Nevis has a unique, tranquil charm, with lush vegetation, delectable dining experiences, untamed beaches, and a wealth of historical sites. No other hotel embodies these elements more than the Golden Rock Inn, a captivating, boutique hotel built around an original sugar estate dating back to the early 1800s. Golden Rock is nestled on the slopes of the commanding Mount Nevis, a dormant volcano – the perfect backdrop for a bucket list vacation.
The magic begins as you enter the 40-acre grounds of Golden Rock. The wondrous landscaped gardens, designed by Raymond Jungles and famed for their rare flowers and plants found nowhere else on the island, make every inch of the property a journey of discovery. Once you reach the charming reception, Ivo Richli, General Manager, extends a very warm welcome and offers you a tour of the property, making you feel right at home.
The quaint courtyard sets the tone nicely, with secluded seating areas dotted around the garden and bright pops of colour surrounded by vines and palms leading to the bar for a welcome drink. Pass through the stone arches and marvel at the beauty in front of you: The Rocks restaurant, overlooking the fish ponds, the picturesque gazebo, and on a clear day, you can even spot the islands of Montserrat, Redondo and Antigua in the distance. Renowned for their impeccable service and fantastic food, the menu won’t disappoint; the lobster salad with home-made passion fruit dressing is an absolute must.
The areas beyond the restaurant are only accessible to residents, giving you all the privacy you desire. With just 11 rooms nestled around the gardens, your own little secluded slice of paradise awaits you. Golden Rock also makes the perfect venue for a destination wedding or yoga retreat, where you can use the entire property.
For a couple or family with one or two children, staying in the 19th-century two-bedroom Sugar Mill adds a fairy-tale element to the experience. It is designed and decorated to perfection, with thoughtful additions for the perfect stay.
Ultimate relaxation awaits you by the pool. The vivid colour scheme of the sun loungers, thoughtfully placed around the pool’s stone paving, have the feel of a Tuscan retreat. Only the surrounding mango trees and the occasional glimpse of a monkey can focus the mind back to the Caribbean paradise you find yourself in.
All stays include breakfast, which is truly divine, starting with fresh local fruit, fresh juice, and any cooked breakfast and hot drinks of your choice. (The French toast is our family favourite).
Golden Rock has glorious hiking trails in the nearby vicinity, most lined with soursop trees, custard apple and many varieties of mangoes. Within minutes of the hotel is an unmissable excursion, the Nevisian Heritage Village, which depicts the evolution of Nevisian social history through housing. The replica houses date back from the Carib era and are furnished with antiques and relics of their periods.
Nevis embraces family, and there are a range of events and activities to entertain you during your stay. Mango Festival is a firm favourite, the Cross Channel Swim from Nevis to St. Kitts is also very popular, as is the Culturama Festival. Other activities include horse riding on the beach, Funky Monkey’s all-terrain vehicle (ATV) tours, fishing tours, a soak in the therapeutic hot springs and, of course, a visit to the heritage village.
Visit goldenrocknevis.com to find out more and plan your next escape.
