One of the great things about living in St. Croix is how close one can be to nature, and to the vibrant history and culture of this island. One of the most beautiful spots in St. Croix, Castle Nugent Farm, one such place that melds nature and history, and right now there’s a charming cottage available for rent on the grounds. This two-bedroom, two-bath private cottage is a historical building located on a family estate and active cattle ranch. You’ll feel like you’re worlds away from the hubbub, but it’s a very short and convenient drive to Christiansted, Sunny Isle, and all points East.
Castle Nugent Farm is thought to be one of the oldest working ranches in the West Indies, having cultivated cotton, cattle and indigo as far back as 1730. The current cattle ranch, raising Senepol cattle, has been operating under the Gasperi family since 1957. The family is still a presence on the farm, with the newly established ArtFarm located nearby in Longford.
The cottage for rent is a long-term rental and perfect for anyone with an active lifestyle, who can appreciate the natural beauty and quiet serenity of the South Shore. The Residents will enjoy views of the ocean and pastures, and there is hiking and beach access for any adventurers. Because it is a working farm, pets and young children cannot be accomodated.
You may have heard about the push to create a National Park in the area, which would preserve a large portion of the undeveloped South Shore . This area is vital for its 
ecological riches including wetlands (which are important for all birds), and the largest areas of Black Mangroves and fringing coral reef in the territory, and one of the largest salt ponds too. As important as the environmental aspects of preserving this lands are, one cannot overlook it’s historical value. Many of these buildings are centuries old, and the property has archaeological value dating back to the French Colonial and Danish Plantation Eras. Not to mention, this is one of the last preserved views of what St. Croix looked like in the plantation days. On October 6th, 2009, Virgin Islands Representative Donna Christensen submitted a bill to the Congressional Natural Resources Committee in favor of creating a National Park at Castle Nugent Farm, effectively preserving this important piece of land and culture in the Virgin Islands. If you’d like to learn more or get involved in supporting this initiative, check out this Facebook group which is has been organizing a grassroots push in support of the park. Check out our GoToStCroix.com feature article about hiking Castle Nugent for a real experience of this environment.
If you’re interested in this unique, beautiful cottage and living in a part of St. Croix’s history, please check out our page for more information.
I love this part of the island! I’ve visited Castle Nugent and love the quietness and country feel out there.
Paula