Escape to St. Lucia
From romantic couples retreats to stylish family getaways, some of Saint Lucia’s top destinations await you.
By Lindsey Epperly
As a honeymoon specialist, I’m always looking for the most romantic getaways for brides and grooms, which is why the Caribbean Island of St. Lucia is one of my best-selling destinations. I took a quick trip to this tropical paradise to explore thirteen resorts in four days, but I’ve narrowed it down to my top three picks for honeymooners.
CAP MAISON
With its white villas set against the perfect backdrop of a cerulean blue sea, Cap Maison is perhaps the most picturesque of St. Lucia’s resorts. The first thing I noticed was the welcoming environment. With only 50 rooms, the property feels more like a private residence than a hotel. “Nothing was designed on the drawing board to make it romantic,” said General Manager Ross Stevenson, “but the end product is a place where people feel very comfortable.” Producers of The Bachelor certainly agreed; they selected Cap Maison as their resort of choice for the penultimate rose ceremony on Season 14.
The resort’s most popular accommodation among honeymooners boasts picture-perfect views from a private terrace and rooftop pool. Stevenson even suggests having the staff set up a private dinner on the rooftop terrace. “We like to make it as personal and focused on the couple as we possibly can.” Cap Maison is the perfect choice for honeymooners who want the privacy of a villa and the convenience of resort amenities. Guests can choose to relax in Spa Maison and dine at Cliff at Cap, which changes menus daily to accommodate guests’ needs. As an added benefit, wine enthusiasts will love the on-property wine cellar and private tastings from the collection of over 200 hand selected wines from 13 countries. Rooms starting at $405 per night plus 18% tax based on double occupancy.
Ask me to set up a private dinner at Rock Maison, a deck located on a rocky crag surrounded by the ocean. Order an extra bottle of champagne and the bartender will send it down by way of a champagne zip line!
SANDALS GRANDE ST. LUCIAN
During my time in St. Lucia, I stayed at the Sandals Grande St. Lucian in the comfort of a butler-level suite. My personal butler took care of my every need, like unpacking my bags upon arrival, bringing me an extra piña colada on the beach, and drawing up rose petal baths in the evening. I welcome anyone to challenge this level of service. Since Sandals Grande St. Lucian is an all inclusive resort, guests won’t have to stress over budgeting during their trip. All food and drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, airport transfers, gratuities, and non-motorized water sports are included in the upfront price. “We offer our clients more value for their money,” says General Manager Winston Anderson. Anderson held true to his word when he invited my group to dine inside the iconic Sandals Sunset Tower, where that value was evident. We were treated to succulent lobster tails and the finest cuts of steak, as well as premium drinks.
This level of quality extends to the seven on-property restaurants, which consist mainly of intimate, à la carte options for the most romantic experience. For even more choices, Sandals Grande St. Lucian provides an hourly shuttle to the other two Sandals properties in St. Lucia, taking the total number of included dining options to a whopping seventeen. Because the property is adults and couples only, guests need not worry about screaming children at the pool or spring breakers partying in the room next door. A honeymoon at Sandals is all about focusing on one another. “Everything we do here is for two people in love,” Anderson stated. Although the Grande St. Lucian is about 300 rooms, the smaller property size gives it an intimate feel. For a truly unique experience, check out the Rondovals, which are round, villa-like accommodations that Anderson refers to as, “Suites with a difference.” Rooms starting at $452 per night, based on double occupancy.
Ask me about arranging a helicopter transfer from the airport to the resort. The included car transfer takes about an hour and a half, but the helicopter gets you there in half an hour and you get to see the island of St. Lucia by sky!
JADE MOUNTAIN
Honeymooners seeking the most serene environment for relaxation and romance should look no further than Jade Mountain. With its winding walkways and bubbling koi ponds, I immediately noticed a feeling of tranquility. “Jade Mountain has been designed for the celebration of life and, above all, love,” explained Karolin Troubetzkoy, Director of Operations. Perhaps this is why Jade Mountain has been voted the most romantic resort in the Carribean.
Because of its hilltop location, each sanctuary has stunning views of the Piton Mountains, St. Lucia’s most notable geographic landmarks. The boutique property of less than 30 rooms boasts magnificent accommodations. Each room, or “sanctuary,” is missing the fourth wall, which allows couples a unique open-air experience in their room. Almost all of the sanctuaries feature private infinity pools, which softly cascade over the edge of the missing wall, creating the illusion that the pools are spilling into the distant sea.
While not relaxing in their private sanctuaries, honeymooners can enjoy the two white sand beaches, escorted snorkeling trips, and much more. Couples staying at Jade Mountain also have exclusive privileges to Anse Chastanet resort, which provides more on-property dining options and resort facilities. Room rates at Jade Mountain start around $950 per night for a room with a jacuzzi (not the pool rooms).
Ask me about arranging a private sunset cruise on Serenity, Jade Mountain’s private yacht. svm
COLUMBUS TRAVEL PERKS
Cap Maison: Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability), daily break - fast, 4 nights or more receive a $100 spa credit.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian: Honeymoon amenities including sparkling wine upon arrival, a flower petal turndown service for your first night, and breakfast in bed one morning.
Jade Mountain: $100 Spa credit, Upgrade on Arrival (subject to availability), daily breakfast
LINDSEY EPPERLY is a luxury travel consultant at Columbus Travel who enjoys preparing custom-made vacations for her clients. To find out more about Lindsey’s travel planning and\ request a trip, please visit her personal planning site at www.lindseyepperly.com.
