Captiva Island is a unique setting off the west coast of Florida. Located adjacent to the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Captiva has been the destination of choice for those who desire a laid-back Florida of the early 20th century sans traffic, congestion and chain restaurants. A destination which truly defines relaxed. This semi-tropical paradise is where the famous 20th century artist Robert Rauschenberg set up his studio and painted during the later years of his career enjoying the unique light and the diversity of year-round scenery.

Sandhurst Estate gained notoriety as the centerpiece of MTV’s Summer Beach House (2004), yet the owners have since rectified the situation as the estate has also been featured on HGTV’s Vacation Living Show as the Ultimate Dream Vacation Home and in Martha Stewart Living Magazine’s Leaf Print Fabrics article.

Sandhurst Estate captures the luxury of yesteryear while embracing the modern era. The bayfront Estate on Roosevelt Channel (the Gold Coast of Captiva Island) is Colonial West Indies style reminiscent of the colonial homes of the Caribbean.  When guests first enter the grounds, the estate is often mistaken for a resort. The multi-level estate with its pink/salmon hue and white trim recalls the mansions of Palm Beach. As was tradition of the mansions of the era, public rooms are expansive and private chambers denoted by name and each individually furnished.

The eight (8) bedrooms sleep 20 in supreme luxury; the biggest dilemma for guests is to choose which chamber would be most to their tastes. Each bedroom is individually designed including furnishings and accessories from Sanderson, Ralph Lauren, Ken Done, Brunschwig & Fils, and Sandhurst embroidered Frette & Peacock Alley Bathrobes.

THE MASTER RETREAT:  Is known for its custom queen bed and access to a private veranda and beautiful views. Guests will embrace the exquisite granite tile, Baldwin brass fixtures, the jetted tub and when enjoying morning coffee on the verandah, signature Sandhurst snuggly robes.

THE PINEAPPLE SUITE: The symbol of hospitality worldwide offers its guests a 4-poster queen bed and a one-of-a-kind water view from the 20’ x 20’ verandah. The en suite bathroom was set with European tile and offers a handicap-accessible shower and toilet.

THE BIG BAMBOO RETREAT: Is aptly named due to the unique and one-of-a-kind hand-crafted Indonesian bamboo 4-poster queen bed, en suite bathroom and a private veranda and water views.

We have written about Sandhurst Estate prior, one of the most fabulous vacation rentals available in south Florida. Few vacation rentals can sleep 20 in comfort. Sandhurst is more than a vacation rental; it is a private two acre resort retreat for the discerning few who appreciate the luxury and amenities associated with a private estate property.

The estate manager for the Sandhurst Estate is offering a 15th Anniversary promotion:

Make a reservation at Sandhurst by December 31, 2009 for travel in 2010 at a weekly rental rate of $10,975.00 (plus taxes and cleaning)*

The Sandhurst Estate is the perfect vacation rental/venue for

Weddings
Family Reunions
Corporate Gatherings
Private Parties
Birthday/Anniversary Celebrations
Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
Tennis Camps
Fishing Groups
Charity Functions
Cooking Classes
Religious and Spiritual Retreats
Golf Outings

Guests will enjoy:
Lush tropical grounds on almost 2 acres
Bayfront with boat dock and Kayak. Lifejackets for children.
Private, gated Gulf of Mexico beach access - beach chairs included.
Oversized heated pool with beach towels and pool toys.
Private tennis court - bring your own racquet or use theirs!
State-of-the-art gourmet kitchen featuring Viking Stainless Steel appliances.
6 burner gas commercial stove, 2 warming drawers
3 U-Line beverage refrigerators, U-Line Wine Captain, U-Line Ice maker,
Dual Bosch dishwashers
Outdoor stainless DCS grill
1 Poolside bar with keg cooler, 1 upstairs bar, 1 pavilion service bar
Concierge Services - staff available upon request (additional cost)

* Rate applies to non-holiday weeks only and excludes: New Years, President’s Week, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th Week, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas. Holiday weekly rates are:

$16,500 Christmas/New Years/President’s/Easter Week
$14,000 Thanksgiving Week
$12,750 July 4 week

Many famous houses in Florida boast of their provenance or their heritage. We guarantee The Sandhurst Estate, a private compound on almost two acres has a unique provenance one does not encounter often. The compound was featured as 2004 MTV’s Summer Beach House with Usher, as the Ultimate Dream Vacation Home on HGTV’s Vacation Living Show and in Martha Stewart’s Living Magazine. Sandhurst Estate is the perfect option for a relaxing vacation home, family reunion, corporate (discreet) retreat, special event or destination wedding.

The waterfront estate captures the architecture of Florida and the Caribbean in its Colonial West Indies style with 8 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms accommodating 20 guests in opulent yet laid-back comfort and style. On the estate grounds, guests enjoy the oversized heated pool with poolside bar and keg cooer, a tennis court, and boat dock (kayaks included). Of course, for the beach experience, just use the private access to one of the finest beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.  Additional island pastimes include golf, boating, kayaking, snorkeling, nature walks, shelling, biking, parasailing and fishing.

While we may suggest employing the services of the private chef, you are just a short distance from the village of Captiva. This secluded unspoiled tropical village offers guests gourmet restaurants, outdoor cafes, boutiques and art galleries (the late artist Robert Rauschenberg kept a home and studio on the island).

Leave the madras and Lilly Pulitzer attire in Palm Beach, when visiting Captiva Island its all about relaxation, rejuvenation and restoration, all within luxury surroundings found few places on this earth.