Robert Louis Stevenson Museum
Introduction
The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, located in the village of Vailima above Apia in Western Samoa, offers guests a unique window into the final years of the celebrated Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson. Nestled at the eastern foot of Mount Vaea, this museum occupies the house Stevenson built and lived in during his last five years. It serves as both a literary memorial and a beautifully preserved historic site that invites visitors from around the world.
About the Museum
The museum is housed in Villa Vailima, the residence Stevenson constructed between 1890 and 1891 on a 314‑acre estate, naming it after the nearby Samoan village. The building includes multiple bedrooms, a library, and historically it was the only residence in Samoa to feature a working fireplace.
Following Stevenson’s death on December 3, 1894, his body was carried by Samoans up to the summit of Mount Vaea and buried there, fulfilling his wish to rest overlooking his home. Today his gravesite can be reached from the museum grounds via a trail known as the “Road of Loving Hearts”.
Over the decades, Villa Vailima served as residence for colonial governors and later the Samoan head of state, before being substantially restored. On 5 December 1994, exactly one hundred years after Stevenson’s death, the fully restored building was opened to the public as the official Robert Louis Stevenson Museum by the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum Preservation Foundation.
Inside, the museum presents a curated recreation of Stevenson’s life: it includes period furnishings, literary works, memorabilia, and rare editions of his writings. Although many displayed items are authentic period pieces not originally owned by Stevenson, the setting is designed to evoke his presence and the ambience of his final home. Visitors may enjoy guided tours which are offered daily, and can also browse a gift shop near the entrance.
For reasons of preservation, guests are asked to remove their shoes and refrain from eating inside the museum building.
Interesting Facts
- The museum officially opened to the public on 5 December 1994, one century after Stevenson’s death and burial.
- Villa Vailima once hosted the only functional fireplace in all of Samoa at the time Stevenson lived there.
- Although many possessions on display are not Stevenson’s own, the museum still collects rare editions and Robert Louis Stevenson–related materials through donations.
- Stevenson became known locally as Tusitala, meaning “Teller of Tales”, reflecting his warm relationship with the Samoan people.
- Stevenson is buried atop Mount Vaea, very near the museum estate, reachable on foot via the scenic trail admired by many visitors.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Contact Details
Phone: +6 852 0798
Website: robert-louis-stevenson.org/109-samoa-museum-western-samoa/
Facebook: facebook.com/museumRLS/
Conclusion
The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum in Vailima is a compelling destination for visitors who appreciate literature, history, and cultural heritage. Stepping into Stevenson’s restored home offers a vivid sense of how he lived during his final years in Samoa. The museum’s carefully maintained rooms, literary exhibits, and guided tours create a deeply immersive experience. Beyond the house itself, travellers can also explore the nearby burial site on Mount Vaea, adding emotional resonance to the visit.
Whether you are a devoted fan of Robert Louis Stevenson’s writings or simply intrigued by colonial era architecture and Samoan history, this museum is a memorable and enriching attraction. It stands as a tribute to the legacy of a man who captured the hearts of Samoans and the world alike.
