La Haut Resort

Hidden in the hills, this affordable plantation house and cottages offer an insight into the real St Lucia

Sitting high on the hills above sleepy Soufriere, you feel as though you are quite simply on top of the world. Despite its name, this is not a resort at all, but a working cocoa and citrus plantation which is much more than a stop-off for tourists. The fabulous location allows you to experience what it is like to live and work on the land in St. Lucia.

If you manage to drag yourself away from the refreshing pools (there are 2, including a stunning infinity pool at the owners' villa) and from the hypnotic views (of the iconic Pitons), you can ask for a guided tour of the estate and learn how tropical fruits are grown, or help feed the baby goats.

Family-owned and managed by Canadians, this is a relaxed, informal place, where you can watch some TV, pot a few snooker balls, play the old piano and then sample the restaurant's famous fishcakes. It's a must for nature-lovers, whether couples, families or a group of friends: you can book an individual room, a cottage for 4-6, or the whole house for 12.

Highs

• The views of the Pitons and Caribbean Sea are truly spectacular and probably the best on the island
• An unpretentious, homely atmosphere
• A wide choice of rooms and cottages, many with kitchenettes
• Excellent value for money (by Caribbean standards)
• A welcome change from the bland, all-inclusive resorts in the north

Lows

• Rooms are old-fashioned plantation style rather than contemporary chic, and lack some mod cons (TV, phone) - and only a few have A/C - though there is sporadic WiFi
• Solar heating means hot water can be limited in the early morning
• The dawn chorus may wake you earlier than you would appreciate on holiday
• It's high above Soufriere - not for those seeking hectic nightlife or beachside rooms