Arrival/Check-in: Reaching Nevis can be the trickiest part of the journey, often involving a flight through Puerto Rico or St. Martin on major carriers and then a short island hop on Winair. Once you arrive, Nisbet Plantation is conveniently just a five-minute drive from the airport. Upon arrival the staff unloaded our bags and asked us to leave them while we completed check-in indoors. We were warmly welcomed at the office and offered a refreshing welcome drink as we filled out a few forms. Our rooms were an easy two-minute walk down the Avenue of Palms, a broad lawn lined with palms that leads from the Great House to the ocean. The receptionist walked us to our rooms, pointed out the amenities and assured us the luggage would be delivered shortly — which it was. (28/30)
Guest Quarters: My wife and I stayed in the Belle Vue room, while our two daughters had a separate adjacent room. Our room featured a king-size bed and a sitting area with a sofa, chair and coffee table, and offered an excellent ocean view. A small counter provided a coffeemaker, a hot-water pot, and a selection of teas and coffee, while an honor bar stocked water, beer and soda. The spacious bathroom included a double sink, a long vanity, and a large tub with a shower—though the water pressure could have been stronger. The porch had two chaises and unobstructed ocean views. The girls’ room, located closer to the Great House, did not face the ocean but included a pleasant screened porch that was a great quiet spot for reading. (26/30)
Services/Amenities: Bath products were a combination of the resort’s Palm Spa line and Gilchrist & Soames. There was no television or radio in the rooms, an intentional choice that encourages guests to unwind and savor the surroundings. The property makes that easy with two lovely beaches supplied with fixed wooden umbrellas, tables, chaises and a beachfront bar. Hammocks strung between palm trees create peaceful nooks for reading or napping.
Many guests choose the modified American Plan, which includes breakfast and dinner. Breakfast is served poolside and offers a modest buffet alongside a full à la carte menu, with attentive service. Dinner is served in the Great House, the former sugar-plantation main building dating to 1778. The house, once home to the Nisbet family, has historical ties—Fanny Nisbet later married Admiral Horatio Nelson. The Great House’s wide wooden floors, period moldings and tasteful wallpaper create an inviting, intimate atmosphere. The main floor also hosts a comfortable bar area with overstuffed chairs and sofas, plus another lounge with a TV and board games. Wireless internet is available in the registration office and in some Great House lounge areas.
Dinners were a highlight, featuring excellent food and attentive service. Standout dishes included the island tuna served with eggplant chutney and lemon, and the chef’s miso vegetable soup, both memorable. American Plan dinners conclude with a selection of desserts or cheeses.
Lunch is available à la carte at Sea Breeze on the beach and is not included in the plan. We especially enjoyed the mixed chips—local vegetable chips with robust flavor. A word of caution: Sea Breeze serves a potent rum punch that many guests find unforgettable. (36/40)
Experience: Nisbet Plantation is a calm, restorative retreat that feels like a four-star property delivered with five-star service. The staff are consistently friendly and helpful, contributing greatly to the relaxed atmosphere. My only regret was not taking more time to visit the Palm Spa.
Total Score: (90/100)
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club
St. James Parish
Nevis, West Indies
tel 869 469 9325
http://www.nisbetplantation.com