Great House Villa

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Overview
Amenities
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Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

Dryer
Washer
Barbecue grill
Kitchen
Free WiFi

Explore the area

Jost Van Dyke

White Bay Beach
‪70 min walk‬
Trunk Bay
Virgin Islands National Park
West End (TOV-West End Seaplane Base)
‪10 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Office

Balcony

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

NOTE: We are the owners of the property and do not use any other agent for booking of Great House Villa.

Great House Villa is located on the quiet east side of Jost Van Dyke, overlooking several smaller islands and cays (Sandy Cay, Sandy Spit, Green Cay, Little Jost Van Dyke). The entire villa is air conditioned. Your arrival to the villa will ideally be via water taxi, or ferry followed by land taxi, and is the beginning of a memorable and relaxing vacation.

You will be met at the Sandy Ground dock by Saga, our caretaker, who will assist you with your luggage and provisions. He will transport you the short drive up the hill to the house. From here you will encounter far reaching views, welcoming ocean breezes and a serene sense that all your troubles are all far behind you. Saga will offer you concierge service should you need to know or book anything on the island, he will be at your assistance.

The two story guest house contains 2 bedrooms each with a kingsize bed and en-suite bathroom, one upstairs and one downstairs. A living room upstairs with dining area, TV, DVD's, etc. Both bedrooms and living room have a/c. The bedrooms each have large wooden wrap-around decks with rocking chairs. The living room opens up onto to the pool deck with sun loungers and bbq, which is only steps to the quaint Caribbean kitchen with colorful wooden shutters. The kitchen is fully stocked with modern appliances.

Wander through the tropical gardens to a viewing deck near the water's edge where a private tub is ready for you if you wish to bathe in the open air while watching the boats sail by.

A dinghy is available to those who wish to discover the surrounding inlets and beaches. A fee of $50 per day is charged for use of the dinghy. Please let the owner know if you wish to make use of this service.

A double kayak is available for our guests to enjoy.

Provisioning must be done ahead of arrival. You should arrive with all your groceries. Please read the house notes once you have made contact with the owner. You can purchase a few emergency supplies in Great Harbor.

The owners sometimes stay in the separate main house, however you will have sole use of the swimming pool during your stay and privacy is assured.

Great House Villa is your ideal getaway. This rental is suitable for a romantic escape or honeymoon, as well as a family and friends vacation.

Property manager

Cathryn Hempel

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

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Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Barbecue grill

House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

With the impact the Coronavirus is having on global travel, the owner would like to offer flexible dates for anyone who has booked or is a potential g

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

This property uses a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Caribbean

Jost Van Dyke

Getting around

Tortola (EIS-Terrance B. Lettsome Intl.) - 52 min drive

Restaurants

Foxy's
Soggy Dollar
1748 Restaurant
Ivan's Stress Free Bar
Sebastian’s Seaside Grill

Frequently asked questions

Does Great House Villa have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Great House Villa pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Great House Villa?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Great House Villa?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Great House Villa located?

Situated on the beach, this villa is 1.4 mi (2.2 km) from Bubbly Pool and 2.1 mi (3.3 km) from Great Harbour.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

13 Dec 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

You need to see this place

Such a fantastic property!! It’s our perfect escape and reset location, that’s why we keep coming back and the hosts are fantastic! We’ll be back again

Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Darcy S.

29 Mar 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pure Paradise

We have experienced a number of different Caribbean Islands via VRBO and this has been the best yet! The villa is even better than the pics and description…beautiful views from every room and balcony. We rented the dingy and used it to visit nearby islands and snorkel with our daughters. We also decided to get a rental car to get to some venues on the other side the island like Soggy Dollar, Sydney’s Peace and Love etc. Saga who is the villa care taker was super friendly and knowledgeable and got us some fresh fruit (coconut and passion fruit) from the property. So lovely and peaceful from beginning to end.

Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matt L.

24 Mar 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Place

Our family had an incredible week here. The property was perfect for us and had the best views. Loved everything about it. Saga was amazing and extremely helpful. Cathryn was very helpful with details and recommendations on transport/provisioning/etc. We plan to return again as soon as we can!

Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Audrey E.

17 Mar 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

As good as it gets!

In my next life, I'm coming back as Tuna. The cat. She lives in this paradise called The Great House Villa on JVD with her friendly, considerate, and attentive caregiver, Saga. She has lush gardens, endless views, soft sea breezes, lulling sounds of the ocean and small lizards as companions. Lucky us to have visited this magical place. Hope to return!

Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary L.

3 Mar 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical place

We had an amazing experience at this quiet, beautiful, relaxing space. We were all sad to leave and hope to come back for a longer visit next time. The views are incredible, the service by the owners and caretaker was beyond our expectations and clearly want guests to feel the same specialness about the place as they do. It is a memory making place for sure.

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Fumiko A.

17 Feb 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Remote beauty

Beautiful views, friendly and helpful staff. Comfy beds and an adorable Caribbean kitchen It was usually windy and rainy for Feb but we had a wonderful time. Living / dining space was cozy. A couple of fun places to hike

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

David D.

13 Feb 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Stay

The house is very nice. One bedroom main level, one bedroom downstairs. Both full baths. Kitchen is supplied well. Super clean. Private pool with awesome views!!!! We will definitely stay again. Host were easy to work with and very accommodating. Saga is the “care taker” and was available for anything or questions.Overall 5 stars!!

Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Diana G.

18 Jan 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

My family thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the villa. The photos and description are very accurate. Having the inflatable dinghy was an added bonus, allowing us to explore the area by water and enjoy going to Foxy’s Taboo and Sandy Spit. The private beach was spectacular! Cathryn was a great communicator before check in, providing detailed information before arrival and Saga, the property manager was extremely helpful, assisting us with every need. Tuna the cat was a special visitor that stopped by daily. We loved it so much that we booked next years stay even before we checked out! The entire experience exceeded our expectations.6

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Edward M.

2 Jan 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location and property

Exactly as advertised. We loved Great House Villa. Beautiful home and setting. Incomparable view. And meeting Saga was a highlight of our stay in the BVI.

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Trauma Center Solutions

2 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The best girls trip at the Great House Villa

Everything about our stay at the villa was exceptional. From the booking process, to the accuracy of the photos and instructions to the ease of check in and host communication———-the trip was smooth and easy! The space is spotless and very well maintained with all the comforts of a hotel such as nice sheets, pillows and towels, great water pressure, and fantastic AC. The pool is perfection and sets this property apart from the others. By far the best part of the villa is the care and concern provided by Saga, who makes it his number 1 priority to keep each guest happy, comfortable and safe. We loved getting to know him and learn about Jost and the property history. We plan to return as soon as we can!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brent H.

19 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

You might not want to leave

We have been coming to the Island for the last decade. This year we brought some family with us to experience it. Over the years we have stayed at a few different places throughout the years. Great House Villas, is by far the nicest, most beautiful place (the villa and grounds) we have stayed; that along with Saga getting and helping us with anything we needed or had questions about. He truly is an Island treasure!

Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Catherine L.

25 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous Property

We enjoyed our stay so much! What a beautiful island and place to relax and enjoy! Saga was an amazing help with everything! The villa was perfect! I would recommend renting a car. The driveway is quite rocky and can be difficult to navigate if wearing flip flops and sandals and very dark at night after dinner out. Wonderful experience overall!

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joseph B.

11 Apr 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Vacation Ever

I can't say enough about our stay at the Great House Villa. Property was beautiful in every way. Saga was such a great help with everything. And access to the dinghy have us access to some great places on the island.

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Arenda

7 Apr 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication

We loved everything about our stay at Great House Villa. The trip did require deliberate planning ahead, but all the guidance and recommendations provided by the owner steered us perfectly in the right direction. Saga, the caretaker for the property, was an absolute gem! He made sure we were well equipped and had all the insights to make our excursions around the island seamless. We felt like we had our own private piece of paradise and are already planning when to return! Note: this property would be difficult to navigate for anyone with mobility challenges.

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark K.

24 Mar 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Location

Second time we stayed here for a week. Property is awesome and we plan to come back.

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tod J.

15 Mar 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Even Better Than the Pictures

I'm a bit of a restless person but this place cured me for the duration of our stay. The grounds are rugged but every step is worth it to the private beach and/or the "tub" deck. Our hosts were gracious, Saga was attentive, and Tuna kept an eye on us. We'll be back for sure!

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

eric h., Houston

4 Feb 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

Everything was perfect!!

Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Megan T., Madison, NJ

4 Jan 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful sanctuary

Our family spent 4 incredible days at this one of a kind, peaceful, magical home in Jost. Words cannot describe the level of care and attention to every detail the home offers! Everything space is well thought and planned to allow for comfort and such a sense of relaxation and calm! We cannot wait to return! Cathryn and her family have created a sanctuary of peace and beauty that complement the outstanding property and its views! Saga offered such great attention and island information and was readily available whenever we needed! A must for anyone visiting Jost!

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ivette B.

29 Dec 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning views & wonderful, safe property!

Amazing place and we hope to return. We spent our time basking in the sun, watching catamarans sail and pelicans fly by. We also used the dinghy to get to Taboo (and loved Bubbly Pool), kayaked in the pristine water, walked to the beach and played with Tuna. Saga helped us so much. He found us a Jeep rental and we loved the adventure of driving to Great Harbour and White Bay. Saga was also available for questions or concerns. The grounds with vibrant flowers and magical butterflies were beautiful.

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Denise H.

7 Dec 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular!

This place is amazing!! The house is great and has everything you need. You have your own private beach, own private dock, a dinghy at a small additional cost, and a bathtub over looking the Sea. The first day we decided to not rent a car. You do have to walk up a path to hit the main road so that taxi can pick you up. I have trouble getting around so we rented a car and drove all around the island and back and forth to the villa. It made it more convenient for us. However many people do not rent them at all. The Dinghy was a great addition to our trip. We went to Bline multiple times and Sandy Spit as well as Sandy Cay. You are even walking distance from Bubbly Pool. The house had everything we needed for our stay. We did not bring provisions so we did not utilize the kitchen but it seemed well stocked. My favorite part was taking a bath every morning overlooking the water while the sun was rising. We will def. Return. They have a house keeper Saga that can help you with anything you need. He was great. We cannot wait to come back!

Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa F., San Francisco, CA

21 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

If perfection exists, this is it

Great House was so perfect I almost hate to review it so I can keep the secret for myself. It was in the most gorgeous setting with every comfort considered. Plunge pool, outdoor dining, sunrise, sunset - every moment was magic from ever corner of the house. Saga provides just the right balance of support and privacy. Going back isn’t the question, only when. Thank you for a rejuvenating stay!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

20 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Time

we have stayed at Great House on multiple occasions and have loved it every time. This place is paradise.

Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike M.

7 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible!

From pre-arrival communication with Catherine to the on-site hospitality of Saga, we had a perfect visit. The villa is breathtaking, and even as a hospitality-industry executive, I was blown away by the cleanliness and service. Can’t wait to return!

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue and Tim M., Columbus, Ohio

20 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolute heaven!

We stayed in the Great House Villa in early June 2023 and the weather was perfect every day. The views are magnificent, and the property extremely private and secluded, making for a totally restful vacation. Saga the caretaker was helpful and kind and showed us how to make fresh passion fruit juice. The resident kitty cat Tuna is loving and attentive—-always looking for a pat or a lap to purr in. We had a fabulous visit to Jost Van Dyke!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kent E.

7 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Feels like home

This was our second stay at Great House Villa, and it was just as magical as the first. Although the island was a bit more crowded this trip, Great House Villa offered a respite from the crowds of tens of people. 😉. This island might not be for everyone, but it feels like home to me. The house, the grounds, the caretaker Saga, were as amazing as our first trip. Watching the sunrises while sitting in the cool morning breeze was therapeutic and healing. We are checking our calendar for a return trip as we can’t wait to return.

Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2023

About the host

Hosted by Cathryn Hempel

In 2003 we purchased a house on Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands. We have since completed extensive renovations, creating what is now a beautiful luxury vacation home, with lots of added creature comforts to ensure that being on an out-island doesn't necessarily mean roughing it. The main form of transportation to and from the villa is by boat, which creates an exciting and diverse lifestyle. Much of the house was renovated after Hurricane Irma in 2017.

Why they chose this property

Jost Van Dyke is the perfect place to have a vacation rental. The island is frequented by a multitude of sailboats and charter yachts on a daily basis and has some world class beaches and beach bars. Vacationers come from far and wide to sail our waters and soak up the relaxed atmosphere on the beaches of Jost.

What makes this property unique

Snorkeling the reef in front of our property offers some wonderful sightings of sea life. For the more adventurous, visiting the deserted beaches of nearby islands on the dinghy creates memories that will live with you forever. Sipping cocktails on the pool deck while the sun sets over the ocean and the pelicans swoop for their supper, one is inclined to believe that life can't get any better. Getting on a boat to transport us to and from the property is truly unique. Personally, my favorite time of the day is early morning, when I get to spend some quiet time doing yoga on the pool deck overlooking the sea.

Languages:

English

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Great House Villa

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

About this property