Casa del Vega

The pale-yellow Casa del Vega is a small guest house run by a family who lives on-site and often interacts with guests. Rooms are situated on two floors via open-air hallways sprinkled with orchids from the owner's garden. On one end is a shared indoor and outdoor lounge with a porch offering beautiful sea views, while the other side holds another deck, a raised dining area, and a set of steps leading to the pebbly and private beach. It's possible not to see any other guests, so some may feel as if they have the whole place to themselves, save for the resident cat. Due to this and its location, Casa del Vega is a tranquil, home-like stay best suited to those seeking a peaceful property away from the tourist crowds.

This guest house is located on a quiet residential road (far from tourists) in northwest St. Lucia next to pretty ruins, which gives it a touch of unexpected local charm. Those traveling by taxi should expect a 80-minute ride from Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort (UVF), or just a five-minute ride from George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU). Due to close proximity to the latter, Casa del Vega tends to attract travelers who need a place to stay before or after flying. The ferry terminal is a 15-minute drive from here.

Guests can request a driver in advance, or take a taxi. The owner, Merlyn, has also been known to offer rides for a nominal fee, though it might be worth considering renting a car for access to restaurants and shops. Guests driving themselves should prepare for narrow and winding roads with jarring potholes, and use extreme caution after dark. For those interested in taking day trips, Marigot Bay is 35 minutes away by car and the Pitons near Soufriere are just over 90 minutes. The nearby developed part of Rodney Bay and Reduit Beach -- flush with hotels, restaurants, and bars -- are about a 20-minute drive away. Adventurous types can use the local bus system; the nearest stop is on the main road, about a 20-minute walk from the hotel.  

The 10 rooms available are dated and showing signs of age, particularly those with mismatched colorful floral-patterned curtains, slipcovers, and bedspreads that are a bit garish. However, they're clean and decorated with bright colors that help give them a cheerful vibe. Plus, homey details such as gold-framed paintings and colorful vases do add a bit of charm. All have small tube-style TVs, air-conditioning, and mini-fridges, while studios are also equipped with sitting areas and small kitchenettes with stovetops. 

Double Rooms are the most basic and affordable option, and though they lack balconies facing the water, guests can utilize the shared patio (the Sunset Lounge). Three bigger apartments are also available, with two, three, and five bedrooms. They have shared kitchens, patios, and living areas -- some that are quite spacious. The owner will often grant an upgrade based on availability -- especially for longer stays -- so it doesn't hurt to ask during check-in. If lucky, guests might get an entire apartment to themselves. 

Bathrooms -- some with shower/tub combos, others with walk-in showers -- might be the biggest source of concern, as there have been past complaints of low water pressure and unreliable hot water. Toiletries are not provided. 

This is not a resort-style hotel in the least, hence the lack of an outdoor pool, but those who like to swim will have access to a pebbly beach via a series of somewhat dilapidated steps. The private beach's pebbles are mixed with some litter that's been washed ashore, but the crystal-clear water is calm. A long sandy beach that's open to the public can be reached within a 10-minute walk along a residential road.

Many rooms have their own patio or balcony, but those who don't can use the shared Sunset Lounge, which offers seating and beautiful views. The on-site dining room serves a simple breakfast spread for a fee, but lunch and dinner aren't available. Guests can either buy groceries and cook themselves or head to restaurants a short drive away. 

Wi-Fi is free but sporadic; the strongest signal can usually be found in the lounge.