MDE Destinations: Four Seasons Nevis, West Indies

As the holiday season is vast approaching, a little tropical sunshine is a welcomed thing! Thanks to the Four Seasons in Nevis, I had the opportunity to get a little vitamin “sea” in one of the most beautiful places on earth! In the 18th century, the island was known for being a highly productive hub of sugar plantations for the British. With settings ranging from the beautiful remains of a historic sugar mill to the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, Nevis is the key to an unbelievable event.

Nevis is located in the Caribbean Sea about one-third of the way from Puerto Rico,  to Trinidad and Tobago. English is the spoken island on the island. It covers an area of 269 square kilometers. A few charming things about the island laws; there cannot be a building taller than a coconut tree, using the “F” word can get you arrested (ask 50 cent who was there, swore on stage, and was consequently thrown in jail!), and they kindly request that the only camouflage attire on the island remain with their armed forces (so leave your trendy camo at home for this vacation).

Reimagined and revitalized, but rooted in history and heritage, the luxurious beachfront oasis offers everything you could want in a getaway. There are seven restaurants within the resort, all offering a little taste of the island. Go sunning on Pinney’s Beach or at any of the three pools (they just opened the mail pool and it is STUNNING!). The striking new infinity-edge pool features relaxing loungers and a fire pit! Four fully equipped luxury cabanas are available with comfortable furnishings, power and wi-fi connectivity. If pool lounging is not for you, there is an 18 hole Robert Trent Jones II golf course offering breathtaking views from the volcano to the Caribbean Sea. And this is also a great place to see the island’s other inhabitants; the Green Ververt Monkeys!

For those looking to take their pool experience to the next level, the resort’s recent pool resurfacing project has truly elevated the space. The pristine new finish enhances the stunning beauty of the area, ensuring that every dip is a refreshing escape. With the addition of the mail pool, guests can now enjoy a more luxurious experience while lounging in style, surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of the island. This thoughtful renovation not only improves aesthetics but also adds to the overall longevity and durability of the resort’s pools.

There are three beautiful places to host events within the hotel: Beachside, Sugar Mill Ruin or the 18th hole Lawn – and the indoor ballroom option is just as lovely.

My husband Collin and I flew from Chicago to San Juan, Puerto Rico on the way there, and then caught an island hopper from PR to St. Kitt’s. After that we hopped a short bus, and then a boat to get to Nevis. It sounds like a lot, and it was to an extent. I would maybe suggest the Miami to St. Kitt’s flight versus the one we took (no island hopper in that equation, and we took this option on the way home, much easier!). But let me just tell you how worth the voyage it all is. This island is untouched by time and stunning. And the Four Seasons provides the most luxurious accommodations among some of the most beautiful surroundings I have ever experienced. The sunsets are different every night and spectacular. The staff is incredibly accommodating and so charming. There are a variety of ways to enjoy the hotel from rooms to suites and there are also 50 villas available to rent, ranging from small to large.

The larger options are ideal for parties up to 75 and could be the most perfect location for a wedding. If the beach is more your style that is available also. The team at the hotel can accommodate intimate weddings of 25 and large weddings up to 200 and with Island activities including horseback riding, catamaran rentals and hiking this island offers something for everyone. Only 11,000 or so people live on the island. It has no chain restaurants and no fast food – so no Starbuck’s in sight but let me tell you – you will not miss it. The coffee is amazing! I had to give up dairy last year and with that transitioned to coconut milk, and the cappuccino that were made for me at breakfast were the stuff dreams were made of!

One of my favorite perks was hands down the late night room service. Sometimes you just need a burger at midnight and I really love that, LOL. We had so much fun wandering down the beach to the local bar (try the killer bee it is quite the cocktail!), and sometimes late night food is needed.

But as far as menu goes, the fresh catch of the day is the most incredible option for those who like me, find fishes to be delicious! Island specialties do include a mix of flavors from Caribbean to Indian which results in dishes with some island kick! And, don’t forget the jerk, LOL. I enjoyed every meal that I had both on the resort and offsite as well. Check out the Monkey Rum Bar. Boasting the finest rums and spirits from around the world, pull up to the bar for pre-dinner cocktails, late night happy hours, or moonlit nightcaps. The lobby has a kick ass band playing which is so fun as well! For all of their restaurant options, click here!

There are some truly charming properties on the island that are much smaller and offer great options for additional locations to host events during a wedding weekend. One of my favorites was the Golden Rock Inn, which is a former sugar plantation (one of the coldest on the island!). Dating back to the early 1800’s, Golden Rock sits on a hundred acres stretching up the verdant slopes of Nevis Peak. With 11 unique rooms and a gorgeous landscape it is an island escape that even Anna Wintour takes advantage of each year (she stays in the old mill suite!). For more on this super chic location, click here 

At Four Seasons, you enjoy a unique vantage point from which to explore the sights, sounds and experiences around you and it is an experience that you will truly love. I know that I did! I cannot thank them enough for their hospitality! And to Collin Pierson Photography for the gorgeous images!