St. Lucia can almost be too beautiful, particularly when it comes to the island’s south-west corner. Here the hills are draped with impossibly dense rainforest, the flowers seem bigger and brighter than anywhere else and the views of the Caribbean Sea are perfectly framed by Les Pitons mountains. Indeed, it is particularly hard to focus upon anything but the panoramic vistas and, for once, the hotels have little choice but to take on supporting roles.

Luckily, our featured property, Ladera, is well aware of what takes centre stage around here and chooses to complement, rather
than compete with, its show-stopping surroundings. It takes on the guise of a rustic hillside hideaway and is a romantic base from which to explore the nearby volcano, waterfalls and crystal clear waters. The scent of adventure is subtle, yet unmistakable around here and, you never know, you may even be inspired to try your hand at scuba-diving.

You may prefer to spend your time in the north of the island, however, and simply take a day trip to the scenic splendours down south. Although the area is a tad less exotic, proximity to Rodney Bay, Marigot Bay and the dutyfree shops of Castries, not to mention the island’s only 18-hole golf course, means it still has enormous appeal. The fact that its first-class resorts vary from the low-key East Winds Inn to the high-profile LeSport mean everyone can find something to suit.

BRITISH AIRWAYS FLY TWICE WEEKLY TO ST. LUCIA FROM GATWICK. THE FLYING TIME IS 10 HOURS 45 MINUTES WITH ONE STOP, WHILST HONEYMOONERS WILL BE PLEASED TO KNOW THERE ARE ALWAYS DEPARTURES ON SUNDAYS!