Bananaquit House

Family friendly staffed villa with stunning views, set in the blossom-filled hills above Soufriere (sleeps up to 12)

Named after the audacious little finches that eat fruit from your hand, Bananaquit House is a 10-minute drive from both the beach and St Lucia’s former capital, Soufriere. This is a comfy, stretch-out and kick-your-shoes-off villa, where the only thing better than watching the sunset is watching the sunset with a rum punch in your hand. Panoramic views over the Pitons are amazing, and the open living/dining room, with its white walls and candy-striped sofas, is a delight.

This 5 bedroomed summery home is perfect for a large family. Kids will vie for a mezzanine den from which they can spy on the grown-ups playing cards or watching a DVD. Parents will love the fact that they can escape to the main bedroom’s private panoramic terrace. You won’t find too much gadgetry (WiFi’s reluctant to get going and there’s no TV reception), but if you can do without the bells and whistles you’ll find the hours slipping by very pleasantly, accompanied by birdsong, sunshine and children’s excited discoveries.

Some of the nicest staff we’ve ever met will take care of your every need: there’s a fine in-house cook (or you can self-cater), cheery housekeepers, a gardener/security man who keeps the pool clean and the house supplied with good vibes, and, last but not least, a soppy German shepherd, Spike, to fall in love with.

Highs

• Lovely, homely feel - you walk in and you belong
• Perfect for children of all ages, with hundreds of toys and games, gardens to explore, a pool to play in, and children's bedrooms
• Staff and Spike are genuinely friendly (it’s a tearful farewell)
• Lots of room to spread out - with 5 airy bedrooms on 3 floors, a massive living space, tumbling gardens and a pool terrace, you won’t be tripping over each other
• You’re within easy driving distance of the volcano, beaches and the rainforest

Lows

• The road up to Bananaquit is steep and bumpy - a Jeep to get around is a must
• The swimming pool is too small to work up a sweat, but a swanky new pool and pool house are planned
• You’ll need more mozzie spray (and bite relief) than you expected
• No nightlife to speak of in Soufriere - you'll be hard-pressed to find a local band playing
• Only 2 bedrooms have air con, and the fans in the other rooms aren't very strong