Fortlands Hotel

The Fortlands Garden Hotel is an iconic property that combines the elegance of Deep South plantation homes with the traditional charms of the Caribbean. With uninterrupted views across the sea to St Kitts’ sister island, Nevis, the hotel sits in the heart of Basseterre and offers extraordinary potential. Renovations have been started; plans have been drawn up by architects at the prestigious BOA agency – all that’s needed is someone with vision and imagination to complete the picture.

At present, the property comprises eight ensuite bedrooms and has the feel of a boutique hotel. Simply adding a pool to the extensive grounds would be more than enough to interest high-end clientele, but there is of course the possibility of more. Once opened, this would stand as the only hotel in downtown Basseterre, the tiny capital city that moves to the rhythms of reggae and jazz and where the arts scene is attracting ever more prominent players.

The size and space mean that Fortlands would make a fantastic retreat; the beauty of the buildings see it as an ideal backdrop to weddings and events. The lower gardens are only missing a stage looking out onto the palm-lined lawns. Current architect plans suggest an extraordinary pool, with multiple levels flowing seamlessly from one to the other in a series of sweeping curves. With this, the art lies in combining contemporary stylings and modern expectations with the classical setting created by the property’s whitewashed, wooden-clad walls, imperial staircase and ornately crafted balconies.

The views from the bedrooms, terraces and reception rooms are all mature green trees, blue skies and even bluer seas. Oversized sash windows let light pour onto polished hardwood floors and gleaming marble; white wood panelling and louvred doors add stylish touches to the rooms. On the top floor, the typical vaulted ceilings of the Caribbean are complimented by high arched windows; every guest here will sense how the exterior and the interior flow effortlessly together.

Practicalities have not been overlooked either. There is a dedicated generator room, a separate laundry room, and a large commercial kitchen space. While whimsical touches have been added – there’s a terrace bar, and the bright yellow of local bananaquits appears on some walls – the renovations have been done with a business mindset. Moreover, under the Private Homes scheme the property does come with citizenship.

Whether the property becomes something achingly modern, with additional guest cottages added in the grounds and magnificent sweeps of swimming pool included in the garden, or whether it stays as a charming boutique establishment offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the capital, Fortlands Garden Hotel has exciting potential. As more eyes turn towards the Caribbean, as more music and arts and film festivals choose Basseterre as a location, the need for a centrally-based hotel grows year on year. Fortlands offers the possibility of being not only the first but also one of the most iconic hotels in the area, with enviable views, understated elegance and unforgettable charm.

PROPERTY NOTES:

+ Great opportunity to open up a unique boutique hotel

+ 8 Bedrooms with ensuite with new A/C and ceiling fans

+ Grand reception & salon

+ Terrace Bar

+ Lower ground commercial kitchen space – fully tiled

+ Double garage

+ Laundry room

+ Generator room

+ Extensive gardens finished with ornate white walls

+ House has undergone complete renovation and just needs a few finishing touches

+ Gated and walled – landscaping to be installed

+ Sold unfurnished