While Antigua is well known for marketing itself as having 365 beaches, one for every single day of the year, the interior of the island also has immense appeal for visitors. It’s a lush, hilly island studded with historic structures, including 109 sugar mill towers dating from the 17th century. One of the island’s most acclaimed resorts is Sugar Ridge. While not on the beach, it commands a prime hilltop spot on the west coast of the island overlooking the sea and the islands of Redonda, Nevis and St. Kitts.
“We cater to people who want to experience the true island mystique of Antigua,” said Annie McCauley, the North America marketing manager for Sugar Ridge.
The resort’s bedrooms are grouped into sets of four that provide entrances, intimacy and fine views. The upper floor rooms have a large veranda, a dining deck and a day bed; the lower floor rooms have similar features as well as a private plunge pool. Amenities include an iPod docking station, Aveda bath products, a LCD flat-screen television and complimentary Wi-Fi access in each room. McCauley shared some insider tips on rooms to book, noting that the rooms with the best views are units 60, 59, 58 and 57.
The resort makes it easy for guests to enjoy the beach, with complimentary shuttle service to and from four of the best beaches located southeast of Sugar Ridge. Dining is also an attractive feature at the Sugar Ridge.
“Our executive chef, Marvis Brade, was born on Antigua,” said McCauley. “He studied in the U.S. and then came back to the island.”
Carmichael's is the resort’s formal dinner-only, open-air restaurant, offering views of the sea and spectacular sunsets. The cuisine is Caribbean fusion, with an emphasis on locally-sourced seasonal ingredients. If diners are looking for the most intimate table in the Carmichael’s restaurant dining room, McCauley suggests Table 14, a perfect choice for honeymooners.
According to McCauley, Sugar Ridge has the only Aveda Concept Spa in the Eastern Caribbean. The Spa at Sugar Ridge has five treatment rooms, one of which is for couples; a hair salon; manicure and pedicure stations and a yoga/Pilates studio. There’s also a fitness center with 30 pieces of Cybex equipment.
Sugar Ridge is a 35-minute drive from Antigua’s V.C. Bird International Airport and a 25-minute drive to the capital of St. John’s.
The Details
Sugar Ridgewww.sugarridgeantigua.com
