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MORE THAN AN ISLAND PARADISE

Saint Kitts & Nevis

The two islands of Saint Kitts & Nevis form one nation, separated by a short channel called The Narrows. Known for its laid-back ambience, you'll find a rich culture, stunning scenery and plenty of places for relaxation - or 'liming' as the locals call it.

In many ways, Saint Kitts and Nevis are islands typical of the West Indies. But then, in many ways, they’re not. So, it’s a big yes to friendly local inhabitants, great beaches, golf, old plantation houses, warm seas, bars that serve a mean rum punch and top-notch hotels. But on both islands, there’s plenty more to do than just bask by a pool, if you want. Find out everything you need to know about St Kitts and Nevis.

"Both Saint Kitts and Nevis are renowned for their sandy beaches. St Kitts’s marine life and coral rich waters lap against ink-black beaches in the north, while the southern stretches tend to be grey or white sand. The reef-protected shores of Nevis are perfect for snorkelling and swimming."

CULTURAL CARIBBEAN

On St Kitts, you can go hiking in the crater of Mt Liamuiga or ride for 29km on a 100-year-old locomotive that used to haul sugar cane, if you’d rather let the train take the strain. Catch a game of cricket in Basseterrre. And explore a 17th-century British fort at Brimstone Hill that is one of the best-preserved examples in the Caribbean.

Over on Nevis, wander between the Georgian and Victorian buildings in the capital, Charlestown, and if you’re feeling up to it, climb 970m-high Mt Nevis. Hire a car – watch out for monkeys and wild donkeys – to discover more about the island where Lord Nelson was married, and where Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the USA and the name behind the smash-hit Broadway musical, was born. On Friday nights go “liming” (relaxing) with the locals for a roadside cookout accompanied by a few chilled Carib lagers.

Park Hyatt, St Kitts

With one of the best spas in the Caribbean and a gorgeously secluded spot on Banana Bay, Park Hyatt Saint Kitts is blissful place to relax and rejuvenate.

Overlooking the palm-tree flanked sands of sleepy Banana Bay on the southernmost tip of the island, the luxury Park Hyatt St. Kitts is the most recent luxury hotel addition to grace this undiscovered Caribbean island.

Modern in style, the sleek rooms and suites have a contemporary decor. There’s a choice of three restaurants, or explore Christophe Harbour next door to eat, drink and dance to local bands. The pools offer the best of both worlds with a quiet, adults-only infinity pool and a family-friendly beachfront lagoon pool, which is just a few steps from the sand. By day, you’ll be lulled by a live reggae band.

The hotel is also home to the Caribbean’s first Miraval Spa. This huge destination spa promises to take spa-goers on a wellness journey to balance the ‘four pillars’ – Challenge, Improve, Renew and Indulge, through sunrise meditation, mindfulness breathing techniques and weightless water experiences alongside more traditional massages, scrubs and facials.

Belle Mont Farm - St Kitts

For a different perspective, consider Belle Mont Farm, in the northwest of the island, set high up on a hillside with spectacular views. From its hillside perch on St Kitts’ north coast, you can see right across the sea to the neighbouring Saint Eustatius and Saint Barths. The resort is 1000 ft above sea level with its own micro-climate.

Cottages offer the luxury of privacy, with a fabulous outdoor bathroom with freestanding tubs and vanity area set on a verandah. You also have a private pool to enjoy at leisure. At night, you can pull down a screen and bring out a projector for your very own cinema for two, complete with popcorn. There’s also a choice of one-to-four bedroom villas, crafted from local stone, and for a larger family or group of friends, there’s The Farmhouse, which can sleep up to eight.

When it comes to eating, Belle Mont prides itself on fresh, sustainable dining and 90% of ingredients at its Kitchen Restaurant are locally sourced. For an immersive experience have a bespoke dinner at the farm bringing a whole new meaning to farm-to-table. Gather at the communal table to taste the freshest farm foods and mingle with other guests.

Montpelier Plantation, St Kitts & Nevis, Caribbean

Montpelier Plantation - Nevis

It’s only a short hop by boat to Nevis, and Montpelier Plantation, a member of Relais & Chateaux, makes a great base if you want a two-centre stay on St Kitts’ neighbour. Situated in 24 hectares of private tropical gardens on the slopes of Mt Nevis, it’s a superb spot in which to relax and unwind. There are just 19 bedrooms here, all individually decorated, and with Egyptian cotton sheets, impressive views of the volcano and sea and most have their own private veranda. All rooms are charming but we especially love Tamarind Villa with its own plunge pool.

The resort has a pool but it also has its own stretch of beach with complimentary transfers, if you’d rather feel the sand between your toes and the chance of a dip in the Caribbean. When it comes to time to eat, there are two restaurants at Montpelier serving delicious West Indian and international dishes, with locally-caught fish a speciality. For a treat book an intimate, candlelit, five-course tasting menu for two at Mill Privée, the property’s converted 300-year-old sugar mill.

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