Ladera Resort is perched high on a ridge above Soufrière, set between Gros Piton and Petit Piton so that both spires fill the view from the open side of each suite. The resort is adults only, and the design takes full advantage of the setting: suites and villas have one wall left open to the air, with the Pitons and the sea framed like a painting, and many have a private plunge pool or a terrace for breakfast. The property is a long way up the hill from the nearest beach, which gives it a secluded, eagle's-nest feel. It has a restaurant on the ridge, a main pool with the same panoramic view and a spa. The resort pairs rustic materials, local wood and stone with a polished level of service, and it is a favourite for honeymoons and anniversaries.
Location and getting around
Ladera is on the hillside above Soufrière, a short drive from the town and the Pitons beaches, and about an hour from Hewanorra airport. Its position is the main draw, but it also means you rely on resort transport, taxis or a hire car for trips to the beach, the Sulphur Springs and the trailheads. The roads are steep and winding, so arrange transfers in advance and ask the resort about shuttle options to the beach and to the sights.
The rooms
The open-sided suites are the signature, with the fourth wall left out so you wake to a view straight across to the Pitons. That means more contact with the outdoors, including breezes, tree-frog choruses and the occasional insect, so it is worth reading the room descriptions carefully if you prefer a sealed, air-conditioned room. Higher categories add plunge pools, larger terraces and extra privacy. Ask which rooms have the clearest view of both peaks and which are closest to the restaurant, because the grounds slope.
Good to know
The restaurant is a destination in its own right and serves local and Creole-influenced cooking with a view, and the sunset is a social event on the terrace. The resort works best for couples and for guests who like quiet, views and a slower pace than a beach resort offers. It is adults only, so families should look at other properties, and it is not ideal for guests who want to walk to beaches or shops.
Check what is included in your rate, ask about spa treatments and tours and confirm flexible cancellation terms in hurricane season, which runs to the end of November. Early evening is the best time to arrive, since the light on the peaks is soft.
Why stay here
- ✓Open-sided suites with Piton views
- ✓Adults-only atmosphere
- ✓Private plunge pools in many suites
- ✓Main pool with panoramic view
- ✓Ridge-top restaurant and bar
- ✓Spa treatments
- ✓Sunset terrace
- ✓Close to Soufriere sights
Good questions
Is Ladera Resort adults only?+
Yes, it is an adults-only resort, which is part of its quiet, romantic appeal.
What is special about the rooms?+
Suites are built with one side open to the air, so the Pitons and the sea are framed directly from your bed or terrace, and many have private plunge pools.
Is it near a beach?+
The resort is high on a ridge, so the beaches are a short drive away. Ask about transport when you book.
