Situated on the southern tip of St Lucia, the luxurious Ladera Resort looks out over stunning views of Caribbean Sea and Piton Mountains. The hotel draws in the ambience of the natural world that surrounds it, creating a calm and relaxing hideaway. However, those with an itch to explore will be pleased to know the resort runs a beach shuttle service, rainforest walks are available and the port town of Soufriere isn't far away.

The facilities

In keeping with its tranquil surroundings the Ladera Resort offers a wide range of treatments, massages and sulphur mineral baths at Ti Kai Pose Spa, perfect for a relaxing evening. For a kick-start to the day, enjoy a morning's workout in the Garden Gym or sign up for scuba diving, snorkelling, whale/dolphin watching and helicopter tours (all organised by the resort).

The rooms

Ladera Resort has nine villas and twenty-three suites, all with local artwork on the walls, free WI-FI and private plunge pools. What makes these villas and suites so spectacular is their design; each has an open fourth wall which allows the most breath-taking views of the Piton Mountains and Caribbean Sea. If you really want to splash out, try the two-bedroom villa which comes with its own heated pool and waterfall.