Count on the best beach location in St. Lucia, delicious local and international cuisine and a friendly atmosphere.
LOCATION
“We’re on the only white sand beach in St. Lucia,” says general manager Richard Michelin of the resort’s location on Reduit Beach, undoubtedly the best on the island. On the northern end of St Lucia, overlooking Pigeon Island National Park and a short walk from the shops, restaurants and night life of Rodney Bay, the resort provides easy access to Rodney Bay Marina where boats depart for deep sea fishing, and Gros Islet known for its fish fry, a seafood street party. “Per square mile, this area of St. Lucia has the most tourists,” says Michelin, “this is where everyone wants to be.”
ROOMS
An all-white décor punctuated by dark wood with a separate living room and luxurious bathroom, is the look at this recently renovated 95-suite resort. As the property has existed in Rodney Bay for decades, suites are large with balconies and patios for outdoor relaxation (some suites including the presidential are beachfront).
DINING
Although this is not an all-inclusive resort (a bed and breakfast option exists), expect some of the best local dining in the area. Chic serves fine-dining international cuisine and hosts a monthly supper club (a highlight the evening we dined was mahi mahi gently steamed in a saffron peppercorn crème with mango ash pasta, leek and watermelon caviar) while L’Epicure includes regional specialties like Jerk chicken, fish and Johnny cakes. German-Canadian chef Eike Lauff who has lived on the island for 5 years, makes everything from breakfast pastries to desserts in-house. “There are fresh, new ingredients that I had never seen before,” he says adding that integrating local ingredients with a North American spin like breadfruit tater tots, has been exciting. “People come here happy, they are on vacation and it affects you [positively].”
DON’T MISS
Take an evening swim and enjoy the spectacular sunsets on Reduit beach.
THE VIBE
There’s an international crowd of hedonists congregated around the swim-up bar and laying on the beach. From the airy reception to spa facilities, the beach pavilion and pool lounging chairs, “we keep bringing the standard up,” intones guest relations manager, Marie-Anne Johnny.
ROMANCE FACTOR
Romance comes in the form of large bathtubs, poolside cabanas and beach palapas. Flower covered beds, champagne, weddings on the beach are all available upon request.
This original article first appeared in the Spring 2016 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
