we come from saint martin and decided with my husband to spend a week in Antigua to rest and enjoy an island that we did not know.
Janie's cottage and Geoffrey is the perfect place! surrounded by vegetation, we took advantage of the calm of the place while watching the birds come to drink or to forage the flowers. The cottage is very cute, we live on the terrace. There is a lot of ballad around and we are 5 minutes drive from english harbour.
The owners are lovely, the pool is beautiful and the perfect place! everything is done for a perfect holiday
After reading every review, we wondered if this was too good to be true. It was every bit and more just as described. Bed was comfy, never too hot without air conditioning because you leave doors and windows open 24 hours a day, just like living out in nature but with the mosquito net around which definitely was needed as well as sprays and citronella candles, all supplied for you! Big enough fridge and freezer if needed (for ice for yr cocktails )As the hosts were on sight ( who were so lovely btw) you could ask about anything and Janie was great at giving advice re places to go and eat. I could write a book about their place, I was in awe at their lifeâs work creating this tropical paradise calling in nature ie the beautiful hummingbirds, finches, bananaquits, lizards, bird of prey one day, etc. etc.One of the things that was an added bonus was doing some water colour painting on Janies veranda with a few likeminded friends while there ( I had brought my paints with me ) The food that was already there was so thoughtful so we didnât have to rush out straight away.You definitely needed a truck as roads were full of potholes, some places worse than others. There were so many beautiful beaches our favourite Pidgeon Point, easy to swim in the calm clear waters and 2 cafes at each end of beach. We didnât find eating out very cheap but a lot of choice at English Harbour just a few minutes drive away. I could go on, a very special place we would love to revisit.
We had the most relaxing time at Birds & Bees. The cottage is delightful and has everything you need for a comfortable stay. The terrace is wonderful and watching the sun rise everyday was so beautiful. I was recovering from surgery so couldnât enjoy the pool but it looked so inviting! Janie and Geoffrey are superb hosts and go out of their way to make your holiday memorable.
An amazing Idilic setting In beautiful grounds a tribute to Janie and Geoffrey we could not wish for anything more the place the grounds and the hospitality of the owners, for us 10 nights was not long enough, we could not fault our stay we would highly recommend this beautiful hideaway.
We loved the privacy, and watching all the birds and lizards which came right up to the veranda. The saltwater pool is short walk up the hill and is occasionally used by our hosts, and possibly 2 other guests. The kitchen had starting groceries including coffee, tea, bread, butter, jam and even rum. The bathroom also had a few extras. The outdoor shower was lovely. Janie and Geoffrey are wonderful, with great stories of island life, sailing and horseback riding. They know the island very well and were great with suggestions such as Cloggy's which is close by, on the water, and was our favourite restaurant--excellent food at a very reasonable price--no greasy fried food there!
We were close to beaches, hiking, and even riding stables. The hub at English Harbour is a short drive. The Copper and Lumber Hotel does a Friday fishfry with good food choices and live music. Go to the Shirley Heights BBQ and Steel Pan party on Thurs as Sunday is extremely busy. The views are spectacular. Turner's beach is about 20 minutes drive, but is quiet, with chairs, free permanent umbrellas and a casual seaside restaurant.
The road is rough, but we managed with our small rental sedan from Tristan at TG Car Rental, who met us at the airport with the car.
Our stay at Sapodilla cottage was lovely, relaxing, and hands down the best vacation I've experienced. When we arrived the host had stocked a starter amount of food so we didn't have to go in search of a grocery after our flight and drive. The cottage is so private and set in amongst the most beautiful garden and trees. I kept thinking how generous the owners were to share this little slice of paradise. We slept under netting with all the doors and windows open. The breeze along with the song birds singing during the day and tree frogs at night was delightful. We had the swimming pool to our selves and the view of Falmouth Harbor from the pool and deck was amazing. The owners live on property but we rarely saw them and when we did the conversation was enjoyable, we looked forward to running into them. They are true stewards to the environment. They make use of solar power, recycle and you can sense the respect for nature while staying there. Janie set out sugar water and fresh water for the birds. Watching the bananaquits feed and bathe along with hummingbirds was delightful. My favorite though of the cottage was the stone layed attached outdoor shower. Everything about this stay was perfect. Missing the tranquility of that little cottage, until next time.
The hosts made sure we were comfortable and took care of issues as they came up, (they were only very minor). They made sure we knew about attractions on the island such as what to do and restaurant recommendations which were spot on.
The hosts made sure we had some supplies to tide us over until we could get to the grocer such as bread, butter, a pineapple (delicious) among other things.
Having private secure parking was great. The seclusion was welcome.
There was a great view of the harbour. We spent quite a bit of time in the pool as well.
We had a great 21 day vacation.
Everything was amazing...Janie â„offrey were so friendly&helpful...such sweet people, with big hearts...the stone cottage set in the hills of Antigua was so quaint...the pool was amazing...the Hummingbirds&the other small birds were amazing to feed&watch...to be able to have your window's &doors wide open was spectacular...having little bird's flying in to the kitchen was magical...I almost hate to rave about this hidden gem...because I want it all to ourselves...we definitely plan on returning in 2025
Picture a small stone studio with a vaulted ceiling, a huge verandah, a 4-poster bed, mini kitchen (with a fabulously stocked fridge thank you Jeannie!) and the BEST outdoor shower ever! Itâs tucked into a tropical garden, breezy and private. Youâll be greeted by the sugar loving bananaquits and hummingbirds in the morning, and lulled to sleep by tree frogs and crickets at night. And just up the steps behind the cottage is an amazing pool with an incredible view of Falmouth Harbour and a lovely large gazebo for shade and shelter from the 5 min showers. English Harbour is closeby with restaurants and shops and donât miss the Shirley Heights BBQ parties are Thurs and Sunday. The steel band starts at 4:30, the dancing continues all evening!
You do need a Jeep to get here and to explore, but itâs well worth it if you like the âoff the beaten pathâ kinda place! Youâll feel like youâve been away in paradise!
We loved our stay so much, and the hosts go way above and beyond to ensure your happiness. I worked remotely for many days and the internet was great. What a special place, with fallen flowers lining the window pains and walking paths. Thanks so much for taking such great care of us on our very long stay! Hope to see you again soon.
The cottage was ideal for us with the added feature of truly magnificent views and amazing gardens. The owners
could not have been of more assistance as nothing was a problem or too much trouble.A car or better still a 4 wheel drive vehicle is essential if you wish to explore the island which is certainly well worth doing as the cottage is a little remote thus ensuring its peaceful setting ! Thank you so much for a truly great holiday.David and Caroline
We had a really lovely, tranquil and relaxing 2 week stay.
Janie and Jeffrey were lovely hosts and couldn't do enough for us .
The pool area is to die for as is the view!!
All the dogs were lovely and came to check on us daily.
We hired a 4x4, which was ideal to get up to the property as the road surface is heavily rutted.
All in all a great time was had
This was our second time to Janie and Geoffrey's stunning property (April 2 to April 16, 2023). We had the use of both cottages, Sapodilla and Birds 'N Bees plus a spacious bedroom suite. We were an extended family group - five adults and two young grandchildren. Please read my detailed review on the Birds 'N Bees site. We highly recommend Janie's magical property. We cannot imagine staying anywhere else while in Antigua.
Wendy C.
We spent a week in the cottage to celebrate my wife's birthday. We loved everything about it. The owners were very nice and had stocked the refrigerator with water, pineapple juice, fruit, bread, butter and some very tasty rum. There were some fellow travelers staying in a second cottage on another part of the property and we became fast friends. The pool and gazebo were great. I honestly couldn't give a higher recommendation.
Ever wonder what the Garden of Eden was like? Janie's two acre property answers that question, minus the serpents. Each unit is fully stocked with everything you could possibly need for a comfortable stay and they are wired for 110v appliances. No need to worry about mosquitoes without window and door screens. The units have a mosquito trap, powerful fans, and custom made nets for the comfy beds. The saltwater pool and deck with gazebo overlooking Falmouth Harbor is so relaxing; the lily pond is serene; and the quiet solitude is regenerative. This was my second stay at Janie's property and I really wouldn't even consider staying anywhere else on the south side of Antigua. It is conveniently located to reach many beaches and attractions, some of which are within walking distance. The property is absolutely beautiful and you couldn't ask for better hosts who have a lot of knowledge and suggestions and know how to respect one's privacy. It truly is perfect for a natural, beautiful getaway!
Fantastic location wonderful hosts rustic and relaxed
The sights and sounds of nature all around. Time stands still in this well kept surrounding gardens with views to die for from the warm waters of the pool. Small compact. Has everything you need for a simple stay. Thanks Janie and Geoffrey for being warm hospitable hosts
Others have well described this charming cottage overlooking Falmouth Bay so we will stick to what a great stay we had. Our best experience was still on the porch in the morning sun with probably 20 Sugar Birds (as they're locally called) lining up and chatting at the bowl of sugar water. Janie has over 40 years knowing and loving Antigua and she makes you believe you should do the same.
Delightful, cool cottage set in a garden surrounded by bull finches, bananaquits and humming birds. So lovely we almost want to keep it a secret. Janie and Jeremy could not have done more to make our stay so wonderful.
It is great and a really unique place, very secluded and surrounded by nature. Would happily go back or recommend to friends. Thanks Janie and Geoffrey
After a week in a group of 10 sharing a large villa this was an oasis of calm and beauty for our second week. If you enjoy simple, basic âaway from it allâ this is it! Peace and quiet, in touch with nature and utterly charming. Views over Falmouth Harbour from the hillside set in a beautiful garden. Janie and Geoffrey were perfect hosts. We will be back!!
Wow, what an unbelievable vacation. We booked thus little cottage as a get away. It was perfect for the times we are living in. We had the freedom to come and go as needed. We enjoyed being part of nature by having the ability to leave windows and doors open all night. Each morning we woke up to enjoy our coffee with the sunrise.
The location was ideal for hikes leaving right from the cottage. We were able to source food for picnics to Rendezvous Bay where I was able to snorkel and see a sting ray in the wild.
We enjoyed days of relaxing, exploration and chilling by the pool. Janie & Jeffrey were a pleasure they gave you space when you needed it, guidance on things to do and shared bits of their life on the island. If we go back to Antigua we will be booking this spot again.
Garden Setting with Flora and Fauna, saltwater swimming pool and easy access to Falmouth Harbor.r.
This Garden Cottage is located among a beautifully landscaped property. It is totally secluded and romantic, and there is no need to worry about mosquitoes. The owner has a device to ward them off and also sprays regularly. The whole experience was lovely and I can't wait to stay here again. I could easily stay a month. Wonderful walk to Rendezvous Bay. Easy access to central and west coast attractions. The onsite hosts are available and easily make suggestions for activities.
I had an incredible stay at Janie's cottage!
I was charmed upon arrival by how lush the property was. Janie and her husband greeted me upon arrival. They are both lovely and have a great spirit. I only saw them a few moments over my week-long stay for a short and sweet conversation. I felt like I had the entire property to myself!
The cute, little cottage was covered in tropical foliage which attracted an array of visiting birds (I especially loved watching the sweet hummingbirds all week). It was exactly what I was looking for - a chance to unwind and connect to nature.
The room was stocked with lots of basics for the kitchen and bathroom. The bed was cozy and the net & fan did a great job of protecting me from mosquitos. I didn't get one bite!
My favorite part was the outdoor shower and lounging on the veranda by the pool with the most beautiful view.
Janie gave me a few great tips on beaches. They were really close by and a slice of heaven.
I stayed here alone and felt safe and well taken care of. I would most definitely return and would highly recommend it!
This was absolutely one of the most peaceful & stunning properties imaginable. Janie & Geoffrey, you are amazing host!! To be able to travel to your island, stay in your home & to have met the both of you, my cup runneth over!!
Thank you have for the wonderful memories & the wonderful conversation. I left a piece of my heart in Antigua this time, with great anticipation of returning to be able to stay once again In your beautiful cottage in your secret garden!!
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!
The owners are very keen sailors, riders, gardeners and dog lovers. They have lived at Springhill since 1969 and know the island very well, and are delighted to help any guests find their feet with anything they wish to do, whether sailing, riding, hiking, bird watching, etc. etc. or just leave them to sunbathe and enjoy the pool!
I sailed into English Harbour, Antigua in 1967 and after sailing up and down the islands there was no choice for me, but making a home here in my favorite island! I built the house in 1969 on a barren hillside with great views and wonderful breezes and my husband and I have enjoyed planting a garden filled with trees.