Your Yorkshire Wedding - Jan/Feb 2018 (Issue 28)

A s a child I read a book about a girl from the Caribbean island of St Lucia; the crystal blue waters and green mountains were etched in my brain from a young age, but nothing could prepare me for the beauty of it in real life. While the island boasts picture-perfect beaches, its other natural assets are just as spectacular; the volcanic Piton mountains, magnificent natural harbours and thick blanket of lush rainforest make for some awe-inspiring viewpoints. Match this with some of the friendliest and most fun-loving people I’ve met and it’s easy to see why St Lucia is such a honeymoon hotspot. After a nine-hour flight we touched down at Hewanorra International Airport where a resort representative greeted us and showed us to our transfer – a helicopter! To say I was a little anxious would be an understatement, but once we were up in the air the stunning views that greeted us were so worth it. Our pilot for the 10-minute journey pointed out the incredible beaches, forests and towns below us and I was soon glad I hadn’t opted for the long road transfer – what a way to arrive! STEALING TIME Upon arrival, it’s impossible not to be struck by the seven acres of vibrant tropical gardens and two-mile stretch of white sandy beach on its doorstep, but this is just the beginning of what this boutique, all-inclusive resort has to offer. The 100-bedroom haven started life as a home for the Barnard family who still own and operate it to this day and this family connection was evident in every aspect of my stay. It promotes ‘stolen time,’ the idea of carving out moments as a couple, away from the stresses of the daily grind and creating memories to draw upon throughout your life. I stayed in one of the luxury Beachfront Rooms; newly refurbished in a traditional Caribbean style it was made for comfort with its huge four-poster mahogany bed and chaise longue. Stepping out on to my balcony I could feel the weight lifting from my shoulders as the warm ocean breeze swept up and I took in the scene of Malabar beach with its swaying palm trees and clear waters. Other accommodation options include contemporary two-storey suites and luxury beachside cottages where you’re just a few steps from feeling the soft sand under your feet. SUN-FILLED DAYS As a couples-only destination (some exceptions are made for wedding guests) it’s calm and relaxed – no crowded beaches or fighting for sun loungers here. Days can easily be whiled away, book in hand, on the beach divans or by the pool. You can also enjoy the waiter service or the odd trip to the swim-up bar followed by a cooldown in the lazy river that meanders through the grounds. I made the most of the seemingly endless choice of activities on offer, lots with an authentic St Lucian feel including an art class, steel pan drum lesson, wine tasting and creole lesson. An early-morning Pilates class on the beach-side rotund left me wondering if there’s a better way to start the day. Being a couple’s resort all the activities are certainly meant for two, but I loved that none of them felt like forced romance and were designed more for spending quality time in each other’s company. For the slightly more adventurous there’s a whole host of watersports such as water skiing, wind surfing, cycle tours and archery. Even full PADI courses and certification is available. As if I wasn’t feeling laid-back enough I was treated to a Balinese massage at The Spa in the Water Garden. Tailored to my needs, it was an hour of pure indulgence and a welcome treat after the morning’s Pilates. Staff at the spa are trained at Rendezvous’ sister hotel, The BodyHoliday Hannah Faulder discovers the art of stolen time at Rendezvous Resort, St Lucia Jewel of the Caribbean 94