Villa C'est la Vie

After arriving to the Villa C'est la Vie -- either by taxi or from staff-provided airport transfer -- guests are offered a welcome drink, such as a glass of sparkling wine, and given a personal tour of the grounds. The small property comprises a villa and adjacent cottage -- two gorgeous structures with charming wood details such as louvered shutters and custom moulding -- and lush, landscaped gardens. A lawn features an outdoor swimming pool with lounge areas, while a pathway meanders toward a rocky, quiet waterfront.  

The entire property can be rented out for intimate events, hence the state-of-the-art kitchen in the cottage, and the bar setup next to the pool that can be used for parties or weddings. Details can be arranged in advance, or a small team of staff are always available by cell phone to cater to those who want immediate service. The intimate vibe is suitable for couples, though groups and large families are the primary guests. 

Other than the nearby Windjammer Resort (five-minute walk away), this property is surrounded by residential properties located on a quiet road in northwest St. Lucia. Those traveling by taxi should expect a 90-minute ride from Hewanorra International Airport, or a 20-minute ride from George F. L. Charles Airport. Guests can request a driver in advance (pick-up is free for those staying a week or more), though it might be worth considering renting a car. However, drivers should prepare for slow, narrow, winding roads with jarring potholes. 

Those interested in taking day trips can reach Marigot Bay in 40 minutes by car, while the Pitons near Soufriere are about 90 minutes away. The developed part of Rodney Bay and Reduit Beach -- with hotels, restaurants, and bars -- is about 10 minutes away by car. Free street parking is available and there's overnight security. 

There are only five units -- each one named after a St. Lucian tree -- that can be divided into three separate areas for privacy, though most tend to rent out the entire property for groups of 10 to 12 people. Upscale trappings are on the traditional side, including four-poster canopy beds, wooden and wicker furniture, and pretty textiles in soft greens and blues. All rooms have air-conditioning, ceiling fans, flat-screen TVs, bathrobes, and slippers. Additionally, every bedroom has a full bathroom and a furnished balcony. Living areas have Bose iPod sound systems, DVD players, and a selection of DVDs that can be borrowed.  

The main house is called The Villa, and it has three bedrooms -- two that have king-size beds and a third bedroom that has two twin beds. There are two living rooms here and a big outdoor dining space, but this unit on its own does not have a kitchen. The lower level, however, is a separate one-bedroom apartment unit with a terrace opening up to the pool. This space has a fully equipped kitchen, a king-size bed, and the biggest bathroom of the bunch with a separate shower and jetted tub for two. Next door is a separate two-floor cottage with a king-size bedroom, queen-size sofa bed, and a big kitchen. 

Though the property lacks a sandy beachfront, a private pathway leads to a pristine cove for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is rocky -- not great for sunbathing -- but there is a section above the rocks with benches, and the view faces west for stunning sunsets. Snorkel gear and beach towels are provided. 

The outdoor pool has a unique rounded design, accented by a stone fountain and small island for sunbathing. Lush tropical plants surround the edge and due to the few guests on the property, the pool has a sense of privacy. There are shaded sunbathing areas, but just a few loungers. Guests will be assigned butlers on the property, who are always available by cell phone. A security guard also watches over the premise from the evening until early morning. There are no spa or gym facilities, however. Wi-Fi is free throughout. 

A free gourmet breakfast spread is served every morning, and guests can make use of the two kitchens and barbecue grill for other meals. For an extra fee, a private chef can be arranged to prepare meals next to the pool or indoors (food allergies and special requests are accommodated). There is a wet bar facing the pool called The Banana Bar, which can be used for parties and events, otherwise most stock it with their own alcohol. Grocery and liquor stores are within driving distance.