Caneel Bay Celebrates Earth Day With Tree Planting Program

Caneel Bay Resort on St. John, USVI is all about low-key luxury, green living and commitment to the environment. As part of their 60th anniversary celebrations, the resort has implemented a new Tree Planting Program, pledging to plant 60 new trees on property in the year ahead. Guests are also invited to "plant their own history" at Caneel Bay by working with the groundskeeper to plant trees during their visits to the resort. Caneel Bay will kick-off this program with a tree planting ceremony on Earth Day, April 22, celebrating the legacy of founder Laurance Rockefeller and honoring the generations of horticulturists who have remained faithful to its founder's vision to offer simple splendor in a pristine and natural setting.

This initiative will see 60 hardwoods and indigenous trees take root on Caneel Bay's 170-acres in Virgin Islands National Park. St. John once had an abundance of such trees, but most were lost when the land was cleared for sugar cane cultivation during the European colonial era of the 17th and 18th centuries. These slow-growing, long-lasting trees will be of great importance to the enjoyment of generations of Caneel Bay guests to come.

Of course, ecological preservation has always been a part of Caneel Bay's roots. Laurance Rockefeller opened Caneel Bay 60 years ago to treat guests to simple splendor in a pristine and natural setting. Mr. Rockefeller was as personally invested in the landscape design of Caneel Bay's sprawling property as he was in the architecture of its buildings and interior design of its guest rooms – none of which have ever featured telephones or televisions. He envisioned Caneel Bay as a sanctuary from the stress and distractions of everyday life, where guests could "unplug" and make memories with loved ones, family and friends.

To start making your own memories, go to www.caneelbay.com. Rates from $559.