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Travel Report
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club A Sweet Stay on the Sea ©Nisbet Plantation Beach Resort
T
he tiny island of Nevis was once best known for its numerous sugar plantations, but only one was built on the sea – the Nisbet Plantation. One of its claims to fame is that British Navy Captain Horatio Nelson met his wife Frances “Fanny” Nisbet there. Today, the property still sprawls over 30 acres of lush, palm-lined grounds, and still encourages romance by hosting stunning beach weddings. On first approach, the majestic stone arch and the grandly restored mansion, The Great House, might give you the impression this is going to be a pretentious place. But once inside the cheery lemon-colored reception cottage you’ll immediately realize that the vibe there is purely country comfort warm. I instantly adored my spacious suite, which was more of a cottage. All 36 rooms are built cottage-style, and mine was on a perfect corner for privacy with an unfettered view of the sea and the mountains. But though it appeared I had everything I could possibly need for a stellar stay – a gorgeous bathroom, lovely living area and comfortable king-size bed – something
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was missing. There was no television! But the soundtrack of the waves and the spectacular view was entertainment enough. I found it difficult to leave my massive deck, but those aqua waves were beckoning, and breakfast at beachfront restaurant Coconuts seemed required to fuel me for a day of relaxation. It was scrumptious. Lunch at surfside Sea Breeze was just as satisfying. Then, after meandering the half-mile of beautiful white sand beach, high tea on the Great House patio also hit the spot. Everywhere I went, staff and guests alike greeted me like a long-lost friend. Rare. That night, formal dinner was exquisite as well. And once again, though the dining room is full of antiques and gorgeous décor, the atmosphere is never stuffy – and that’s thanks to the staff, like maître d extraordinaire Patterson Fleming, whose guests have brought him hundreds of ties over the years. He always remembers who gave him what, and wears the right one to welcome them back on their first night of return. Awesome. Visit: www.nisbetplantation.com SUSAN CAMPBELL Twitter: @suectravel