Haute Spot: Nevis

My new favorite haute spot is the tiny, unspoiled island of Nevis. It’s located just six miles by boat, from St. Kitts in the Caribbean. Nevis is made up of rainforests, reefs and ruins. It’s a lush tropical paradise with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the Nevis Volcano peak at the center of the island. The island is cone shaped and no matter where you go, you can see Nevis Peak surrounded on the coast by beautiful blue water.

Nevis is the place to get away and reconnect with nature… but it’s the Caribbean Sea that always takes my breath away. The energy of the water is soothing and tranquil. The moment that I arrived, and boarded the water taxi to the island was the start of a beautiful week. Although, I didn’t disconnect totally from the world that I left behind, it’s easy to understand why you might in a place where there are no street signs or postal addresses. The people of the island all seem to know each other and as they told me, “You’re only a stranger once in Nevis.”

As I toured old churches, plantation ruins and downtown Charlestown, I came away with a sense of appreciation for an island that remains unspoiled by the modernization of the world beyond its shores. Yes, they have WIFI and modern amenities at most of the hotels and resorts, but they also have a sense of calm

and peacefulness that you can only receive when you let go of things that you can’t control. 

Nevis has been a place of refuge to both the famous like Oprah Winfrey and everyday people who simply go about their daily life free of the stress that comes with living in the big city. If you want to visit a place that causes you to pause to let a crab cross the road, where farm animals are free to roam massive acres of land, and where the sea greets you with a cool breeze daily, then Nevis is the place for you. I have seen many islands in the Caribbean but Nevis is very special. I can’t wait to go back, it’s truly a hidden gem. 

My tips on where to stay, eat and spa in Nevis...

My favorite property is the Four Seasons Resort Nevis. The service

is exceptional and the accommodations are amazing. It's luxury and exclusivity at its best. If you're with family and friends, you must try the private villas; they are haute! The suites are also posh with floor length mirrors and ocean views that haute travels girl love. But, the spa is where the pampering begins with peace and tranquility calling your name.

 If you're looking for a place to dine with a bit of American and Italian flavor, you must try the Yachtsman Grill. Their grilled lobster tail and handmade Italian pizzas are delicious. When it comes to scenic views, while you enjoy an afternoon lunch, there's no better place than the Golden Rock Inn. On a clear day, you can see neighboring islands in the distance like Montserrat. 

If you love a great beach bar and grill, you must try LIME for live

music on a Friday night. It's sure to be entertaining with a lively crowd. The choice of food options range from salads and chicken wings to grilled fish. LIME is just down the beach from The Four Seasons Resort Nevis along the ocean's edge next to a few other beach bars. Its down home feel reminds me of a southern juke joint with lots of hospitality. When in Nevis, you must check it out.  

When it comes to glam dining there are two places that you'll enjoy. My favorite is the Montpelier Plantation blending the past with art deco design giving Miami flavor around the pool bar. The property offers seclusion and elegance with breathtaking beauty that even a princess would love. In fact, the late Princess Diana vacationed there many years ago with her two sons. I had the pleasure of visiting the suite where she stayed.

The Nisbet Plantation Beach Club is also a great choice for dinner.

The atmosphere is plantation chic since you'll be enjoying dinner in the great house. Menu options vary but the grilled lemon mojo marinated chicken breast topped with Mexican salsa is delicious. The cherry apple crumb pie with a side of  strawberry ice cream is a wonderful way to end an unforgettable evening.

Photos Belong to Haute Travels: St. Kitts with Nevis in the background, Cottle Church Ruins, The Hermitage Plantation Inn, Private Villa at the Four Seasons Nevis, Lime, Montpelier Plantation and the Nisbet Plantation Great House