What does paradise look like? If it includes white sandy beaches, unlimited Pina Coladas and lobster on tap then let me tell you, it exists.
Petit St Vincent (PSV to regulars) is a private island at the Southernmost tip of the Grenadines that sums up the very essence of a luxury holiday cliche in every way but one…it's all inclusive. Dismiss the image of Magaluf nights and Benidorm hotels for this is when inclusivity spells out relaxation without worry. From the moment one steps ashore (after a 50-minute seaplane from Barbados and a 15-minute speedboat from Union Island) and met with a cocktail and a private taxi tour of the 115-acre estate, the habit of carrying credit cards isn’t the only aspect of real life that one is quick to forget.
The Hotel
Where else in the world do you find a natural coral reef, a 4,000 bottle wine cellar and a diving school run by Jacques Cousteau’s son, Jean-Michel? Simply put, the resort is a little eccentric. Case in point: the two restaurants. Neither the hilltop lodge with its white tablecloths and dramatic views nor the beachside eatery designed for sinking one's toes into the sun-warmed sand, will ever be able to cater for the amount of tables they lay for considering how intimate they keep the guest numbers. And, yet, the hotel goes above and beyond in every aspect. Lobster for breakfast, lunch and dinner? Of course. A lethal rum tasting upon request? Why not.
One could walk around the island in just over an hour, but there are bikes everywhere so guests never have to walk more than a few steps and mini mokes (AKA Uber for the PSV class) ready to take you further than you’re willing to cycle. There’s a hiking trail across the island, but more likely than not guests can be found hanging in beachside nooks, at the yoga pavilion (where classes are held daily on request) or the Balinese spa.
Jetting off from PSV is perhaps as impressive as the hotel itself. Day trips out to the shooting locations of Pirates of the Caribbean reveal snorkelling spots beloved by turtles. For the actively minded there’s the aforementioned dive-centre, kayaking, deep sea fishing and sailing on offer too.
The Rooms
With just 22 cottages, many with private beaches, one rarely sees another guest. There are hideaway cabins for couples on romantic getaways and larger villas for families. Each cottage is gifted privacy and panoramic views, which may seem naturally mutually exclusive, but given the size of the island and the amount of space gifted to each guest, it really is possible. The interiors are decorated in natural stone and neutral fabrics, which are palette cleansing against the azure sea and bright blue skies. Meanwhile, outside lies private hammocks, sun beds and a table comfortable enough for guests.
Rates at Petit St. Vincent start from $1,200 (£870) per room per night, based on two sharing a one-bedroom cottage in low season. Includes three meals daily, all non-alcoholic beverages, the use of non-motorized water sports and all facilities at the resort. For further information, visit www.petitstvincent.com | +1 (954) 963 7401
Insider Tip
Get to know the flag system, because this is the route to having Dacquri’s served to your hammock without lifting a muscle.
The Lowdown
Rates at Petit St. Vincent start from $1,200 (£870) per room per night, based on two sharing a one-bedroom cottage in low season. Includes three meals daily, all non-alcoholic beverages, the use of non-motorized water sports and all facilities at the resort. For further information, visit Petitstvincent.com or call +1 (954) 963 7401.
N.B. Wifi is only available in the main restaurants and lobby area and there are no televisions or wifi in the cottages.
Grazia flew to Petit Saint Vincent with Virgin Atlantic (Virginatlantic.com).