Stonefield Estate Villas

A romantic hillside hotel with a cluster of 1-3 bedroom cottages: private pools, total peace and awe-inspiring sea and mountain views

A former cocoa plantation, Stonefield Estate was one of the first hotels to open in the small fishing port of Soufriere, and the combination of tranquillity and traditional hospitality on offer here means it remains one of the most easy-going and welcoming places to stay in St Lucia. Set in the hills above the town, it's surrounded by verdant rainforest on one side and the towering peak of Petit Piton on the other; below is the glittering Caribbean Sea.

A collection of gingerbread houses in kindergarten colours, the 17 villas each have a pool in their private gardens. Most also have romantic outdoor showers and (at the very least) little kitchenettes. The gardens have a wild, tropical feel: fecund mango trees drip with nearly-ripe fruit, while hummingbirds vie with bananaquits for the best of the nectar. Abundant greenery and garden gates offer complete privacy and, with a choice of 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms, the cottages will suit whether you’re travelling as a family, a group of friends or a couple. If you want to feel the sand between your toes, the nearest (dark sand) beach is a 15-minute walk away, or there’s a free shuttle bus to the imported white sand at Jalousie Plantation Resort.

Highs

• The views of the sea and Petit Piton are truly awe-inspiring
• The lush tropical surroundings offer masses of space, total peace and quiet, and colourful wildlife - there’s even a nature trail with Arawak petroglyphs
• Nothing beats lying back and watching the sun set over the Caribbean from the hammock on your veranda
• The pretty, comfortable villas have private pools and outdoor showers - perfect for honeymooners
• The flexible catering options mean you can cook for yourself or eat at the poolside restaurant
• This is a great location for a wedding
• The estate is unpretentious, family-run and friendly

Lows

• The accommodation is rather rustic - don’t expect chic boutique style
• Guests tend to keep themselves to themselves - disappointing if you like to make new friends on holiday, but great if you want utter privacy
• The surrounding greenery means you’ll encounter some insect life, so make sure you bring bug repellent
• There are some very steep slopes - not suitable for anyone with mobility restrictions
• You’ll need a hire car to make the most of your time here, though there are shuttle services to nearby beaches and into town