Antigua's long been synonymous with romance. We've got powdery beaches ideal for hand-in-hand strolls, pink sunsets perfect for meaningful chats and candlelit restaurants for when you're finally ready to propose. We've also got an increasingly wide selection of child-free hideaways where there’s very little splashing about in the pool and very few tantrums before bedtime. Love is pretty much assured at these all-inclusive hideaways...
Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa • Dickenson Bay
The ‘Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort’ has two distinct worlds – the all-suite Mediterranean Oceanview Village and the Caribbean Beachfront Village. Distinguishing features include butler villas, Rondoval suites, eleven restaurants, a European-style spa, as well as the largest swimming pool in the Eastern Caribbean. Pictured above.
Cocos Hotel • Valley Church
These 38 private Caribbean cottages overlook our west coast, an area noted for both its splendid beaches and its magnificent sunsets. All the cottages come with king-size four-posters, hammocks, outdoor showers and private balconies. The casual restaurant offers fabulous ocean views too, and there are few better settings for an intimate wedding.
Galley Bay Resort & Spa • Five Islands
This authentic Caribbean getaway is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Set on the edge of a powdery white sand beach, it’s got garden-set cottages with their own pools and luxury suites with private balconies. Both tranquility and adventure are on the menu here, the spa and pool complementing the non-motorised watersports. www.galleybayresort.com
Hammock Cove Resort • Dian Bay
This retreat lies just a few hundred yards from the Devil’s Bridge National Park with its stunning views over the turquoise bay. The 41 villas boast infinity-edge pools, the spa has a water-facing yoga pavilion, the restaurants are either casual or dress-up affairs, and the leisure facilities include nature walks and water hammocks.
Keyonna Beach Resort • Turners Beach
This boutique hotel also lies on the scenic southwest side of the island with its splendid beaches and spectacular sunsets. The islands of Nevis, Redonda and Montserrat are visible on the horizon. All the cottages come with king-size four-posters and verandahs overlooking the sea. The beach restaurant specialises in fresh organic cuisine, and the vibe is chilled and low-key.
Hermitage Bay • Hermitage Bay (over 13s only)
Hermitage Bay is a hideaway in total harmony with its surroundings. Individual suites come with understated luxury and private plunge pools. The oceanside restaurant serves a delicious blend of American, European and Caribbean dishes, while the infinity-edge pool and charming hillside spa are enhanced by one of the island’s most breathtaking beaches.
Hawksbill by Rex Resorts • Five Islands (over 12s only)
This unique hideaway is set in 37 acres of tropical gardens with four beautiful beaches. This includes Antigua's only clothes-optional beach. Leisure facilities include a beachside pool and Wellness Cottage. There are also two restaurants offering varied evening entertainment.
Pineapple Beach Club Antigua • Long Bay
This peaceful oasis is just like Antigua – relaxed and unhurried with the focus very much on the beach. Its location on a stunning quarter-mile stretch of sand is enhanced by three freshwater pools, non-motorised watersports, and restaurants ranging from Chef Pietro overlooking the water to The Outhouse on the hillside.
For further details see The Antiguan Travel Guide www.theantiguan.com