Golden Rock Plantation Inn

Golden Rock Plantation Inn Review

Pam Barry's great-great-great-grandfather built this hillside estate in the early years of the 19th century; Pam has imbued the inn with her love of Nevisian heritage and nature, and co-owners, acclaimed artists Brice Marden and wife Helen Harrington, have imparted a chic, modernist sensibility. The old cistern was converted into a spring-fed swimming pool and the sugar mill into a honeymoon haven with a gorgeous winding bamboo staircase. Cannons and copper pots placed about the grounds contribute to the historic ambience. An avid environmental activist, Pam carved out nature trails throughout the mountainous, 96-acre property and brews bush teas for guests. Green vervet monkeys dash about the premises (they often congregate outside Cottage 1). Meanwhile, the owners made what decorators coyly call "a bold statement." Many surfaces—from decks to shutters—are splashed in reds and greens; the pool addition resembles a contemporary-art installation, the restaurant a dazzling tiered sculpture garden with waterfalls. The aesthetic clashes intriguingly with the historic elements while playing off the landscaping's richly saturated colors. The vividly hued gingerbread cottages (each holding two rooms—though Helen hopes to conflate them into giant luxurious lodgings) have dazzling ocean views from their patios; decor contrasts pristine white floors, curtains, and bedspreads with handsome hardwood or bamboo furnishings, pineapple friezes and colorful Berber throw rugs. Some things won't change: free transportation accesses the inn's beach bar (phenomenal rum punches) on Pinney's Beach and a windward strand ideal for seclusion and bodysurfing. And Pam remains on the property as a link to the past and a nature advocate.