• 1. Where to Stay
• 2. Where to Eat
• 3. What to Do
• 4. Insider’s Tip
• 5. An Oddball Day

The Jalousie Plantation sits on a secluded 320-acre estate between the soaring Pitons.   (Photo: Courtesy of Viceroy Hotel Group)

Splurge on a newly renovated villa at the Jalousie Plantation (from $300), a 320-acre estate with thatched-roof cabanas and a water-sports center. All the villas are lavishly outfitted with iPod docks, free Wi-Fi, a private plunge pool, and a personal butler.

Climb into a tree house at Crystals (from $200), a romantic hillside retreat just minutes from the town of Soufriere, where six cottages offer kitchens, mountain and sea views, and bedrooms featuring exotic furnishings from around the world. Personal touches include a bottle of Champagne and fresh fruit on arrival, free shuttles to the beach, and breakfast brought to your door.

Step off the beaten path at the ecominded Balenbouche Estate (from $110), where the owner and her two daughters grow organic mangoes, papayas, avocados, and baby greens, and raise about a dozen beef cattle along with horses, cats, and dogs. Of the four rustic cottages on this relatively remote spot, the sun-filled Almond, with its natural stone outdoor shower, is a guest favorite. For a closer look at life here, ask about volunteer opportunities; between August and November, skilled professionals are offered the chance to help out in exchange for room and board.

Published on Jan 12, 2012 as a web exclusive.