If you want to find incredible views, ask an astronomer. Noted American star gazer Fred Lawrence Whipple adored Great Camanoe in the British Virgin Islands, so when building his Caribbean family retreat here in 1960, he chose the ultimate spot on the isle. Its spectacular viewpoint overlooks Scrub Island and Marina Cay with sweeping views from Eustacia and The Dogs through to Beef Island and Tortola. What became known as Whipple House was one of the first homes built on Camanoe, surrounded by 4.24 acres of breathtaking property that earned the name Stargazer.

Surrounded by beautiful cacti, orchids, and loblolly trees, Whipple House was built to last of stone and timber, and consists of three original master suites that have since been united and opened up to let in the light. A full renovation in 2008 enhanced the features of the original home, and the results are stunning. Some of the walls of this reinforced steel and concrete block home have been faced with stone, adding a dramatic, earthy architectural sophistication that complements the timbered cathedral wooden rafters and beams. The roof structures are secured with steel and concrete columns all the way to the foundations, and the floors are covered in Mexican Saltillo tiles. Large farmhouse doors open up the main suite. A barbeque area joins the master bedroom and living area with the second bedroom, while the third unit remains isolated. Each bedroom features stone arch windows to look onto the new wooden decks overhanging the hillside.

Access to Great Camanoe is by boat, so living at Stargazer is sublimely remote. A communal library and mailing post on the beachfront provide a reading room and message center for residents—essential pre-telephone, but still serving their purpose today. The island has cars for transport, but a boat is necessary to cross to neighboring islands. From Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on nearby Beef Island, you'll arrive at your hilltop retreat and its unmatchable vistas within 15 minutes of landing.