Photos by CHRISTIAN HORAN
We hear it all the time: incorporate relaxation and self-care into the daily routine for better overall health.
Perhaps you are trying to squeeze in a quick meditation session before going to bed or seek calm by playing soothing music during the work commute. But the world is tough, it can come at us without mercy, particularly in the last year and a half, so you may need to up your game.
It’s time for a getaway and Four Seasons Resort Nevis is just the place.
Scratching your head at the name Nevis? That’s because it’s a hidden gem many have not had the privilege of discovering. Most travelers are familiar with its rowdier sister island, St. Kitts, which is a water-taxi ride away. Considered one of the Caribbean’s most unspoiled treasures, the island’s 36-mile circumference is verdant, framed by beautiful beaches and crowned by Nevis Peak, an impressive 3,232-foot mountain perched in its center. Die-hard fans of the musical “Hamilton” know Nevis to be the homeland of Alexander Hamilton (there is even a small museum honoring him in the capitol city of Charlestown).
Nestled on a former sugar and coconut plantation built in the 1790s, Four Seasons Resort Nevis recently underwent a multi-million-dollar touch-up, capturing design details that speak of the unique Caribbean spirit: accents of pale sea-foam green harken the island’s shoreline and emerald hues inspired by the diverse foliage also serve as an ode to the mischievous-yet-endearing vervet monkeys that roam the island.
Pampering begins when the friendly hotel staff greet you in St. Kitts (there are no international flights from major carriers in Nevis). Guests enjoy a scenic drive through mountains and coastline followed by a boat ferry to the property’s private dock.
Luxury accommodations within the property’s expansive 350 acres include newly designed guest rooms and suites as well as over 50 upscale private rental homes, each with its own unique flair.
Choose from single rooms to expansive villas featuring breathtaking views of Nevis Peak, the golf course, lush gardens and the Caribbean Sea. Relaxation beckons with the signature spa while sport enthusiasts can enjoy the tennis program and championship golf course (which doubles as a playground for the monkeys when the sun goes down). The clear, turquoise waters of Pinney’s Beach contrasts with volcanic sand that defies logic by being powdery soft. Prefer the pool? Dip your toes in the resort’s signature infinity pool while taking in views of the glistening Caribbean Sea.
Food and drink connoisseurs will find they’ve hit the jackpot here. On the Dune focuses on farm-to-table dining dishes like Caribbean Lobster Bisque with Curry Oil, Local Queen Snapper “Tiradito” with Creamy Avocado and Bang Bang Shrimp & Lobster with Butter-Poached Red Potato, Jerk-Spiced Corn and Grilled Baguette. For those wanting to delve into local cuisine (we highly recommend you do!) the chef offers a curated menu of regional specialties like Curry Mutton and Saltfish Croquette.
Head to Mango for happy hour, sit on the covered patio and watch the sun set over the ocean while sipping on a cocktail created by award-winning mixologist Kendie Williams. Williams masterfully blends homemade fruit purees, hot pepper sauce, Caribbean spices and hand-picked herbs from the resort’s garden to create cocktails you’ll quickly incorporate into your daily routine. (We loved the Spicy Island Turtle!) Stay for dinner — from Prime Rib to Nevisian Lemon Sticky Chicken to Vegan Paella, there’s something for everyone here.
EsQuilina, the property’s latest restaurant, serves both breakfast and dinner. The Mediterranean-inspired menu includes a generous crudo bar as well as entrees like Roasted Wahoo with Peas, Fennel and Smoked Ham and Porcini Charred Lamb Loin with Caponata, Root Vegetables and Natural Jus.
No day is complete without a nightcap, although at the resort’s famed Rum Bar, you’ll want to make multiple visits. The tempered space invites relaxation but it’s the rum tastings that have put this spot on many traveler’s top to-do list. While islanders pride themselves in making Nevis's best rum punch (multiple places claim the title), the Four Seasons Resort Nevis takes the rum-fixation up a notch with the production of their very own signature rum, Crowned Monkey Rum. Guests can opt to sip it straight up or in the bar’s legendary cocktail called “The Peak” which blends the spirit with vanilla sugar and cherry bitters before being smoked with cherry wood.
Indeed, in a world packed with stress, an escape to this quiet and perfect oasis feels like a much-needed respite to any and all who come.
Four Seasons Nevis is located at Pinney’s Beach, Charlestown, Nevis, West Indies. For more information, call +1-869-469-1111 or visit fourseasons.com/nevis.
Disclaimer: Some outlets may be temporarily closed due to local COVID-19 regulations.
