the Overlook
ruins

A facinating and ever-changing feature of "the Overlook" gardens are the concrete ruins found on the lower portion of the grounds. These former foundations serve as a reminder of what once stood before the decimating forces of Hurricane Hugo in 1989. The current owners found the historic ruins charming and decided to incorporate them as garden features. A tremendous variety of plants have been placed around the ruins for our guests to explore and enjoy. Papaya trees planted between the beams of the upper ruin produce fruit on a regular basis, perfect for a sunrise breakfast in the gardens.

The lower ruin is used as a personal nursery for growing trees, shrubs, and ornamentals to be used throughout the property. As you continue to explore the grounds you will discover two iron benches shaded by tall bamboo and Puerto Rican Royal palms. This is a wonderful place to sit and relax or have a tete’ a tete’. The ruins add interest and depth to the gardens, providing a series of outdoor rooms and secret gardens for each visitor to enjoy. They will continue to evolve over time and will always be a special part of “The Overlook” property.

The ruins are an integral part of the gardens and some local residents have fondly named it La Ruina. Below La Ruina you will find a gate to the lower road and a less than one-minute walk through the mangrove estuary to La Chata beach and our favorite swimming hole.

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