St Kitts Sponsored feature

ST. KITTS The A hentic Caribbean

named after Saint Christopher, the patron saint of travellers, St. Kitts is as welcoming as its informal name suggests.

At just 68 square miles it’s a small but perfectly-formed hidden gem in the northern Leeward Islands that offers an authentic Caribbean experience without the crowds.

Known for its cloud-shrouded mountains and rich heritage, St. Kitts’ appeal is beyond its secluded beaches.

Those on the weekly British Airways service from LondonGatwick to Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw International Airport, close to the capital city of Basseterre, can touchdown in style at the airport’s Kayanjet Lounge: here they can relax on the outdoor terrace and sample some island food while staff deal with their luggage and entry formalities.

SWeet SpotS

Iconic heritage sites await history buffs and those looking to delve into St. Kitts’ culture. The big guns are out at Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose imposing citadel overlooks the ocean. Marvel at demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship at Caribelle Batik while taking a tour of historic Romney Manor. Then climb aboard the ‘Sugar Train’, originally built to transport sugar cane, for a gentle two-hour ride while being serenaded by a choir in colourful Kittitian dress. Take a stroll around historic Basseterre on a walking tour and let storytellings transport you through history.

KicK bacK

Fresh-off-the-boat seafood and local produce are on offer across the island. Kick back on the black-sand beach in Dieppe Bay at Arthur’s restaurant, which offers a seato-table dining feast. A holistic health experience is served up at Ital Creations at Fari Organic Farm, pairing vegan and veggie food with a yoga session among mango and pineapple trees.

Bars at the hotspot ‘The Strip’ in Frigate Bay are alive with local brews, refreshing cocktails and mellow Caribbean sounds. And no Caribbean visit would be complete without sampling the local rums of Brinley, HiBiscus and Belmont. Cheers! some island food while staff deal

storytellings transport you

St. Kitts is dominated by the dormant Mount Liamuiga volcano, home to a crater lake, green vervet monkeys and rainforest crisscrossed with hiking trails

iSland giftS

Pick up handmade, hand-painted wooden accessories from Denica, who draws on her Caribbean heritage when crafting bold designs for DenicaConnorDezignz. Or check out Caroline Joseph, who makes jewellery from Lionfi sh spines, sea glass, palm husk and volcanic lava rock. Take home some Mother Becky Bush Tea made with local ingredients and infused with Kittitian tradition.

Set the Scenery

Picture this: you’re standing high above the lush St. Kitts rainforest, overlooking the Wingfield River, about to take the flight of your life. Gliding 250ft above the treetops at 80km per hour, a Sky Safari Tours zip line gives a bird’s eye view of the entire Wingfield Estate and the island beyond.

Equally spectacular panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea and neighbouring islands are the reward for those who hike up to Mount Liamuiga’s rim. Anyone feeling brave enough can descend via a rope into the crater itself for a refreshing dip in the lake below.

Bird fanciers will be in their element spotting the Brown Pelican, Caribbean Elaenia and Grey Kingbird – and have a high chance of recording an undocumented species! If that’s too sedate, they can leave others in their dust on an off-roading quad bike tour.

life’S a beach

Beach huts serving up local food? Check! Exhilarating watersports? Check! Secluded picnic spots? Check! Whatever the vibe, St. Kitts’ beaches have it covered.

Zoom around on a jet ski or chow down on fresh lobster, fish and conch at lively South Frigate Bay or South Friars Bay.

The pristine waters, coconut trees and white sands of Banana Bay and Sandy Bank are the perfect retreat for couples looking for peace and quiet, with the scenic route along the way setting the mood for romance.

refreSh your mind, body and Spirit

The rejuvenating powers of the island’s native flowers, spices and volcanic stone await you. Refresh your mind and body with exclusive treatments, yoga and meditation sessions. Be pampered at St. Kitts Marriott Resort or the new Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour, which both have full-service spa facilities.

Experience a rub down like no other with local lava rock during a Firestone Massage at the Park Hyatt, Sugar Mill Spa & Sanctuary or try the unique Bamboo Signature Massage at Marriott’s Emerald Mist Spa – or do both and start and finish your trip with a St. Kitts glow!

Smooth Sailing

Your catamaran is bobbing along on the waves, the sea breeze is ruffling your hair and the verdant peaks of Nevis are slowly materialising on the horizon. After you drop anchor in a secluded cove, a beach barbecue awaits – with some local rum to wash it down. Then snorkel in the clear blue turquoise waters of St. Kitts.

You can also take the six-minute water taxi over to Nevis or join a sunset cocktail cruise?

Your glasses will be kept topped up as you enjoy the magical mixing of soft pinks, purples, reds and yellows as the sun drops into the ocean.

Observant sailers might even catch a glimpse of the famous green flash as the sun dips below the horizon.