Fond Doux

A tranquil heritage plantation looking out to the Pitons, where simple cottages and a lush tropical garden provide a secluded retreat

Fond Doux translates from local patois as 'sweet valley', and this 250-year-old plantation certainly lives up to its name. Still producing cocoa, it's one of oldest working plantations in the Caribbean and its dense tropical gardens of trees, fruits and flowers provide a glorious scent all year round.

Local owners Eroline and Lyton Lamontagne spent 10 years restoring the derelict site into the restorative haven you see today. They relocated 1 and 2-bedroom cottages from nearby Castries, added a triple cascading swimming pool, and generally refurbished with eco practices and nature preservation in mind.

With only 10 cottages and a suite set in 135 acres of lush grounds, it’s ideal for those who treasure privacy and want an authentic experience of St Lucia. Indeed, it's a different world from the slick hotel resorts that line the coast. Perhaps first impressions are that it needs a lick of paint, but it’s all part of the plantation charm - and you'll be seduced by the peace and natural beauty in no time.

Highs

• You're near the World Heritage site of the Pitons and volcano, but far from the sulphur smell
• The restorative views, generous private decks and rocking chairs are ideal for soothing away a tiring journey
• The colourful gardens are so expansive that you rarely see other guests - honeymooners will love it
• This is a bird-watcher’s and horticulturalist's paradise at any time of year
• The rooms are techno-lite, with no TV or WiFi; pure escapism

Lows

• It might be too rustic for some - the odd tile is missing, and the energy-saving bulbs are a little harsh on the eye
• The journey here involves continuous hair-pin bends - it's worth it for the views, but you may get queasy
• Occasional cheesy muzak from the bar (Mariah Carey) breaks the quiet, and the spell
• Large parties of cruise-ship tourists descend once a week for lunch, but you can always hide in your cottage
• The food is good but the menu is limited, and there are no other restaurants within walking distance