5 St. Lucia Hotels With a Very Long History
Much of St. Lucia’s history focuses on planters who were given land grants in and around Soufrière by the French king. Coconuts, sugar, cocoa, fruits, and flowers were all grown on large mountainside estates, and some of those historic estates have become the island’s main attractions—and resorts. Here are three in Soufrière, along with a tiny B&B in Marigot Bay and a cottage hotel in the north (with a more recent history) that also deserve mention.
Villa Beach Cottages
Why it made the list
A couple of the beachfront gingerbread cottages here were moved from their original location—a World War II-era U.S. air base in Vieux Fort that is now the site of Hewanorra International Airport. One of those cottages was the favorite of St. Lucia native and Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott, who vacationed here many times over the years.
Mango Beach Inn
Why it made the list
It’s tiny, just three small guest rooms, but the historic stone building (rumored to be haunted by the original owner) is tucked into a hillside overlooking one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful scenes—not Soufrière Harbour but, rather, lovely Marigot Bay.
Stonefield Estate Resort
Why it made the list
A lime and cocoa plantation in the 18th century, the 26 verdant acres on this family-owned estate—on the mountainside just south of Soufrière Harbour—are now dotted with rustic self-catering villas, each with a magnificent sunset view of Petit Piton (and daytime view, too).
La Haut Plantation
Why it made the list
On a 52-acre estate overlooking Soufrière Harbour—and with an enviable view of the Pitons—you can stay in a century-old “cocoa house” or in the owner’s mansion—all fitted with modern amenities. Once a cocoa and coconut plantation, you’re still likely to run across an occasional goat, cow, or donkey grazing on the hillside.
Fond Doux Plantation & Resort
Why it made the list
This is one of the island’s oldest plantations, dating back to the mid-18th century, and still the island’s most active. You can stay in a restored cottage filled with antiques, learn how to make chocolate, and roam the 135-acre estate lush with fruit trees, spices, and tropical flowers.
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