Brigand Hill

A week at Brigand Hill can be anything you want, full of vigorous activities such as mountain biking, Piton climbing, scuba diving and hiking. Some guests prefer a week of reading good books, lounging by the pool, napping and sampling the superb Caribbean cooking of our staff (with many ingredients coming from our organic garden), even discovering new fruits and vegetables--plantain, avocados, mango, yams, pineapple, etc. (all grown on our property).

Brigand Hill includes many enticements designed to keep you at the villa--great views in every direction, pool and fountain, outdoor showers and private beach. Many guests like to start their day with a walk through the plantation and a swim off our private beach.

Swedish Massage available. Our staff has been trained in Swedish massage, by the staff of the Stratton Mountain, VT Sports Center Spa. The therapeutic benefits of massage are well-known and we think you'll agree--what better place to enjoy one than on our terrace with swaying palm fronds overhead and beautiful views everywhere around you. Fees are $15 / $25 plus tip for a half / full hour, paid directly to our staff.

A typical week at Brigand Hill might go like this.....

Saturday.  Stop at supermarket on way to Brigand Hill from airport and pick up groceries, wine, etc. We recommend the J. Q. Charles Supermarket (if you fly into Vigie Airport in Castries, it's just north of the airport) or Big J's in Roseau, which is on route to the villa from either airport. If you prefer, our staff will shop for you (a fee of $25 is charges for this service). Arrive at villa in time for swim off our beach or pool, cocktails, dinner. Plan menus and activities with Brigand Hill staff.

Sunday.  A great day to get to know our plantation. Hike to back of the estate and, if you're especially adventurous, have Reggie guide you to the Brigand Cave. Note the many wild orchids, plus the Bird of Paradise, and giant ferns. Finish the hike off with a swim. Consider dinner at Marigot Bay or nearby Ti Kaye Village (we are respectively 15 and 10 minutes away). Ask Reggie to arrange a boat trip to Soufriere and points south for the next day (approximate cost for one-day boat charter with captain is approx. US$140.)

Monday.  Meet boat in Anse la Raye and motor south to Anse Chastenet for superb diving and snorkeling. Bring equipment from villa or rent on site. Make Soufriere your first stop and visit the Diamond Baths and Gardens (an easy walk from the village). Back to boat and retrace steps to Anse Chastenet, visiting bat cave on the way. After beachside lunch, motor further south to Jalousie Plantation, located between the Pitons, and snorkel the preservation reefs right under the Petit Piton. After a cocktails, head back to villa, possible stopping at Anse Cochon for another swim.

Tuesday.  If summer, inquire into turtle watch by calling Jim Sparks at 452-9829. Ask Reggie to order up some lobsters (a one-day lead time). Get early start on trip to Maria Islands, home of the St. Lucia Whiptailed lizard and the Maria Island snake. Take Atlantic side route south to National Trust office (phone 454-5014) directly across from Hewanorra Airport. Guide will take you to the Island. Brings swimsuits, as there is a superb beach on the island. If so inclined, continue on the "circle route", stopping at Ladera (just south of Soufriere; phone 459-7323) for cocktails. Enjoy the superb mountaintop view of the Pitons and the Jalousie Plantation below.

Wednesday.  A quiet day at the villa in preparation for the next day's climb of the Gros Piton. Perhaps a walk or drive to Anse Cochon for great snorkeling (10 minutes away). Possible turtle watch at night (from March through July; call Jim Sparks 452-9829, to arrange.)

Thursday.  Get an early start to Soufriere and climb Gros Piton. It will take about two hours to ascend, slightly less to come down. Pack lots of water. Climb is not dangerous, but vigorous and requiring some fitness.

Friday.  To Castries to visit the open-air market. Lunch at the Coal Pot, on the water just north of town and serving superb cuisine. Golf at Cap Estate or Sandals course. Spend afternoon at Le Sport, remembering to book spa treatments ahead of time. Book dinner at one of the many fine restaurants in Rodney Bay ( we especially like The Steak House or Razmataz Tandoori Restaurant), leaving time to stop by the weekly jump up held every Friday night in Gros Islet or Seafood Friday in nearby Anse La Raye.

Saturday.  Relax at villa and prepare for departure.