Before the second lockdown, I managed to get out to St Lucia to explore the volcanic island’s adventure side. During my time there, one of my bases was Marigot Bay.
This chic tucked-away hotel is a top spot if you’re looking to get away from it all, and for keen sailors, it is a must-visit with a marina included as part of the complex.
For those who merely feel like some pampering, the hotel also prides itself on its spa offering. There are several treatment rooms, a spacious gym, sauna, steam room and Jay the personal trainer who will run you through your paces on a neighbouring trekking peak.
A generously-sized swimming pool is at the heart of the resort, with towering wooden apartment blocks framing it amid lush jungle-like gardens.
I checked into one of the top floor suites, and these rooms have magnificent views of the pool below and the turquoise marina beyond.
The rooms at Marigot Bay are chic and roomy, with minimalist decor, four-poster beds and Aqua di Parma toiletries in the bathrooms.
Rooms can interconnect to form large apartments complete with fully-equipped kitchens and laundry facilities. Perfect for longterm stays.
Venturing back to the pool, this is a great space for families, groups of friends or couples who enjoy socialising.
There is a lively bar, where you can order an array of exotic drinks. Due to Covid-19 you can’t sit at the bar, but you’re allowed to saunter through the pool with a refreshing beverage to hand.
Be sure to order a bite to eat, and chefs will whip up some delicious sushi dishes in the open-air kitchen.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the delightful hummingbirds will keep you entertained while you’re waiting for your order.
Come nightfall, Marigot Bay comes alive with the twinkling lights peeping through the plants and reflecting on the tranquil marina beyond.
Due to current Covid-restrictions, the restaurants revolve each night.
During our stay, we had a varied spread of food, with local delicacies at The Grill at 14″61” and some mouthwatering pasta dishes at The Rum Cave.
For a special occasion, there is a treetop dining experience on offer.
Tucked away behind the spa there is an intimate dinner table elevated among the trees. I felt bad for the waiter who had to trek from the kitchen to our lofty perch.
Another standout experience on offer at Marigot Bay is a tasting session at The Rum Cave, where you can learn about the history and evolution of one of St Lucia’s biggest exports.
The rums are paired with goats cheese, crackers and chocolate so the tipples don’t go straight to your head!
On the activity front, there are morning yoga sessions to wake up the senses and regular treks to the nearby mountain with personal trainer, Jay.
The gym has a great spread of equipment and you can use the sauna and steam room at the spa afterwards.
Marigot Bay’s swimming pool is large enough to do laps in but if you fancy dipping your toe in the sea, take the little shuttle boat to the beach.
This stretch of sand is located on the other side of the marina and makes for a great place to park yourself for the day.
Try one of the coconuts prepared by a local with a splash of rum added if you fancy.
And have a shot on the rope swing, which involves climbing a lopsided palm tree and catapulting yourself into the shallow waters.
To explore farther afield, book a taxi with a Covid-19 certified driver to discover a wealth of activities.
During my 10-day trip on the island, I climbed Gros Piton (the larger of St Lucia’s two defining peaks), went ziplining, took a dip at the Sulphur Springs (the world’s only drive-in volcano), tried jungle biking, diving, and day sailing.
Marigot Bay certainly makes for a great retreat after adventure-packed days.
After three nights at this spot, we felt well-rested.
The plan is to sail back one day. For those who do sail, Marigot Bay is the marina you land into after the Atlantic crossing as part of the annual Arc Rally.
The atmosphere when the boats come in is said to be wonderful with a real buzz.
I can imagine that Marigot Bay really caters to occasions like this.
Even though it was fairly quiet during our visit due to the pandemic, there was a fun atmosphere and I can imagine the venue really comes alive when its busy, with a selection of bars and plenty of garden space for entertaining.
I look forward to returning when the pandemic is at bay. After an Atlantic crossing a cocktail at that awsome pool bar would be a dream come true!!
HOW TO BOOK
Cabibtours currently has some great offers running for Marigot Bay. Rates are as follows:
Christmas: 7 nights from £5,259 per person sharing a Resort View Junior Suite with breakfast. Stay 20-27 Dec 2020
January 2021: (Based on 11 Jan departure) 7 nights from £2,449 per person sharing a Resort View Junior Suite with breakfast. OFFER: Stay 7 Pay 6 + Added Extras + Complimentary Transfers. STAY: 06 Jan-5 Feb 2021.
For more information visit www.caribtours.co.uk or call 020 7751 0660 to speak with a travel expert.
Prices are based on two adults sharing and includes return scheduled flights, accommodation where stated, transfers and the use of a UK airport lounge on departure in London. Hotel offers are subject to availability and stay and blackout dates apply. Displayed prices and special offers are correct at time of sending but are subject to change. Offers are applicable to new bookings and quotes only. All Caribtours flight-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the ATOL scheme.
