Fully renovated and under new ownership, Antigua’s Hermitage Bay luxury resort is set to re-open on Nov. 1. The multi-million-dollar makeover offers 30 fully redesigned guest villa suites, an increased number of private pools, refreshed spa, and newly landscaped gardens.

Set on 57 hectares of lush tropical gardens over-looking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea on Antigua’s west coast, Hermitage Bay has retained all of its authentic hallmarks while adding contemporary touches along with a new beach club concept and bar, and a host of activities that align with the natural energy and rituals of the destination.

“For nearly 20 years, Hermitage Bay has rightfully earned its reputation as a true Caribbean jewel,” says owner Daniel Shamoon of Luxury Hotels Partners. “This renovation allows us to restore the magic and the soul of Hermitage Bay whilst adding a modern touch and ensuring its future legacy as a world class destination to rival not only other luxury Caribbean resorts, but hotels all over the world.

“In addition to welcoming back many of its loyal guests, we are confident that Hermitage Bay will attract a new generation of seasoned travellers seeking a luxury lifestyle experience in one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful destinations.”

Hermitage Bay’s redesign honours the resort’s unique cove-ensconced setting and is guided by the blended principle of ‘Ubuntu’, or ‘I am because you are’ – reflecting the property’s vision to unite the energy of people and place.

“Hermitage Bay is a truly special and soulful resort,” says long-time GM Rachel Browne. “Our exceptional staff, many of whom are Caribbean nationals, are dedicated to providing world class, warm and welcoming luxury hospitality. We are looking forward to welcoming both returning guests and new visitors to experience the renovated property and tap into the vibrant energy of Hermitage Bay.”

 

The new-look resort includes:

Re-designed villa suites: Each of the resort’s 30 villa suites have been redesigned with a focus on brightening interiors and maximizing al-fresco living. The villa suites are either situated within the lush hillside or just steps from the beach, designed to provide complete privacy and immerse guests in their natural surroundings. Each villa suite features private, expansive wrap-around verandas with views over the Caribbean, many of which include their own pools and outdoor showers.

The resort offers three suite categories:

• 9 Beachfront Villa Suites (120 sq. m.) – Situated on raised stilts and fringed by leafy palm trees, these split-level suites are located right on the white sands of Hermitage Bay’s beach, providing guests direct beach access.
• 4 Garden Pool Villa Suites (115 sq. m.) – Surrounded by verdant tropical gardens and with views over the ocean, the Garden Pool Villa Suites offer split-level al-fresco living just steps from the bay.
• 17 Hillside Pool Villa Suites (98 sq. m. sq ft) – Perched high on the cliffside and tucked into the gardens with sweeping views over the bay, each of the Hillside Pool Villa Suites offers unparalleled privacy, a favourite choice for honeymooners and those looking for a peaceful island retreat.

New culinary experiences

Hermitage Bay has enhanced its culinary offering with the addition of two new ambient and upbeat concepts, along with an upgraded experience at its main restaurant:

New Beach Club: This convivial grill restaurant situated right on the beach will offer lively beachside dining where guests are invited to spend the day savouring seasonal, freshly sourced, local fare and craft cocktails, relishing in the laid-back atmosphere, and enjoying rousing performances from local entertainers.

Tree Bar: The beachfront Tree Bar (photo below) is set under the canopy of an ancient tree with thatched wicker chandeliers hanging from its branches. Featuring a rounded bar built around the tree’s trunk, with high-back wicker seating, streamers of sea glass threaded throughout the trees, and ambient music, Tree Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a Hermitage Rum Punch and socialize with other resort guests while the sun sets.

Pool Bar: The covered poolside bar offers guests a relaxed and friendly ambiance to imbibe in refreshing cocktails masterfully crafted by mixologist Rodrigo Tartaglia and soak in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea that stretch just beyond the pool. Every evening, the bar transforms into a serene oasis where guests can gather, savour exceptional drinks and enjoy the melodies of live musical artists.

The Restaurant: The signature all-day dining experience returns with a newly refreshed design offering al fresco table seating on a wooden deck overlooking the beach. The Restaurant has a relaxed ambiance and it’s here guests form lasting bonds with the staff and each other. Daily breakfast features Antiguan traditional dishes such as cinnamon toast, Caribbean scramble, banana pancakes, specialty porridge, and more. At lunch, guests can enjoy true Antiguan culinary traditions with locally inspired classics including spicy crab cakes, curried goat, and mahi mahi, all mainstays of the menu.

Executive Chef Desroy Spence, a native of Antigua, has ensured that the hotel’s culinary offerings honour local specialties. Collaborating with renowned experts like Liam Smith-Liang, former Head Chef of Le Petit Maison and Sergio Martinez, former Head Chef of Nobu, who have worked closely with Chef Desroy to design the menus, the food and beverage experiences at Hermitage Bay reflect the desires of the global traveller.

New experiences and activities

Hermitage Bay has elevated its guest experience with a range of new experiential and hands-on activities designed to celebrate the spirit of the destination; showcase its natural beauty and encourage guests to discover more of Antigua.

As well as guided farm tours and weekly cooking classes, the resort has added an assortment of new water sports, with the addition of 2.4-m. and 4-m. speed boats and an authentic 9.5 m. sail schooner. Guests will be able to enjoy boat trips around the island; venture on deep sea fishing trips and sunset cruises; or swim and snorkel in hidden island coves.

A short ride away from Hermitage Bay by helicopter or boat is the secluded island of Barbuda where guests can enjoy a long, lazy lunch at sister resort, Nobu Barbuda followed by a relaxing walk along Princess Diana Beach.

Refreshed garden spa

Situated within the tropical gardens, the Garden Spa offers breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and the lush, verdant landscape. The spa’s serene setting blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, creating an oasis high above the coastline. Guests are greeted by a harmonious fusion of elegant design and natural elements, with open-air treatment rooms that invite in the soothing sounds of the waves and gentle sea breezes. The spa’s architecture embraces the island’s charm, featuring organic materials and a seamless integration with the cliff’s contours.

Signature treatments include the Siddhartha Ritual and the Dorissima Colour Ritual, both of which incorporate aphrodisiac-infused products that create a sensual atmosphere.

Hermitage Bay has recently been inducted to the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, a collection of over 570 boutique hotels in over 90 countries that offer one-of-a-kind, secluded, and discrete accommodations with premium standards of luxury and guest wellbeing for the conscious and discerning traveller.

The resort also upholds Green Globe certification, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainable tourism through eco-friendly and community-driven initiatives.

Hermitage Bay is represented in Canada by Canlink Travel (https://www.canlinktravel.com/).

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