Vieques, an island municipality of Puerto Rico, is situated eight miles off the mainland and reached by small plane in 22-minutes from San Juan or 10-minutes from Ceiba. A ferry also runs roundtrip from Ceiba to Vieques daily. It is home to the HIX Island House, a hotel with a unique connection to nature. A place where one is allowed to recharge and return home rejuvenated.

Spread over 13 lush acres scattered with lemon, banana, and papaya trees, 6 modernistic buildings dot the landscape. John Hix, the architect of the hotel, has strived to make his structures fit with nature, not the other way around. Strategically located to capture cooling trade winds, and designed to provide shade to those on the inside, the views perfectly frame the expansive vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscape. 

Opening the oversized roll-up door on one end of the Solaris Loft 2, and the shuttered window on the other, the 1,010 square foot room is transformed into an open-air oasis. A canopy of trees, a far-reaching view to St. Croix, and warm breezes flutter from one end of the room to the other. The sun beams off soft mosquito netting and a sleek concrete kitchen countertop. So strikingly beautiful, my body and soul awash in peacefulness and awe.

This island oasis is a short distance to the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, considered one of the most ecologically diverse refuges in the Caribbean. With over 28 beach entrances, coastal lagoons and mangrove wetlands, it’s home to over 170 bird species and nesting places for leatherback, hawksbill and green sea turtles. Manatees have been sighted swimming in the surrounding waters.

While exploring, we found each beach to be different, and we visited over 15. A few offered rocky fishing spots and far-reaching views, others we discovered, possessed unspoiled, calm seas ideal for snorkeling. All were exquisite with the sea ebbing at the shore. Perfect for calming the mind.

I’m sure each visitor will have their favorite beach, mine was La Chiva, entrance #8 to be specific. With its crystal-clear turquoise water, pristine sand, and beckoning sand bar, it would cause anyone to slow down and savor the moment.

It’s late afternoon when we returned to HIX from a day of snorkeling and beach hopping. We strolled the luscious grounds as we headed toward the fifty-foot pool and panoramic deck.

The pool runs off the sun with minimal chemicals, using instead a method of ionization, with copper and silver, for their natural algaecide and antimicrobial properties. A gentle trickle of water falls into the pool, the smell of jasmine and lush flowers from the cascading blooms surround the sundeck. The endless panorama soothes my body and mind, embracing me, eliciting a sense of mindfulness, of being present in the moment.

At HIX Island House, sustainable practices rule. Solar provides electricity and hot water. Shower and sink greywater nourish the surrounding landscape. The HIX gives back as much as it takes. 

Heading back to our room there’s an outdoor, but very private, shower on the balcony. With views to the ocean and cooling, gentle trade winds, it was liberating and as close to a perfect shower experience as one can get.

When it’s time to say goodnight, indulgent Frette towels and linens, and Neeva Gayle nightshirts are soft and comfy. There are no distractions; no TV or WIFI (available at the front desk only).

Stretched out on lounge chairs on our expansive private balcony, my husband and I gaze at the countless diamond stars dotting a dark, yet brilliant sky. We point out constellations and the occasional, elusive shooting star. Eventually, we crawl under the mosquito net. The room, open to the elements, windows free of glass, allow the Caribbean winds to gently blow keeping the bugs far, far away.  

In the morning the spectacular sun rises. Our bed positioned perfectly to capture it, like a movie screen sound and all, as the cacophony of birds awakens us.

In the afternoon, a ride into the tiny city of Isabell II. A charming pueblo with colorful homes, restaurants, and the Conde de Mirasol Fortress (the last Spanish fort built in the Americas), where we learned a bit about Vieques history.

I must mention the horses, over 3,000 of them, who roam freely throughout the island and out and about the hotel grounds. It’s just another dimension that connects visitors to nature.

There’s no better way to reconnect with nature and get away from it all than spending a few days on this island, at this hotel.

Owner John Hix knew what he was doing. The architecture and design fitting in with nature are the HIX Island House’s biggest draw. For those who need a full restoration, the space allows you to savor what you’re seeing, smelling, and hearing. He’s embraced the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi. As things age, they become more beautiful, for there’s beauty in imperfection, in the wisdom of nature, and the natural cycle of life and death.

HIX Island House offers a romantic destination for couples, an enchanting location for weddings, peaceful yoga retreats, (there’s a lovely yoga pavilion with classes offered daily), or a rejuvenating work conference. Breakfast is consistent with the healthy island life with fruits, fresh-baked bread, organic eggs, and Puerto Rican coffee. Beach chairs, towels, as well as a cooler are provided for beach excursions.

I long to experience that feeling again, of getting away from it all and to relax and recharge within the HIX experience. HIX truly keeps giving back in so many ways.

Our stay at the HIX Island House was complimentary, but all views are my own. Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you purchase from one of them, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you.

HIX Island House
HC-02 Box 14902
Route 995, Kilometer 1.5
Vieques, Puerto Rico 00765

HIX Island House.com
(787) 435-4590
info@hixislandhouse.com

Read more about the Hix Island House

For more things to do in Vieques

Sandy Ruyack is the owner and writer of the popular and award-winning adventure travel blog, Boulevards and Byways. Her stories and photographs reflect her love of travel to Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and elsewhere around the world as she introduces readers to off the beaten path destinations and provides travel tips, guides, and vacation inspiration. Through transformative travel experiences, she encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones and take the road less traveled.

Boulevards and Byways has provided written content for an array of hotels, tour companies, and travel publications and assists the travel & tourism industry with growth through engaging content, strategy, and storytelling. Sandy has lived in Brewster, NY for 34 years with her husband and splits her time between the northeast and Luquillo, Puerto Rico.

The post Getting Away from it All at HIX Island House appeared first on Boulevards & Byways.

Hix Island House Eco Friendly Luxury –

Offering refreshingly unique comfort for body and soul, the Hix Island House is located on a 13-acre natural refuge in Vieques, the Spanish Virgin Islands of Puerto Rico. Many people may be wary to choose this tiny island as a vacation destination, which was hard hit by category 4 hurricane Maria.

The reality however, is the pristine beaches are still specimens of untouched beauty and eco-friendly adventure remains provocative and healthy. By providing off the grid accommodations, Hix Island House is living proof of how sustainable living can surpass destructive forces.

Responsible Living Caribbean Vacation 

Solar energy provides electricity and hot water. Cisterns collect the rain water and grey water is used to hydrate the landscape. The buildings are designed to catch cooling trade winds while providing spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. This approach has earned Hix Island House the first Sustainable Tourism Facility Certification from Puerto Rico Tourism and is what gives Hix the opportunity to welcome visitors to the island post Maria.

Hix Architecture & Nature

“I strive to make my buildings fit with Nature,” said John Hix, the architect. “Instead of taking over the jungle, the structures are built around the jungle. My houses are designed to conserve commercial energy, reduce repair and maintenance, minimize the use of chemicals, thus treading lightly on the Earth.”

 

Hix has generously achieved a balancing act between modernism and nature. Six concrete buildings spread out over the property are surrounded by palm, local fruit trees, and plentiful red hibiscus blooms.

Hix Pool & Yoga Studio

A pool provides yet another secluded and quiet oasis with it’s clean lines and surrounding gardens. The outdoor yoga studio, surrounded by dense foliage is inviting and serene. Yoga classes are given on request at the open-air studio most weekday mornings.

Hix Island House Rooms

At Hix Island House the outdoors become indoors.

My husband and I stayed on the top floor of Casa Solaris. We entered the room, the shutters were closed and the room dark. Upon lifting the immense roll up door on one end and the shuttered window on the other, the room transformed into an open-air oasis, melding the indoors with the outside. Warm breezes fluttered from one end of the room to the other like the butterflies in the gardens below. The eternal view to St. Croix above the canopy of trees was framed, like a stunning work of art, by the outline of the soft grey concrete. The sweet hint of blossoms and delicate chirping of birds filled our senses with peace and tranquility.

Think high ceilings, light colored walls which bounce all of the natural light around the room, polished cement floors and counter-tops. A welcoming king size bed positioned toward the stunning vista, assured a view from every angle.

Hix Eco Friendly Luxury Amenities

The bathroom, also with polished cement floors and sink, is where the Frette linens and robes, exclusive Neeva Gayle cotton shirts, and eco-friendly shampoo and conditioner are found. It’s also where there’s access to the private out-door shower with ocean and tree top view.

Serious Eating

A full kitchen, island with stools, and a generous table provide plenty of prep area and seating. On the counter locally made bread and a bowl of fresh fruit, often picked from the trees on property, is like a beacon to the hungry traveler. In the refrigerator, everything one needs to make breakfast; eggs, cereal, juice, Puerto Rican coffee beans, tea, milk, and jam. There’s no better way to start the day with freshly ground coffee and local ingredients for French toast or scrambled eggs.The wild beauty of Hix Island House inspires serious eating.

Hix Location

Hix Island House, located on the Spanish Virgin Island of Vieques, is off the southeast corner of mainland Puerto Rico. Just a 22 minute flight from San Juan, 10 minute flight from from Ceiba, and within 3 hours from Miami makes it an easy trip from any location. Ferry service from Fajardo takes about 1 1/2 hours.

Island of Vieques

Less touristy than some of the other islands in the Caribbean, there are no hi-rise hotels making it a commercial free destination. Options for adventure and exploration are endless. The island’s activities have low impact to the environment staying true to the eco-friendly philosophy of the Hix House.

Vieques Beaches

There is no shortage of beaches. I’m told there are over 40. The Vieques National Wildlife Refuge manages 54% of the island and the more popular beaches that are the definition of stunning – strikingly blue waters and picture-perfect sand. We spent two days exploring over ten different beaches. Some offer unique experiences for the adventure enthusiast; surfing, kayaking, horseback riding, and snorkeling. Other beaches are secluded for relaxing or with family friendly amenities such as grills and lifeguards. The black sand beach offers striking contrasts, while the dazzling colors of sea glass beach is a true find for the collector. A lighthouse, historical WWII Navy bunkers, and archaeological ruins are available to explore.

Vieques Towns

The town of Esperanza is only 7 minutes from the Hix. Here there’s access to the beach, great snorkeling under the pier, beach front bars, restaurants, and boutique shops along the malecon (promenade along the waterfront). The town of Isabel II is 10 minutes away with colorful houses, shopping, restaurants, and a lighthouse. As travel enthusiasts, this is the sort of location we’re always looking for – unique eco-friendly accommodations and everything we need within easy reach. Best of both worlds really! Many restaurants in both towns are open for business and offer delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages.

The Hix Experience

Combine staggering views and inviting eco-friendly serenity of Hix  with an island offering a connection to nature and not commercialism, and you have a winner. The attention to detail, the friendly staff, and a lovely sense of privacy give visitors the opportunity to be close to nature in many forms – all while minimally impacting the environment.

The effects of the hurricane weigh heavily in the local economy and by way of fear in the tourist. Responsible tourism will continue to help Vieques recover and visiting is the most effective remedy. Hix and Vieques are the perfect combination of hospitality and sustainable tourism at its most gracious. Now is the time to visit. Once you get here, you’ll be relieved you did.

Our stay at the Hix Island House was complimentary but all views are my own.

Hix Island House
HC-02 Box 14902
Route 995, Kilometer 1.5
Vieques, Puerto Rico 00765

Hix Island House.com
tel. +1 (787) 435-4590
info@hixislandhouse.com

Like Hix Island House on Facebook

Follow Hix Island House on Instagram

Beach umbrellas, cooler bags, and snorkeling gear are available in the lobby. The staff is happy to make reservations for restaurants, sailing trips, scuba excursions, horseback riding, biking, fishing, and the world-famous Vieques Bio-bay.

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