Introduction
Part of the Leeward Islands, St Kitts and Nevis is truly spectacular. Wilder than many of its more developed Caribbean neighbours, the two islands that make up this ever-so laid back nation offer a truly enticing blend of white-sands relaxation, luxurious resorts, fascinating history and a landscape that ranges from wide golden beaches to rainforest-clad peaks.
St Kitts – historically one part French, two parts English – is the larger of the two islands, serviced by flights, via Antigua, from London Gatwick. Its atmospheric capital, Basseterre, is as developed as it gets, and once you hit the road, which traces the coast, you'll find just the occasional village nestled between secluded bays and hilltop viewpoints that look out to magical views of both the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. For a look into the island's colonial past, visit Brimstone Hill Fortress and call into some of the plantation that dot the island for the chance to see where sugar, and rum, were produced. Then, for a more modern take on island life, head to beachside bars such as the wonderfully atmospheric Salt Plage to sip cocktails and watch the sunset.
Across a narrow strip of deep blue sea, the tiny island of Nevis, the ‘Queen of the Caribbean', is dotted with colonial ruins, which sit side-by-side with exclusive resorts and spas.The charming capital, Charlestown, is beautifully preserved, while high in the hills elegant plantation houses have been converted into exceptional hotels. It's all framed by the imposing Nevis Peak, which can be summited on a scrambling four-hour return hike. Elsewhere, the island enjoys a fascinating history as the place where Horatio Nelson met his wife Fanny Nisbet. It was also the birthplace of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, and is home to the Caribbean's oldest Anglican church. Explore it all on an island tour, before spending chilled out afternoons at Sunshine's Beach sipping rum cocktails to a classic reggae soundtrack.
