The Sweet Taste of Tides Sugar Beach, St. Lucia

Guarded by the gentle Pitons and nestled in a lush tropical landscape, Sugar Beach Residences is an exclusive paradise for affluent travellers.

It was right about when I was floating on my back in the Caribbean Sea, the salty water washing over my lips, the warm sun kissing my face when I thought: I could get used to this. I had the recent pleasure of indulging in a much-needed escape from the harsh Canadian winter, journeying south to the warm Caribbean island of St. Lucia. My destination: Jalousie, the soon-to-be Tides Sugar Beach.

Nestled between the monumental Val des Pitons – two colossal mountains considered by Oprah Winfrey as one of the five must-see places in one’s lifetime – Sugar Beach is the product of property owner Roger Myers’ love for the area’s breathtaking landscape. The former accountant for The Rolling Stones, Myers began a $100 million revitalization project, transforming the formerly tattered Hilton Resort into an exclusive destination for travellers. Bringing renowned architect Lane Pettigrew onboard was a brilliant move, as the villas, restaurants and amenities radiate with an authentic island feel.

Gazing out towards the water from my private villa – one of 64 available to buy – sipping on Chairman’s Reserve, the “finest St. Lucian rum,” it becomes clear that Myers is passionate about this already award-winning project.

As I stroll towards the pristine beach with its imported sand from Guyana, I’m surrounded by an array of lush tropical plants and flowers. With the sound of local birds chirping softly and the cool sand under my feet, I truly feel the essence of an untouched island paradise.

Lord Glenconner, the man who bought the West Indian island Mustique, described the site as “exclusive without excluding,” meaning that you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the island without the disconnected feeling of all-inclusive resorts. As well as the luxury hotel resort, Tides Sugar Beach has 42 private residences so people can own their own piece of paradise, with prices starting from $2.4 million and running up to $9 million. Those seeking the ultimate property may choose from five beachfront residences on the unbelievable Glenconner Beach, each with its own oversized swimming pool set in a private garden which opens out onto a secluded white sand shore.

I simply couldn’t have been more impressed with the service at Sugar Beach (also a UNESCO World Heritage site). Not only does it radiate with natural yet brilliant architectural design, the resort offers a range of luxurious amenities that cater to the most sophisticated travellers: 24-hour butler service, private pools for each villa, a natural marina for anchored boats, the spectacular Rainforest Spa (try the hot stone therapy), snorkelling in a private reef, world-class dining and the pièce de résistance: an unbelievable view. There simply isn’t anything like enjoying a refreshing Light & Fluffy beverage as the sun goes down between the majestic Gros and Petit Pitons.

Unfortunately, like all good things my trip had to end. But it doesn’t for you. To taste the sweetness of Sugar Beach, go to www.residencessugarbeach.com