NATURAL WONDERS
e all dream of escaping to another world sometimes – a place where we can leave the stresses of everyday life behind, go off-grid, relax and reconnect. As one of the lesser-known spots of the Caribbean the island of Saint Vincent is the perfect place for a true getaway.
This untouched island is a paradise waiting to be discovered – boasting stunning beaches, lush rainforests, dramatic natural landscapes and off-the-beaten track adventures. The new Sandals Saint Vincent resort offers an all-inclusive retreat which showcases everything this spectacular island has to offer, and lets visitors enjoy the laid-back Caribbean living that makes this a place like no other.
Whether you’re seeking nature, adventure, a taste of local culture or total restoration, it’s the ideal destination to leave the world behind.
For a tropical getaway that’s secluded, unspoilt and swathed in natural beauty, look no further than the idyllic isle of Saint Vincent. Situated in the lesser known Eastern Caribbean, Saint Vincent is the largest in an archipelago of 32 islands and cays that make up Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – only nine of which are inhabited.
While it might lack the fame of other Caribbean destinations, there’s nothing else lesser about this island. The indigenous name of Saint Vincent is Hairouna, meaning “land of the blessed” – an appropriate description of this enchanting place. Visitors are blessed with breathtaking landscapes, beautiful beaches and hidden treasures.
Tucked away in a private cove on the island’s Buccament Bay, hugged by the Caribbean Sea and surrounded by lush rainforest, the new Sandals Saint Vincent resort is designed with the island’s dazzling natural beauty in mind.
Set in 50 acres of landscaped tropical surroundings, its one-of-a-kind accommodations include overwater villas that perch above crystal clear waters and beach front villas with private pools and spectacular ocean views – plus butler service for added indulgence.
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A HIDDEN GEM
The soft white sands and azure waters that greet you at Sandals Saint Vincent are just the beginning of this island’s splendour. Saint Vincent boasts a vast range of awe-inspiring features, from untouched rainforests and rugged mountains to unique natural wonders you won’t find anywhere else.
Saint Vincent is a volcanic island, which makes for dramatic landscapes – from the towering volcano La Soufrière which created the island, to its distinctive black sand beaches. Hidden among the island’s greenery are tranquil rivers and impressive sights like the spectacular Dark View Falls, where twin waterfalls cascade down, one on top of the other.
Visitors can swim in natural saltwater ponds or dive in the vibrant coral reef, spotting the rare black coral that is unique to the island. There’s also plenty of spectacular flora and fauna to see, whether in the Botanical Gardens (the oldest in the Western Hemisphere) or on the Vermont Nature Trail, where if you’re lucky you’ll catch a glimpse of the majestic Saint Vincent Parrot. For some more sizeable wildlife spots, take a boat out to sea for some whale and dolphin watching. Once the sun sets, there’s still plenty of wonder to take in – just look up to the night sky.
From delicious fish, straight from the sea, to local eats and signature cocktails, foodies will find plenty to their taste here. Fresh ingredients are the star attraction, and you can enjoy a wide range of culinary experiences, from street food to haute cuisine.
Sandals Saint Vincent has 11 restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, and menus that showcase the best the island has to offer. Choose from upscale seafood and steak restaurants, Japanese and Italian spots, beachside dining, and Caribbean street-food shacks. Or try some local dishes in the resort’s family-style restaurant.
CAPTIVATING CUISINE
Bakes Don’t be fooled by the name – this Saint Vincent speciality is actually fried, like a donut. These savoury snacks are traditionally served with saltfish. Enjoy them poolside at Sandals Saint Vincent’s Parisol Beach Bar.
Conch You can’t visit the Caribbean without trying conch (pronounced “conk”) which is fished year-round on the island. At Sandals seafood restaurant Scrimshaw, you can try it in chowder, fritters and salad, or simply grilled.
Breadfruit Coming from the same family as the jackfruit tree, breadfruit is a staple food in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and integral to the national dish: roasted breadfruit and fried jackfish. There’s even a breadfruit festival each August.
Callaloo Made from tropical green leaves – in Saint Vincent, these usually come from the dasheen tree – this spicy stew-like soup is a Caribbean staple. Besides being tasty, it’s an excellent way to top up your vitamins.
Rum It wouldn’t be a trip to the Caribbean without some rum, and a favourite on Saint Vincent is the locally produced Sunset Rum. Go easy though – it’s not called Very Strong Rum for nothing.
5 Saint Vincent must-eats
COMPELLING CULTURE
The island loves a celebration, and the famous Vincy Mas carnival stretches over 12 days each summer and features street parties, costume parades, calypso and steel band performances. But don’t worry if you miss it – there’s a carnival every week at Sandals Saint Vincent, with a Beach Club party featuring live music, fire dancers and local cuisine, all set against the backdrop of the stunning sunset.
There are also cultural activities aplenty available for guests at the Sandals Saint Vincent resort. Grab a rum cocktail, or a local Hairoun beer, and enjoy a movie under the stars. Or if you’re feeling inspired by the gorgeous landscape around you, you can indulge your creative side via beachside painting classes and botanical art lessons.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a rich history, with cultural influences from all around the world, including Europe and West Africa. This diverse heritage makes it a fascinating place to explore.
A tour of the island’s fascinating prehistoric rock art – designated a World Heritage Site – is a must, as is a visit to vibrant capital Kingstown, with its cobbled streets and colourful colonial buildings.
While Saint Vincent is the perfect destination to kick back and relax, it’s also got plenty to offer those who like a bit more adventure.
It goes without saying that water sports are abundant here. The island’s vibrant coral reef makes it an ideal spot for some underwater exploring, and guests at Sandals Saint Vincent can enjoy scuba-diving if they're certified and snorkelling as part of their all-inclusive package.
OFF-GRID ADVENTURES
Your wellness wish-list
You won’t want to leave Saint Vincent – but when the time comes, you can be sure you’ll depart its shores feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, thanks to the broad range of holistic experiences on offer. Whether you fancy paddling out to sea at sunset or dancing in the rain, there’s something to make everyone feel brand new again.
HOLISTIC EXPERIENCES
W
SAINT vincent
The great escape
Saint Vincent, a lesser-known Caribbean island with stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic landscapes, offers the perfect off-the-grid getaway. And there's no better way to enjoy it than with a stay at the all-inclusive Sandals Saint Vincent resort, ideal for adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation.
Set in a private cove surrounded by rainforest, Sandals Saint Vincent makes for the ultimate retreat
Saint Vincent is a twitchers paradise, with over 170 species of birds recorded here, and birdwatching trails to befound across the island. Highlights include Grenada Flycatcher, Antillean Crested Hummingbird, and the St. Vincent Parrot
At Dark View Falls, twin waterfalls cascade down into natural pools below
At Anchor Reef, on the west coast, you can spot the island’s rare black coral garden. Saint Vincent is also known as “the critter capital of the Caribbean,” and at the appropriately named Critter Corner you can swim with a wealth of vibrant tropical fishes. Guests can also kayak through bat caves, or for a more laid-back experience, board a boat for a spot of island hopping. Bequia, the second largest Grenadine island, is a haven for sailing and yachting enthusiasts.
Back on dry land, take a guided bike tour from the Sandals Saint Vincent resort to discover some of the island’s local secrets, or explore the rugged off-road terrain on an ATV. For a challenge, try a guided hike up La Soufrière – Saint Vincent’s highest peak (at 1,234 metres above sea level) and the only active volcano on the island. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the views from the top will make all that effort worthwhile.
PARTNER CONTENT
To find out more about this stunning destination and start planning your luxury all-inclusive break, visit Sandals Saint Vincent
Immerse yourself in beauty with a trip to Saint Vincent’s Botanical Gardens – where you can wander through avenues of palm trees and take in vibrant blooms. Local guides can talk you through the history and the stunning species on-site
High above Saint Vincent's idyllic bays and beaches looms the majestic volcano that created it. Join a guided hike to the summit, learning about flora and fauna en route, then enjoy incredible views across the island from its 1,234m peak
Just north of Buccament Bay, Layou Petroglyph Park is a must-visit. Here you can see ancient Amerindian petroglyphs dating from around 300-600 AD. You can also explore the Rutland River and bathing pool – set against a backdrop of dramatic ridges
Distilled on the island, Sunset Rum is a smooth, but strong rum, delicious in traditional local cocktails such as a Rum Punch or Caribbean Sunset. Find your perfect serve in the stylish surrounds of Sandals Saint Vincent’s Three Jewels rum bar
The capital city of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Kingston is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and natural beauty, famed for its colourful buildings, buzzy marketplaces, and stunning views of the crystalline Caribbean Sea
Produced by Independent Ignite
Project Manager: David Ingle | Editor: Laura MacBeth | Head of Design: Loraine Fajutag | Images: Alamy and Getty
Broaden your culinary horizons via tasty, must-try local dishes
From perfect pools to its luxurious spa, Sandals Saint Vincent boasts a wealth of wellness experiences
Don’t be fooled by the name – this Saint Vincent speciality is actually fried, like a donut. These savoury snacks are traditionally served with saltfish. Enjoy them poolside at Sandals Saint Vincent’s Parisol Beach Bar.
Bakes
Coming from the same family as the jackfruit tree, breadfruit is a staple food in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and integral to the national dish: roasted breadfruit and fried jackfish. There’s even a breadfruit festival each August.
You can’t visit the Caribbean without trying conch (pronounced “conk”) which is fished year-round on the island. At Sandals seafood restaurant Scrimshaw, you can try it in chowder, fritters and salad, or simply grilled.
Made from tropical green leaves – in Saint Vincent, these usually come from the dasheen tree – this spicy stew-like soup is a Caribbean staple. Besides being tasty, it’s an excellent way to top up your vitamins.
It wouldn’t be a trip to the Caribbean without some rum, and a favourite on Saint Vincent is the locally produced Sunset Rum. Go easy though – it’s not called Very Strong Rum for nothing.
Conch
Breadfruit
Callaloo
Rum
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Lose yourself in the serenity of the Red Lane Spa at Sandals Saint Vincent, a haven of tranquillity and relaxation. You’ll leave feeling blissfully pampered and restored.
Spa luxury
Saint Vincent enjoys glorious sunshine year round, but if the rain does make an appearance, embrace it! The Beach Club at Sandals offers a unique rain dance experience that celebrates the weather with colourful lighting and live music.
Rain dancing
Enjoy a peaceful glide across the still waters of the Caribbean Sea as the sun dips slowly below the horizon, offering you the perfect moment of calm.
Sunset paddle boarding
Stretch out on the soft white sands of Buccament Bay, taking in the incredible sights and colours of the surrounding rainforest, mountains and aquamarine waters.
Beach yoga
Whether it’s in the natural pools below the island’s many waterfalls, or the warm, healing waters of the Owia Salt Pond – formed by the lava from the Soufrière volcano – there are many unique swimming spots on Saint Vincent.
Wild swimming
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