Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort sits on the site of an 18th-century sugar plantation on the west coast of St Lucia, gazing out over the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pitons and the azure waters of the Caribbean.

Hidden in tropical gardens dotted with mango, banana and papaya trees, Sugar Beach's elegant rooms, cottages, villas and beachfront bungalows merge 18th-century plantation style with contemporary flair, with cool white interiors with four-poster beds and bathrooms with Victorian clawfoot baths. Each offers a private plunge pool (or two) and personalised butler service as well as incredible views over the Caribbean and the Pitons.

Accommodation options range from the Sugar Mill Rooms at the heart of the resort, which have private walled gardens and look out over lily ponds and the ruins of the 18th-century sugar mill, some with a roof terrace overlooking the ocean, to lavish four-bedroom Residences and the two Beachfront Collection homes which sit right on the beach and have a 'floating' entrance, a large infinity pool and 180-degree views.

Enjoy delicious Caribbean cuisine by candlelight at the hotel's signature restaurant, the Great Room, including the catch of the day, or head to the Bayside restaurant on the beach, and indulge in afternoon tea at the Palm Court Lounge. 

After indulging in succulent scallops and delicious desserts, sip a cocktail beneath the almond trees at the Bayside bar or let the professional ‘rummelier’ at Cane Bar pick out the best rum for you.

After a day's adventures, treat yourself to some first-class pampering in the spa, which is set around a cascading stream in the rainforest. Signature treatments make the most of natural ingredients from the volcanic springs and cocoa plantations. Unwind with yoga or pilates, and cool off in the irresistible infinity pool, overlooking the Pitons. For something more active there are fitness classes and two floodlit tennis courts. 

Enjoy a leisurely sailing trip round the coast, or go snorkelling or kayaking around the coral reefs. Divers can explore wrecks and come face to face with hawksbill and green turtles. Keen walkers should head out on an organised hike to the bustling Soufriere market, where freshly caught fish, tropical fruit, herbs, spices and handicrafts are bought and sold. In the fishing villages, dine out in true Caribbean style on freshly-caught octopus, conch, tuna and lobster.

To get the adrenaline pumping, go ziplining through the rainforest, while St. Lucia’s most unique attraction is the world's only drive-in volcano, where you can bathe in the bubbling mud pools that are rich in minerals and great for the skin.

There are also plenty of activities that are ideal for children, from glass-bottom boat trips to cocoa plantation and volcano tours and traditional arts and crafts.