Hermitage Bay's own little legend goes that the perfect Antigua bay in which it rests was discovered only recently, having spent over 100 years vanished and unknown after disappearing into private ownership around the end of the 19th century.

The resort itself is formed of only 25 individual luxury cottage suites, nestled in the sculpted tropical gardens of the bay, creating a retreat of uncommon peace and beauty. The staff are discreet and professional; available to your every need but well aware that theirs is a resort best suited to enjoying in peace with a loved one.

The facilities

Hermitage Bay's best feature is almost certainly its long, white sand private beach, on which guests can swim in safety or take out a sailing boat, instructors always on hand. The hotel also boasts its own spa and relaxation therapists. For those wanting to explore, Antigua's colourful capital St. John's is 30 minutes drive away. Closer still is the Jolly Harbour marina complex of shops, restaurants, tennis and golf.

The rooms

Each of the cottage suites are enormously spacious, clean and elegantly designed, with spectacular views of the beach and equipped with widescreen TVs, DVD players and iPod docking stations. The Hillside cottages, further up from the sea, all have their own plunge pool and large sunbathing deck. Happily, all of the cottages are air-conditioned and have ceiling fans.