Head, a new set of settlers will soon be arriving, looking for a very different experience.

Regarded by the Canadian military as something of a soft posting, the new vacationers entering the innovative tented-cottages will be hoping the place exudes a gentle warmth during their stay.

But they will certainly not be hoping for a repeat performance of 1853, when Islanders found the abandoned ship Eliza Ann off the mainland -- complete with skeletal remains of its crew.

Named after Governor Daniel Tucker, who came to the Island in 1616, the area became farmland until the Canadian military arrived in 1963.

For more than 30 years, the Naval staff there were part of NATO's high definition radio network -- monitoring ships and submarines in the high seas.

Around 88 personnel and their families were based at the 13-acre site and provided employment for 22 civilians.

After the decision was made to close the base, on cost-cutting grounds, it reverted to Government in January 1994.

The land was then offered to prospective developers, with just one plan being submitted. Sandys residents formed an action group in a bid to take on the complex as a community facility.

Then, in 1997, Destination Villages entered the frame, with an innovative plan to erect "tented cottages'' on the land as part of an eco-tourist resort -- the first of its kind in Bermuda.

"The BLDC worked hard to get Destination Villages to come to Bermuda, because we believe their philosophy will protect and improve the environment, while providing opportunities for the people of Bermuda, particularly in Somerset,'' he said.

Tourism Minister David Allen said the resort reflected the new cultural and heritage tourism experiences offered on the Island, where guests would take educational tours and get close to the Bermudian identity.

"They will be more discerning visitors, looking for a richer holiday experience, to broaden their horizons whilst having a wonderful time here,'' he said.