Fodor's Expert Review Ladera

Perched on the mountain ridge between the two Pitons—and more than 1,000 feet above the sea—elegantly rustic Ladera is considered one of the most sophisticated small inns in the Caribbean. The approach to the furnishings, food, and service is definitively local, specifically eco-friendly, and superbly unique.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Due to its physical setting and ambience, Ladera does not accept children under age 18. Also, the hotel closes for the month of September.

room

The overall design motif here comprises rock, wood, and clay. Each tree house-style Piton Suite and the seven units categorized as luxurious Dream Suites are all decorated with locally crafted furniture, colonial antiques, and unique artwork. Hand-hewn four-poster beds are draped with mosquito netting. Each unit also has an open fourth wall with a dramatic Pitons view as a backdrop for a private plunge pool. All rooms have a sitting area and a mini-fridge. Some rooms have large sitting/dining spaces, and some are split-level.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Rooms are not air-conditioned, but the hillside location is quite breezy. Also, you won’t find any room TVs or telephones.

bathroom

The bathrooms feature walk-in showers, hand-carved wooden vanities with Molton Brown toiletries, wood-plank floors, wooden walls, and brightly colored mosaic tiling. The sinks will definitely catch your eye. While some are modern vessel or basin sinks, others are made of sculptured or tile-lined clay; one has conch-shell faucets!

lobby

Reception is in a small cottage that’s separate from the guestrooms, restaurant, and other common areas such as the small shop and a library/lounge.

pool

There is a small, cliffside infinity pool, with a sundeck surrounded by greenery and open to the dazzling view of the Pitons and the sea beyond. Most guests, however, prefer to take a dip in their own private plunge pool—some of which have a swing, waterfall, or other unique feature.

spa

The Ti Kai Posé Spa (Creole for "Little House of Rest") offers relaxing and therapeutic massages, salon services, and restorative outdoor mineral baths.

gym

A modern gym, set aside in its own air-conditioned wooden bungalow, has cardio machines, free weights, and exercise balls for guest use.

dining

Breakfast (included), lunch, and dinner are served at Dasheene, the resort’s popular terrace restaurant. Daytrippers visiting nearby sites often stop by for lunch with a view. Guests of nearby hotels and resorts often come for the delicious cuisine at dinner. The ambience is casual by day and magical at night.

A small boutique near the entrance to Dasheene sells beachwear, souvenirs, and sundry items.

drinking

The bar adjacent to Dasheene is a perfect place to gaze at the view during the day, watch the afternoon sun disappear between the Pitons, savor a pre-dinner cocktail, and/or toast another perfect day in paradise. The bonus: live local music at the bar every evening.

A small library/lounge area near the bar has books and board games for guests to use during their stay (or while having a drink).

beach

The hotel overlooks Sugar Beach, 1,100 feet down the mountain, which stretches between the Pitons. A complimentary beach shuttle runs throughout the day.