Travel
Visit this under the radar Caribbean island
Add the laidback island of Nevis to your bucket list and leave the hubbub of home behind
By Cheryl Caira
“Another day in paradise,” muses our new friend Bernal, as he picks us up for a mosey round the easy-breezy, sun-drenched island of Nevis. I’m lucky enough to be making my Caribbean debut while temperatures have plummeted in the UK, and I’ve never seen shimmering waters like it. The more petite of the two islands within the nation state of St Kitts & Nevis, the pace of life is gloriously laid-back, relatively crowd-free and full of scenic spots.
Views atop Nevis Peak
Its name is a variation on ‘nieve’, the Spanish word for snow, because Christopher Columbus misidentified the clouds atop the island’s highest point: Nevis Peak. This rainforest-covered stratovolcano can be as spectacular as the idyllic beaches back at sea level. For now, though, we’ve decided to ascend the 985m volcanic peak to get a feel for the satsuma-shaped terrain. After a challenging hike under the watchful gaze – and chirping chorus – of tiny tree frogs, we emerge from the lush foliage to heart-stopping 360-degree views. If paradise means boundless views across the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, we’ve met our match.
Where to stay
Hermitage Inn
One of the most historic properties on the island – with the Great House dating back to the 17th century – the Hermitage Inn’s restored island cottages offer up beautiful views of Nevis Peak. The 13 guest rooms all have a tranquil feel, with four poster beds and hammocks on every porch. Relax and try to spot the families of vervet monkeys that weave their way through the trees.
Poolside at the Montpelier
Montpelier Beach hotel
Honeymooners make a beeline for this hotel, and for good reason. The boutique retreat has everything you need for a luxury sojourn – seclusion, cocktails that pack a punch by the pool, and its own private beach if the mood takes you. Options for foodies include fine dining Restaurant 750 with its dreamy ocean vista or a candlelit dinner in the hotel’s 300-year-old sugar mill.
Seafood at Golden Rock Nevis
Where to eat
Golden Rock Hotel
Stunning day or night, it’s the tropical ambience – with koi ponds, swaying palms and vibrant flora – that really makes Golden Rock a delight of a dining experience. The menu at the intimate Rocks restaurant is Caribbean cuisine on a delicious level, with chunky conch chowder and green curry shrimp with fried plantain just some of the highlights.
Yachtsman Grill
Embrace your inner sailor at this nautical-themed establishment, in prime position for watching the sunset over one of the island’s bonniest beaches at Hamilton Beach Villas. Just a hop, skip away from the Four Seasons Resort, there’s a buzzing atmosphere with a little bit of something for everyone – pick from crispy cajun calamari, an array of pizzas and salads, and the famous lobster mac n’ cheese.
Don’t miss
Sunshine’s Beach Bar
Killer Bee anyone? A legendary island initiation that isn’t for the faint-hearted, Sunshine’s tempting passion fruit rum punch – made with a secret recipe – will definitely sneak up on you. Enjoy the Pinney’s Beach vibes and live music, and grab some jerk chicken to keep the hunger at bay.
instagram.com/sunshine_beachbargrill_nevis_
Stroll the Botanical Gardens of Nevis
Botanical Gardens of Nevis
A picturesque place to wander featuring more lovely views of Nevis’ most famous volcano, the most notable feature of this serene garden is the Thai Pavilion, surrounded by a water lily pond. There’s also a stunning orchid terrace, palm garden and some spiky contenders in the cactus garden.
Chrishi Beach
Turquoise waters and a view of St Kitts across the way are the order of the day at Chrishi Beach on Nevis’ northwestern coast. The gentle waves are perfect for chilled-out swims, or just head to the beach club or Love Shack Bar and become even more enamoured with the island.
British Airways flies direct to St Kitts twice a week from London Gatwick. Nevis is a 45-min ferry journey from St Kitts
