Life in the Caribbean seems to be just a bit simpler and quieter than the ones we lead in the States. Maybe it’s those warm breezes and sparkling turquoise waters, or the easy-going vibe the locals give off, but no matter which island you’re on, you’re sure to feel relaxed. And stateside, we can’t help but be envious of the tranquil destination that is the Caribbean.
When it comes understanding the importance of location, serenity and luxury, Kittitian Hill's new development in the West Indies definitely gets it right with a fine balance of all the elements. Set against 400 acres of organic farmland on St. Kitts, the community’s philosophy is based on culture and sustainability in order to nourish guest’s spirits during each stay while providing a true sense of destination.
In 2015, additional developments will be unveiled on the grounds including Mango Walk Spa, new restaurants and The Village which will offer art galleries, artisan workshops, a film school and an open-air cinema. To get here, guests can utilize Kittitian Hill’s private grass air strip, which also means the convenience of being able to hop on your jet to explore nearby islands such as St. Barths and St. Martin only 15 minutes away.
Currently, the community offers accommodations in 84 one-bedroom guesthouses and seven four-bedroom farmhouses at Belle Mont Farm, a hotel on site. Designed by world-renowned architect Bill Bensley and unveiled this month, Belle Mont Farms is the first chapter of Kittitian Hill’s $600 million hospitality and real estate destination accommodations.
Built to mirror the architecture of traditional chattel houses (small moveable wooden houses), guesthouses include open verandas, al fresco bathrooms, and 100-foot infinity pools overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Up to eight guests can comfortably fit in the four-bedroom farmhouses which come with private attendants and a 24-hour, on-call concierges.
Since Kittitian Hill is on a 400-acre organic farm, you can be sure there’s plenty of tasty and good-for-you food to try. Using foraged fare from the farm, forest, land and sea, the Hill’s resident chefs create culinary experiences unique to their surroundings. At The Kitchen, try farm-to-table delights or venture the sidewalks of The Village for authentic street food (open at the end of 2015). Keeping all things sustainable, the resort also works with artisan suppliers, neighboring farms and works to reduce the amount of food flown in from outside the island.
Around the area, guests can partake in activities such as golf, walks and treks, or relax at Mango Walk Spa. Designed by Ian Woosnam, Kittitian Hill’s golf course, Irie Fields offers views across the sea to the islands of St. Barths and St. Martin from every hole of this par 71, 18-hole course. The spa is surrounded by a forest of ancient giant mango trees; treatments are indigenous-inspired and of course, all organic. One of the most charming features of the facility is the tree houses where guests can sit, meditate or stretch during a yoga class.
Sustainable and authentic, this island community has rest and relaxation written all over it. With the island’s tropical climate and direct flights from around the world, and all of Kittitian Hill’s offerings, St. Kitts is definitely on our radar for 2015. Reservations are now being accepted for stays starting on December 12, 2014. Winter 2014/2015 rates at Belle Mont Farm start at $2,250 per night based on double occupancy, and includes arrival/departure experience via St. Kitts’ new YU Lounge private jet terminal; daily breakfast, lunch and dinner (alcohol included); unlimited golf at Irie Fields for two with caddie service; and spa treatments (daily credit of $200 per couple).
