Rating:
Price:

The popular chain, Sandals, is leaving its footprints all over the sands of the island. In the summer of 2002, Jamaican hotelier Butch Stewart opened his third couples-only (male/female) all-inclusive on St. Lucia. This one is the best of the lot. The luxury resort lies at the causeway on the northern tip of St. Lucia, linking the "mainland" with Pigeon Island, with the tranquil Caribbean Sea on one side and the often more turbulent Atlantic Ocean on the other side. Set on a landscaped 1-hectare (2 1/2-acre) lagoon, the megaresort took over an already existing property, Hyatt Regency, at a point 10km (6 1/4 miles) northwest of Castries at Rodney Bay. With a private golden sandy beach, the most lavish lagoon-style swimming pool on the island, a state-of-the-art spa, and a choice of restaurants, many find it hard to tear themselves away from the grounds.

Even the standard bedrooms are spacious, with antique reproductions in a plantation style. Local art brightens the walls, and the bathrooms are full and luxurious. The fourth-floor rooms have better views, service, and space, and are more comfortable. For the ultimate in luxury, ask for one of the two dozen "swim-up" units with their own free-form pools and terraces. Inquire about the "stay at one, play at three" program where you stay at one Sandals and are able to use facilities at other properties as well.

Facilities: 5 restaurants; 3 bars; 5 outdoor pools; night club; golf privileges; 4 tennis courts; health club and spa; sauna; deep-sea fishing; dive shop; kayaks; sailing; snorkeling; water-skiing; windsurfing; airport shuttle; business services; limited room service; laundry service; nonsmoking rooms; rooms for those with limited mobility.

© 2005, Wiley Publishing, Inc.