Caribbean escape

If you have travelled to the Caribbean before, possibly many times, its sometimes difficult to find new properties that seem different, or maybe you are looking for the wow factor to celebrate an occasion.

A while ago I was fortunate to stay at Ladera Resort, located in the pitons of St Lucia.

An exceptional location, award-winning cuisine and attentive staff meeting any need, adults only Ladera Resort is a peaceful retreat perched high on a volcano ridgeline 300m above the Caribbean amidst tropical greenery. Boasting wonderful vistas of the Caribbean Sea and the UNESCO listed Piton Mountains.

There are 37 uniquely designed suites set across the lush hillside. Cleverly designed for complete privacy and constructed from locally harvested hardwood, stone and terracotta, the suites feature an ‘open wall’ design to ensure stunning panoramic views and a feeling of being at one with nature. Each suite features beautifully handcrafted furniture and a private plunge pool; some additionally with cascading waterfall and a wooden swing seat.

The room takes a little time to get used to, not having every stayed in a bedroom with one completely open wall, basically its open to the elements, does seem very disconcerting, however, after a couple of hours or so, and maybe after a night, you are at one with nature and the lush foliage around you, this is quite stunning.

The rooms are 100% private, you would think perhaps you would hear your next-door guests, but no. all your hear is birds, and wildlife, and the water from the fall into your private pool.

Features

Ultimate relaxation can be found in the tranquil surroundings of the spa, or alternatively indulge in a massage in the privacy of your own suite. Cooking demonstrations, bartending classes, a guided garden walk or a tour of the Saturday morning market in Soufriere can easily be arranged for those wishing for something a bit more active than simply lounging by the secluded swimming pool or in the hot tubs in the spa garden. Additionally, a complimentary shuttle service to Sugar Beach is provided daily.

Dining

A delightful fusion of contemporary and traditional Creole cuisine is served at the Dasheene Restaurant where the talented chef creates innovative and eclectic dishes using the very freshest farm-to-table produce, whilst the bar is the ideal spot for a pre-dinner cocktail and live music by local musicians.

The resort makes for a destination in its self, its also a great way to experience a different side of the island, we have many clients that stay at the hotel for 3 / 4 nights and then head off to the beach for 10 nights or so.

It really makes for an extremely different experience, and well and worthily recommended.

Please note this hotel does not accept children under the age of 18 years.