Why St Kitts and Nevis should be your next Caribbean escape

Rainforest hideaways, rum tastings and responsible luxury: here's everything I discovered on my trip to the lush, luxurious twin islands of St Kitts and Nevis.

I went on an incredible trip hosted by the lovely folks at the St Kitts Tourist Board, and found two islands quietly stealing the Caribbean spotlight. Sure, they have the essentials nailed: turquoise seas, golden beaches, swaying palms and more rum punch than is strictly necessary. But what really sets them apart is how they're redefining luxury. It's slower, more soulful. Authentic and unfussy, yet totally spoiling.

Maybe it's the rainforest-covered hills, or the stories layered into old sugar estates. Maybe it's the people: warm, generous, fiercely proud of their island home. Whatever it is, St Kitts and Nevis will leave you thinking about them long after you've returned home.

Even better? Some of my favourite moments were also the most local: breakfast at an organic farm high on the slopes of Mount Liamuiga, and a rainforest hotel with its own organic farm on site.

Whether you're planning your next escape or just here for the travel inspo, here's my insider's guide to St Kitts and Nevis: a twin-island destination that offers barefoot luxury, bags of character, and a heart as warm as the sunshine.

Why St Kitts and Nevis?

Because you want:

• Warm, clear waters and uncrowded beaches
• Rainforest breakfasts and boutique hotels
• Farm-to-table dining and fascinating history
• A short hop between the two islands, which makes twin-centring easy
• Hotels and farms that grow their own food, with no compromise on comfort, or fun
• And of course, my new favourite drink: rum and Ting

These are two of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets. Away from the main cruise port and larger resorts, you'll find lush green mountains, winding coastal roads and buzzing local joints.

And because they're small (you can drive across either island in under an hour), they're perfect for slow, immersive travel. Twin-centre holidays, multi-generational escapes, honeymoons or solo recharge trips: they all work here.

Where to stay in St Kitts and Nevis

Belle Mont Sanctuary, St Kitts

This was love at first rope bridge. Watch my Belle Mont Sanctuary reel

Belle Mont Sanctuary feels like Robinson Crusoe gone five-star: a luxurious hillside retreat tucked into the lush rainforest canopy of St Kitts. Private treehouse-style villas sit high among the trees, connected by rope bridges and winding pathways that give the whole place the feeling of a secret rainforest village.

Everything is designed with intention, from the locally sourced decor to the on-site organic farm. The real showstopper, though? The outdoor bathrooms. Mine had a freestanding tub and a rainfall shower open to the elements. Showering under the trees, with the breeze drifting in and the sounds of the rainforest all around, was a wonderful experience.

The larger villas, like the four-bedroom Farmhouse, are perfect for multi-generational holidays or destination weddings, and the layout of the resort means guests can enjoy their own space while still being connected.

Thinking about a destination wedding? Belle Mont Sanctuary offers one of the most breathtaking wedding settings in St Kitts. Private villas, panoramic views, tropical gardens, and space to celebrate in style: it's intimate, luxurious and totally unforgettable. Ask me about exclusive-use options, wedding packages and honeymoon stays.

Perfect for: honeymoons, weddings, multi-generational escapes and nature-loving families.

Park Hyatt St Kitts

Set on a golden beach facing Nevis, this is tropical luxury done with style. The entrance, complete with a koi-filled water feature, sets the tone. My room had a freestanding tub (I may or may not have a bathroom obsession) and Le Labo Bergamote 22 products. It's all in the details!

• Suites with private pools and wrap-around balconies
• Two pools, beachfront hammocks and golf buggies to ferry you around
• Great for both couples and families

For the next level of luxury, the Presidential Villa has a private pool, expansive sea views and ultimate seclusion.

Four Seasons Nevis

Watch my Four Seasons Nevis reel

After a short, 15-minute boat ride from St Kitts, we arrived at the Four Seasons Nevis, and wow. From the moment I stepped off the boat, it felt like stepping into a glossy Caribbean photoshoot. Powdery white sands, swaying palms, Mount Nevis brooding beautifully in the background, and that signature Four Seasons style that somehow manages to be both relaxed and ridiculously polished.

The main resort offers stunning suites and beautifully appointed rooms, but if you really want to push the boat out, look at their villa and residence rentals.

These private homes are dotted across the hillside and range from one to seven bedrooms, each with its own personality. Most come with private pools, tropical gardens, breezy kitchens and wide verandas overlooking the sea or mountains. It has the feeling of a private Caribbean village designed by Architectural Digest: effortlessly elegant, full of island charm, and surprisingly homey.

You get all the benefits of the resort (golf, spa, restaurants, room service), but with the space and privacy of your own little corner of Nevis. Ideal for families, groups, or anyone craving that "this is my home now" holiday energy.

A bonus for golf lovers: the Robert Trent Jones II-designed course has stunning ocean views, and cheeky green vervet monkeys that occasionally pop up to watch you tee off.

Montpelier Plantation & Beach, Nevis

Built on the site where Lord Nelson married Fanny Nisbet, this elegant hideaway oozes old-world charm with a modern twist. There are no TVs in the rooms, encouraging you to unplug and unwind (don't worry, there is wifi).

• Only 18 rooms, so you get to know everyone (including Muffin the GM)
• Private villa options like the Tamarind Villa, with its own pool
• Amazing rum punch and fine dining in the Sugar Mill restaurant

It feels like a private members' club meets country house retreat, with monkeys in the trees.

Where to eat and drink

Sunshine's Bar & Grill, Nevis

Bright, beachy and bursting with good vibes, it's famous for its Killer Bee cocktail (it lives up to the name). A must-do for the atmosphere alone.

The Spice Mill, St Kitts

Beachfront dining with twinkly lights and sensational food. Great for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

Marshall's, St Kitts

Upscale local dining in a lovely tropical garden setting. I highly recommend the lobster!

Boozies on the Beach, Frigate Bay

Fun, casual and totally local. Expect cold beers, delicious food, and feet in the sand.

Top things to do in St Kitts and Nevis

Liamuiga Natural Farm

Tiem is a visionary farmer tucked high in the rainforest, growing organic crops on the slopes of Mount Liamuiga. His farm-to-table breakfasts and home-grown coffee are unforgettable, and there's even an off-grid cabin you can rent. Watch my Liamuiga Farm reel

Rum tasting at Old Road Rum

The oldest distillery on the island, recently brought back to life. You'll learn all about the island's rum history while sipping excellent small-batch blends. As I sat there with my rum cocktail, I couldn't help thinking what a beautiful wedding venue it would make.

Brimstone Hill Fortress

A UNESCO site with sweeping views of the island. Walking the same stone paths enslaved Africans were forced to build and climb was deeply humbling. It's an important part of St Kitts' history, powerfully and respectfully told by our local guide.

Batik at Caribelle

Make your own batik to take home (mine now hangs proudly in my office). The shop is full of gorgeous locally made gifts, too.

Sunset snorkelling cruise

A must. We sailed into a secluded cove as reggae played, rum punch flowed and the sun melted into the sea.

Frigate Bay

St Kitts' main nightlife area, but don't worry, it's all very chilled. Local bars and beach restaurants line the shore, with the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other: the best of both worlds.

Ready to fall in love with St Kitts and Nevis?

Ask me for the perfect twin-island itinerary, complete with hotel picks, experiences and flight suggestions.