an artisan could give it. This home is a retreat for the mind, body and soul, far indeed from the madding crowd.

SQUARE FOOTAGE:
Under Roof :3,600
Enclosed Space: 1,560
Main House: 1,100
Verandahs: 1,620
Storage: 415
Master Bedroom: 275
Cottage: 275