What is it like to experience the view from this porch? To hear the rain; a melody of water bouncing-off the palm tree fronds and the sound it creates as it hits a tin-roofed building nearby. To feel a slight breeze as it cools your skin from the low-humidity that covers the air. To see the twin Piton mountains ahead and knowing you are not too far to touch the Caribbean sea.
Here is a place that doesn’t need a beachfront to be stunning and warm. A working cocoa plantation; a place genuine in Caribbean hospitality. A family owned place blending heritage with modernism, and all with minimal environmental impact. It is the only true organic estate on the island of St. Lucia with most of the produce being harvested on the plantation. And it is the only resort on the island that engages in true eco-building practices and natural preservation.
Welcome to Fond Doux Holiday Plantation Estates – one of the five best plantation retreats in the world!
I have arranged many romantic vacations to this lovely island and once I discovered a remarkable estate existed, my first thought was to share its story and all its accolades of sustainable tourism, offering their guests not only an enjoyable resort stay but a true plantation experience – able to actively engage in the daily running of this cocoa plantation that includes harvesting, drying and grinding the cocoa, and the Cocoa Dancing and Cocoa Rolling. A new-found appreciation will always be discovered!
In regard to having a romantic vacation at Fond Doux Holiday Plantation, a lovely destination wedding was posted by Style Me Pretty. It affirmed that this charming estate is the perfect place for love, enchantment and celebration. Respectfully, the estate is perfect to cater to those seeking to elope. Eloping? Does anyone choose to elope anymore? I do hope that the hopeless romantic-at-heart still truly exist in todays modern world.
A tropical rainforest paradise - a peaceful hideaway - rustic - naturally wonderful are a few descriptives that headline their hotel reviews. If you are a former guest of the estate, you would understand. If you have not visited yet — take a chance on Fond Doux Holiday Plantation and savor the cocoa.
Advice For Those Traveling Now?
St. Lucia’s natural wonders are matched by the cultural magnetism of quaint fishing villages, flavorful Caribbean cuisine, and exciting traditional events. The capital of Castries on the island’s northwestern tip is a hot spot of tourist activity, with Victorian buildings, open-air markets, and an entertaining nightlife. There are excellent facilities for most leisure and sporting interests, including yachting, tennis, and golf. Explorers find banana plantations (and cocoa plantations), St Lucia’s famed La Soufrière volcano, aged fortresses, and warm, friendly natives proud of their rich heritage.
Plenty of great places to dine. A fantastic notable is The Edge Restaurant, located inside at Harmony Suites Hotel. You’ll discover eclectic European and Caribbean fusion cuisine, trademarked as “Eurobbean” – always tasty and on-point. Also try their sister restaurant, Fire Grill Restaurant & Lounge (If you visit, give Chef Bobo my regards!)
Like all Caribbean islands, this is a year-round destination, with some seasons that are busier than others. The most popular time to visit is December through May, when the weather is at its best and the majority of activities are scheduled. The most relaxing time, however, is really from April-November, when the crowds are smallest.
For assistance in booking your stay contact ‘IMINA Travel & Events. Happy Travels!
Photos courtesy of: Plantation porch, introduction video, cottage, and cocoa pods, Fond Doux Estates // Wedding gown, Nyra Lang Photography on behalf of Style Me Pretty.com
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Fun! I honeymooned in St Lucia. We stayed at Ladera. This post brought back fun memories!
Ladera Resort is gorgeous!! Great choice
Thank you for sharing a comment! — Margie at ‘IMINA Travel and Events.