Mount Hartman Bay Estate

Imagine a small luxury boutique hotel on a picturesque bay in the Caribbean. Now add a dash of whimsy and a touch of fantasy, and you might get something similar to the Mount Hartman Bay Estate. This plain-sounding name does not do justice to the unique, undulating design that characterizes the buildings. The rounded, cave-like shape of the hotel, featuring a domed, grass-covered roof, a is intended to fit into the natural landscape and mimic the lines of the gently rounded peaks of Mount Hartman, the small mountain the hotel is named after, which sits across the bay. Inside, the lobby features dark wood, jewel-toned fabrics and antique sofas and settees. The Mount Hartman Bay Estate property has been around for about a decade, but it was rented out privately until converted to a hotel in recent years.The creativity extends into the hotel’s luxurious suites: Each room is different, and has unique features such as a hidden bathroom, private outdoor shower, or a bathtub framed by a crescent-shaped window overlooking the bay. With a maximum capacity of just 22 guests, the hotel is very serene and intimate -- guests and staff tend to get to know each other. The overall vibe is very polished and modern, but still relaxed. This is not the place for partygoers, as evenings are very quiet, but it’s ideal those seeking a tranquil getaway.

Located across the bay from the small mountain that it’s named after, Mount Hartman, the hotel sits on a hillside with sweeping views. The property faces onto a protected bay on a quiet peninsula on the south coast of the island. The area also contains a nature preserve that is home to the Grenadian dove, an endangered bird that only lives in a few parts of the island. It’s only about a 10-minute drive to airport, and a 20-minute drive to the quaint capital city of St. George’s.

The rooms blend antique statement pieces, like a high-backed wooden bench that resembles a Victorian throne, with smart modern decor. All rooms are suites with dramatic canopied beds on platforms, with padded, velvet-lined headboards and their own lighting and ceiling fans. Terra-cotta tiled floors, dark wood, crisp white curtains, and jewel-toned accents in deep purples, turquoises, and emeralds give the rooms an elegant feel.Many rooms have door panels that open to the outside, and every room has a beautiful deck or terrace with sweeping ocean views. Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and coffee and tea facilities. There are thoughtful details like in-closet lighting and remote-controlled window shades in some rooms. Even the beautiful, spacious bathrooms have unique aspects like a secret door, a large outdoor shower, or a soaking tub set before a huge window facing out on the water.

The lovely Cave Restaurant has a fittingly cavernous interior, with a waterfall in one corner trickling down from a skylight above. It faces out onto the bay with panoramic views and serves upscale Caribbean and Mediterranean dishes.The gorgeous infinity pool is perched on a cliff overlooking the bay below. It also includes a large hot tub. There are several comfortable lounge chairs provided by both the beach and pool. Water sports including snorkeling, kayaking, and Hobie Cat sailing are available to guests. There's no spa on the property, but in-room treatments can be arranged. There are a private dock and a helipad -- you know, for those who may want to arrive by helicopter.

The biggest drawback of this property is that it’s not located on a natural beach. There is a nice man-made beach, in which fine white sand is placed over a hard surface at the water’s edge, but it’s not quite the same as the real thing. The advantage is that it’s totally and blissfully private, unlike on some of Grenada’s busier beaches like the popular Grand Anse. Mount Hartman offers a free shuttle back and forth to Grand Anse. The waterfront area is lined by rocks, and is not the best place for swimming, especially for young children.