Stonefield Villa Resort

A former lime and cocoa plantation, Stonefield Estate Villa is set on 26 acres of lush, tropical land. A long driveway lined with greenery leads to the resort’s intimate reception area, which features wooden louvered windows and stone detailed walls. From here, paved pathways wind between private, cottage-style villas furnished with earthy, unpretentious decor. Depending on the season, mangos, coconuts, papayas, and other fruits dangle from the trees -- some are later incorporated into dishes at the resort’s restaurant. Guests may spot over 50 species of birds, including hummingbirds and parrots, around the property.

The resort’s hillside location allows for stunning views of Petit Piton and the sea, which are highlighted by a cliff-top pool, a breezy restaurant, and the wide terraces of many villas; however, the steep pathways can be a problem for guests with mobility issues. The ambiance is relaxed and quiet, and the resort tends to attract couples who prefer to keep to themselves. The energy sometimes picks up in the evening, particularly when live entertainment is staged at the restaurant.

Stonefield Estate is located in the hills above Soufriere, nestled amid rainforest and overlooking Soufriere Bay. Quiet, rocky Malgretoute Beach can be reached in 15 minutes on foot. However, the return walk from the beach is a challenging, uphill climb, so most guests opt to take the resort’s free shuttle instead. The shuttle also runs to Sugar Beach, which is a 10-minute drive away. There’s nothing of interest within walking distance, but most of the island’s main attractions are a short drive away. Sulphur Springs is less than a 10-minute car ride from the hotel, while the Tet-Paul Nature Trail can be reached in a 20-minute drive. The nearest hub of restaurants and shops is in the small town of Soufriere, a 10-minute drive away. Hewanorra International Airport can be reached in about 40 minutes by car. Taxis are available but they can be quite pricey, so a rental car is recommended for guests who want to get off the resort. 

Stonefield Estate's villas are understated and airy, featuring high ceilings, white linens, ceramic tiled or stone floors, and handcrafted wooden furniture. Four-poster beds are draped in mosquito netting, and walls are adorned with subtle artwork depicting local scenes. Soft bathrobes are presented neatly on beds, with a few flowers resting on top to add a hint of color. Air-conditioning and iPod docks come standard, but there are no TVs or phones (although guests are given local cell phones to use during their stay). All villas have private verandas furnished with hammocks, lounge chairs, and rocking chairs. Most verandas open up onto decks with plunge pools of varying sizes, which are ringed by decorative rocks. Views are of the sea, Petit Piton, or the forested hillside. 

Ocean View Villas and Majestic Piton Ocean View Villas offer small dining tables as well as kitchenettes with kettles, coffeemakers, blenders, and mini-fridges. Coffee and tea are provided, while plates, cutlery, and glasses are stored in wooden cabinets. All other room categories have separate living areas with full kitchens that include ovens and full-size fridges. Two- and three-bedroom villas feature two bathrooms. There’s also a five-bedroom villa in which each bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom. Bathroom layouts vary from room to room, but all include outdoor showers fringed with plant life. Most have twin sinks, and all have honey and vanilla-scented bath products by Proterra. 

With white tablecloths, wood flooring, and light rattan chairs, Mango Tree Restaurant’s down-to-earth decor allows the dramatic views to take center stage. On the restaurant’s lower level, a cluster of white egg chairs with squishy cushions is arranged beside an attractive wooden bar. Specializing in Caribbean fare, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The food is fairly expensive, and guests report that it's good but not outstanding. The dinner menu changes nightly, and live entertainment is featured from Thursday to Sunday nights. Free a la carte breakfast is included in the room rate, and full-board and all-inclusive packages are also available. Room service is offered during restaurant hours. 

The resort has a small, kidney-shaped pool, which is set on a clifftop with dramatic views of Petit Piton and the sea. The pool is surrounded by a few high top tables as well as swing chairs with canopies. Amais Spa has a lovely wraparound porch overlooking the hotel grounds; it offers a range of massages and beauty treatments, some of which incorporate local fruit purees and plant extracts. The spa also includes a small hair salon. The resort's fitness center is basic but well equipped with a Nautilus universal weight machine, cardio machines, free weights, and balance balls. The adjoining yoga studio has great views of the sea and rainforest. 

A small boutique set in an independent building sells souvenirs, artwork, and sundries like sunscreen and beach accessories. The boutique isn’t always staffed, so guests sometimes need to ask at reception if they want to buy something. The hotel offers free shuttle service to Sugar Beach and Malgretoute Beach. Airport transfers are available for a surcharge. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property, and there’s free parking on-site. Wedding planning services are available as well.