The Somerset on Grace Bay

With its red roof tiles, neatly-landscaped lawns, and pretty courtyard centered on a bubbling fountain, The Somerset has an appealing, Mediterranean look. The small but chic lobby is accented with handsome dark-wood trim and ornate wall sconces. While the property’s condo-style units are almost all generously sized, the common areas tend to be quite small -- although this mostly comes across as intimate rather than cramped. The exception is the sweeping pool area, which leads the eye down to the ocean with its long, dramatic layout.

Roomy units and plenty of kid-friendly programs make this property a hit with families, while the glamorous pool area and outstanding fine dining restaurant give it an ambiance that’s romantic enough for couples as well. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with events like a weekly cocktail reception and lively beach barbecues encouraging guests to get to know one another. 

The Somerset is conveniently located in the middle of a string of resorts clustered along famed Grace Bay Beach. There are numerous dining options -- some independent and others belonging to neighboring resorts -- and two shopping centers found within a 15-minute walk. It’s a 20-minute walk to the nearest grocery store. Numerous attractions are located a short drive away, such as Provo Golf Club, which can be reached in seven minutes by car; and Caicos Conch Farm, which is less than a 15-minute drive away. Providenciales International Airport is 15 minutes away by car. 

The Somerset on Grace Bay’s units are divided into three main categories: Estate, Stirling House (Villa Suites), and Residences. Estate and Stirling House units are full-floor suites (except for the two-floor penthouses), with furnished balconies or terraces that offer views of the pool and ocean. The multi-story Residences are laid-out more like townhouses, with balconies or terraces overlooking the property’s croquet lawn. Estate units are the most opulent, featuring cathedral ceilings and private hot tubs set on wraparound balconies. The property also includes a handful of Queen Rooms, which are more hotel-style and feature kitchenettes with coffeemakers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. These rooms lack balconies and at 275 square feet, they’re a bit small for the price. 

Units are individually owned, and therefore no two are exactly alike. Decor ranges from bright, pastel colors to vivid floral designs to paisley prints, but the furnishings are consistently posh and modern throughout. Most of the furniture is high-quality, dark wood and all units have marble flooring. Flat-screen TVs are found in both living areas and bedrooms. Free Wi-Fi and iPod docking stations are standard. Sprawling Master bedrooms include huge closets, sitting areas, and bathrooms with whirlpool tubs. 

Aside from Queen Rooms, all units have full kitchens with granite countertops and Viking appliances. Wood cabinets are stocked with ample cookware and cutlery, and all kitchens include wine coolers, dishwashers, and electric ovens. Washer/dryer units are also standard. Large, marble bathrooms are stocked with Molton Brown bath products and cozy, waffle-comb bathrobes. Most have glass-doored rainfall showers and separate bathtubs, while some have shower/tub combos. 

Features are a big lure of the Somerset, starting with the property's stunning pool area. The highlight is a majestic 138-foot reverse-current lap pool -- the island’s longest -- with underwater speakers. There’s also a zero-entry, 70-foot infinity pool. Lined with dark rattan loungers and tables on either side, this narrow, elongated pool area unfolds elegantly onto the beach.   

A wooden pier framed by greenery leads down to a 400-foot stretch of Grace Bay Beach. The resort provides loungers and beach umbrellas on this stunning strip of white sand, along with non-motorized equipment like kayaks and snorkeling gear. 

The Somerset’s compact fitness center and independently owned Teona Spa are set in the basement below reception, which unfortunately means both are windowless. The fitness center has an adequate range of cardio machines, weights, and yoga balls, plus there’s a sizable steam room. The spa offers massages, facials, wraps, and other relaxing treatments as well as salon services like waxing and makeup application. The spa has just two treatment rooms, but guests also have the option of arranging massages in their villas or outdoors on a breezy terrace near reception.

The resort has a free kids’ club program for children aged 5 to 12. Activities range from sandcastle competitions and crafts to shell collecting and treasure hunts. An attractive shop in the lobby sells beachwear, liquor, and snacks. The resort’s well-manicured croquet lawn also serves as a venue for outdoor events like weddings. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout, and there’s free self-parking on site. 

The resort’s fine-dining restaurant, Pavilion, features a sophisticated interior dining room with lavish chandeliers, and a lovely terrace overlooking the croquet lawn. Open for breakfast and dinner, the restaurant serves up inventive, locally inspired cuisine, such as conch spring rolls or tenderloin prepared in a wood stone oven. As with most restaurants on the island, it’s pricey. 

Wraps, tacos, and other light lunches are served at casual LunaSea Pool Bar and Grill, which is found adjacent to the two pools. Set in a gazebo, the restaurant’s sunken dining area features a large banquette along one side. Additional seating is offered at patio tables by the pool. The bar provides beach and pool service for lunch and afternoon drinks. 

Room service is available, and the resort can also arrange private dinners on the beach or meals prepared in-room by a chef. The Somerset hosts a beach BBQ every Tuesday, featuring a grilled surf and turf menu, bonfire, and a live DJ. For guests who want to prepare meals in their units, pre-arrival grocery shopping services are offered for a surcharge.