Words by Judith Baker
Tucked away on the tiny, lush Caribbean island of Nevis, Montpelier Plantation and Beach is a luxurious property which combines old world elegance with tropical chic. With its fascinating historical connections, superb position in the shadow of Nevis Peak and restaurants offering gourmet dining in a unique setting it has an individual style and a romantic, exclusive atmosphere. Family owned since 2002, service is attentive and gracious.
The island itself, part of St Kitts and Nevis, is beloved for its natural beauty, charm, peace and quiet, making a stay at Montpelier Plantation and Beach the perfect escape from modern day distractions.
Hotel
Montpelier Plantation and Beach dates back to 1687 when Sir Hans Sloane discovered it and it is now a stunning luxury hotel which has hosted famous guests including Princess Diana, and has been owned by the Hoffman family since 2002.
You enter through huge iron gates into 60 acres filled with lush tropical greenery and exotic plants. The hotel is decorated in traditional colonial style with huge colourful artworks dotted around the property. The focal point is a bright blue freshwater mosaic pool surrounded by palms and flowers.
Although Montpelier is not beachfront, the hotel has its own private and secluded beach a short shuttle away. With stylish cabanas, parasols, loungers and a pavilion with your own personal bartender, you can enjoy a picnic delivered by the hotel for a private paradise experience.
Rooms and suites
Montpelier Plantation and Beach boasts 18 sea-view rooms housed in beautiful bungalows, including 16 rooms and two suites, each with private terraces and an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. Designed to complement the natural surroundings, the spacious rooms are airy and open with exotic accents and are carefully positioned to take advantage of the soothing trade winds. All rooms have stylish en suite bathrooms.
The Tamarind two-bedroom villa has a more contemporary style with a private pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Each bedroom has an en suite bathroom with stunning views of Nevis Peak. The Tamarind Villa also has an iPod docking station, espresso machine and a flat-screen TV. One of my favourite moments was spotting a family of playful monkeys enjoying the sunshine in the gardens outside my room.
Food and drink
A 300-year-old sugar mill standing in the hotel grounds is now the setting for an intimate restaurant. The imposing Mill Privée hosts tasting dinners with wine pairing and is, according to the hotel’s owner Muffin Hoffman, the only restaurant in the world set in a sugar mill. It certainly made an unusual and atmospheric setting for a delicious meal.
Restaurant 750 boasts smart al fresco dining, while poolside Indigo Bar and Restaurant offers casual dining and superb cocktails including the hotel’s own take on a Caribbean classic rum punch.
To do
Alexander Hamilton was born on Nevis and Admiral Horatio Nelson married local beauty and widow Fanny Nisbet here in 1787. A copy of the marriage certificate is on display at the Saint John Figtree Parish Anglican Church and the cotton tree where they were married still stands on Montpelier Plantation. From here it is a short trip to Saddle Hill Fortress, Nelson’s lookout point for spying on enemy ships.
As well as the fascinating Nevis Heritage Trail, which gives an insight into the cultures and historical influence to be found here, the tiny island of Nevis has all the sights and experiences that one expects from a Caribbean destination. Beautiful beaches, hiking trails, water sports and golf are all here and nature lovers will be thrilled to spot families of monkeys, donkeys, lizards and mongoose.
Montpelier has an open air spa, outdoor yoga is on offer and the hotel can arrange snorkelling, sunset cruises, fishing and diving trips. The adventurous can climb Nevis Peak (3,232 feet) or take a gentler hike into the rainforest. The Botanical Gardens are a short walk from the hotel and there are a number of historical sites in downtown Charlestown including the Hamilton Museum.
In a nutshell
Montpelier Plantation and Beach is a beautiful, elegant property which offers attention to detail and discreet service. The privacy and peaceful atmosphere make this a perfect get away from it all experience and the glamorous but comfortable surroundings make guests feel relaxed and at home. The private beach with a personalised picnic adds a touch of exclusivity and nothing is too much trouble for the friendly, obliging staff.
Factbox
Rooms can be booked from £387 for Premier Room to £1,141 for Tamarind Villa.
Address: Montpelier Plantation and Beach, P.O. Box 474 Nevis, West Indies
Telephone: 1-869-469-3462
Website: montpeliernevis.com
Getting there
British Airways flies twice a week to St Kitts. Guests travel from St Kitts to Nevis by a short scenic ferry ride and transfer to Montpelier is arranged from the ferry port.
All imagery credit: Montpelier Plantation and Beach
