Four Seasons Resort Nevis

Our recent stay at Four Seasons Nevis was nothing short of spectacular. It all started with a brief boat ride from St Kitts which added an extra layer of excitement to our trip and, when we were greeted with the warmest of welcomes, it was evident our time here was going to be really special. The resort itself is the island’s largest and most luxurious, with a wondrous west coast location, meaning stunning sunsets and views over to St Kitts.

Elegantly casual, the accommodation – a range of rooms and suites overlooking the Nevis Peak, the sea or the pool, and an enormous selection of chic villas in three different settings – is all decked out in a brilliant blend of neutral tones and Caribbean-inspired accents, creating a sense of place without being too overwhelming. There’s a wide range of outstanding restaurants that cater to every occasion; a plethora of activities (multiple pools, world-class sporting facilities, a serene spa and free non-motorised watersports); and the staff were tremendous, always smiling and always eager to help.

Montpelier Plantation & Beach, Nevis

A hidden boutique hideaway nestled 750 feet above the Caribbean Sea, in the foothills of Nevis Peak, and reached by a scenic drive through the forest, Montpelier Plantation is surrounded by 60 acres of tropical gardens and built around one of the island’s original 18th-century sugar plantations. Steeped in history, the plantation-style rooms and suites are scattered throughout the gardens, each individually styled with Caribbean touches and private verandas. We particularly liked the inviting two-bedroomed Tamarind Villa with its own plunge pool and a tad more privacy.

For a small property, the dining options are first-class, particularly Restaurant 750. Named for its location, 750 feet above the sea, it’s a truly elegant, unforgettable dining experience. Warm, welcoming and full of Caribbean charm, Montpelier works well for couples, families with kids over six, or anyone who wants to unwind, disconnect, be active and rediscover life’s simple pleasures in an unequivocally unspoiled setting. And, while it is a 20-minute journey from the hotel to the private beach (which comes complete with a bartender, loungers, cabanas and a shower), the hotel arranges complimentary transport every day (or simply lay back and lounge by Montpelier’s 60-foot mosaic pool!).

Belle Mont Farm, St Kitts

Driving up to this West Indian farm-to-table hotel in the north of the island was another treat in itself. The scenic coastal route gives way to a tree-lined driveway that winds its way up to the main hotel area. Set in 400 acres of organic farmland and lush forests at the foothills of Mount Liamuiga, the cottages and two- or three-bedroom villas – some with private pools – are simply decorated in a traditional style with dark wooden furniture and shutters.

The open-air bathrooms are a nice touch, and mod-cons like Netflix and pull-down projectors make it feel like a real home away from home. Head to The Kitchen Restaurant for a seasonal Caribbean menu or the Pool Grille to enjoy a lighter lunch or cocktails. And the monthly Sunday brunch is hugely popular with the locals. The facilities here are top-drawer, from the pool and gym area to the nine-hole golf course; and there are excellent opportunities for hiking and biking. It’s heaven for couples who want privacy, and the organic farm and cooking classes are such an unforgettable experience.

Park Hyatt, St Kitts

As first impressions go, this one was pretty memorable… Show-stopping views out to the electric-blue bay from the lobby’s open and calming space of white. A modern, minimalistic style, with splashes of Caribbean personality, is reflected in every corner of the property, and you feel instantly relaxed even before checking in! Set in Banana Bay on the southern part of the island, with irresistible views of Nevis, everything in the 124 spacious rooms and suites has been carefully considered, with thoughtful touches throughout.

There are three first-class restaurants: The Great House offering delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners; the more rustic, oceanfront Fisherman’s Village – a hotspot for all-day dining; and the adults-only Stone Barn with its sophisticated, elegant vibe. The Island Fort kids’ club keeps youngsters entertained from day to night; the spa is just fabulous; and it’s easy to head over to Nevis for the day from the resort’s private jetty.”