THE MYSTIQUE OF THE OLD CARIBBEAN: MONTPELIER PLANTATION &BEACH
Nestled on the charming island of Nevis, Montpelier Plantation & Beach is a boutique hideaway that blends historic elegance with contemporary luxury.
Situated on 60 acres of lush tropical hills at the base of the majestic Nevis Peak, Montpelier Plantation &Beach is the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of modern life. Its idyllic setting—750 feet above the Caribbean Sea and just six miles from its own private beach—offers a tranquil escape steeped in history and natural beauty.
Montpelier Plantation &Beach: A History as Rich as Its Surroundings
Montpelier Plantation &Beach story begins in 1687 when Sir Hans Sloane, secretary of the Royal Society of England, stumbled upon its secluded location. Later, in 1787, the estate became the backdrop for the wedding of Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson and Frances Nisbet, solidifying its place in history. Once a thriving sugar mill, Montpelier flourished through the centuries before its transformation into a boutique hotel in the 1960s. Today, remnants of its storied past remain, including the grand sugar mill, now the renowned Mill Privée restaurant.
The Hoffman family has owned Montpelier Plantation &Beach since 2002, elevating it to new heights with careful renovations, including the addition of villa suites, an upgraded reception area, and a private beach. Under their stewardship, Montpelier Plantation &Beach has become a celebrated Relais & Châteaux property, offering a sophisticated yet unpretentious Caribbean escape.
An Enchanting Stay at Montpelier Plantation &Beach, Nevis
Montpelier Plantation & Beach’s 18 sea-view rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings. Each accommodation features airy layouts, private terraces, and chic accents that echo the island’s vibrant character.
- Premier Rooms: With 535 square feet, these cozy spaces feature garden views and inviting outdoor terraces.
- Plantation Rooms: Slightly larger at 540 square feet, these rooms offer verandas with ocean views, recently redesigned with contemporary touches.
- Garden Suite: At 790 square feet, this suite is surrounded by lush vegetation and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, bamboo floors, and a luxurious four-poster bed.
- Tamarind Villa: This 1,472-square-foot villa offers modern luxury, including a private pool, espresso machine, and breathtaking views of Nevis Peak and the sea.
Dining Experiences Like No Other at Montpelier Plantation &Beach
Montpelier Plantation &Beach culinary offerings are a feast for the senses, with three distinct venues showcasing Caribbean flavors fused with European and Mediterranean influences.
- The Terrace: Overlooking the twinkling lights of Charlestown and St. Kitts, The Terrace serves light, locally sourced cuisine in a stunning alfresco setting.
- Indigo: For a more casual dining experience, Indigo blends island charm with refined service, offering fresh salads, sandwiches, and creative cocktails.
- Mill Privée: Housed in a 300-year-old sugar mill, this one-of-a-kind restaurant combines historic ambiance with innovative tasting menus paired with exquisite wines.
The hotel’s wine and rum collection adds another layer of indulgence, featuring exceptional vintages and aged rums that pay homage to Nevis’s plantation heritage.
Activities and Adventures around Montpelier Plantation &Beach
Montpelier Plantation & Beach invites guests to unwind or embark on Caribbean adventures. Relax on the hotel’s private beach, a pristine oasis accessible via a short shuttle ride. For the active traveler, Nevis offers hiking trails, rainforests, and the challenging climb to Nevis Peak. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy kayaking, sailing, and deep-sea fishing, while history buffs explore plantation ruins and Georgian architecture.
The nearby Robert Trent Jones II Golf Course offers a world-class golfing experience, and day trips to St. Kitts or St. Barts can be easily arranged.
A Celebration of the “Old Caribbean” at Montpelier Plantation &Beach
Nevis is a charming island that preserves the mystique of the “Old Caribbean.” With no traffic lights and a single main road, it offers a glimpse into a simpler time. Local attractions include the Museum of Nevis History, housed in an old Georgian stone building, and the Botanical Garden of Nevis, a tropical paradise showcasing the island’s biodiversity.
Montpelier’s enduring allure lies in its ability to combine the old-world charm of a former British colony with modern sophistication. It’s a place where guests can sip cocktails under the stars, revel in the soothing trade winds, and forge lasting memories in a timeless Caribbean setting.
Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a tranquil retreat, or an exploration of Caribbean history, Montpelier Plantation & Beach promises an experience like no other—a true Caribbean gem waiting to be discovered.
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