Hermitage Bay, the highly acclaimed, laid-back, luxury resort nestled on the rolling hillside of Antigua’s west coast, is set to open its doors again on 1 November, 2024, following a multi-million dollar renovation project.
The property has been recently inducted to the Small Luxury Hotels of the World portfolio, a collection of 570+ boutique hotels in over 90 countries that offer one-of-a-kind, secluded, and discrete accommodations with premium standards of luxury and guest wellbeing for the conscious and discerning traveller.
Now under the ownership of international hotelier, Daniel Shamoon of Luxury Hotels Partners, the resort retains all the charm that established it as a Caribbean gem while offering inspired enhancements, including 30 fully redesigned guest villa suites, an increased number of private pools, refreshed spa and newly landscaped gardens. The guest experience has been reinvigorated with a new beach club concept and bar, and a host of captivating activities that align with the natural energy and rituals of the destination.
Set on 140 acres of lush tropical gardens over-looking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, Hermitage Bay has retained all the authentic hallmarks that captivate its guests, whilst elevating the overall hospitality experience. The renovation was thoughtfully carried out by same team behind several of Shamoon’s other properties, including the famed Puente Romano Beach Resort in Marbella, Nobu Marbella and Nobu Marrakech. The design aesthetic perfectly captures the soul of the Caribbean, whilst blending in contemporary touches sought after by the modern traveller.
“For nearly 20 years, Hermitage Bay has rightfully earned its reputation as a true Caribbean jewel,” said Shamoon. “By closely collaborating with the expert team on the ground, this renovation allows us to restore the magic and the soul of Hermitage Bay whilst adding a modern touch and ensuring its future legacy as a world class destination to rival not only other luxury Caribbean resorts, but hotels all over the world. In addition to welcoming back many of its loyal guests, we are confident that Hermitage Bay will attract a new generation of seasoned travellers seeking a luxury lifestyle experience in one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful destinations.”
Hermitage Bay’s redesign honours the resort’s unique cove-ensconced setting and is guided by the blended principle of ‘Ubuntu’, or ‘I am because you are’ – reflecting the property’s vision to unite the energy of people and place. Rachel Browne, long time General Manager of Hermitage Bay, has worked closely with the project team to conceptualize and bring the new Hermitage Bay to life.
“Hermitage Bay is a truly special and soulful resort,” said Browne. “Our exceptional staff, many of whom are Caribbean nationals, are dedicated to providing world class, warm and welcoming luxury hospitality. We are looking forward to welcoming both returning guests and new visitors to experience the renovated property and tap into the vibrant energy of Hermitage Bay.”
Hermitage Bay is also proud to uphold its Green Globe certification, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainable tourism through eco-friendly and community-driven initiatives. From the resort’s on-site organic garden that provides fresh produce for guests, to its water-saving shower system, and the Hermitage Bay Caring Foundation supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the Antigua community, the resort is committed to meaningful sustainability in every aspect of its operations.
Hermitage Bay highlights include:
Re-designed villa suites: Each of the resort’s 30 villa suites have been thoughtfully redesigned with a focus on brightening interiors and maximizing al-fresco living. The villa suites are either situated within the lush hillside or just steps from the beach, designed to provide complete privacy and immerse guests in their natural surroundings. Each villa suite ensures that guests feel right at home in their private sanctuary, featuring expansive wrap-around verandas with views over the Caribbean, many of which include their own pools and outdoor showers.
The resort offers three suite categories:
- 9 Beachfront Villa Suites – Situated on raised stilts and fringed by leafy palm trees, these split-level suites are located right on the white sands of Hermitage Bay’s beach, providing guests direct beach access.
- 4 Garden Pool Villa Suites – Surrounded by verdant tropical gardens and with views over the ocean, the Garden Pool Villa Suites offer split-level al-fresco living just steps from the bay.
- 17 Hillside Pool Villa Suites – Perched high on the cliffside and tucked into the gardens with sweeping views over the bay, each of the Hillside Pool Villa Suites offers unparalleled privacy, a favourite choice for honeymooners and those looking for a peaceful island retreat.
New Culinary Experiences
Hermitage Bay has enhanced its culinary offering with the addition of two new ambient and upbeat concepts, along with an upgraded experience at its main restaurant.
New Beach Club: This convivial grill restaurant situated right on the beach will offer lively beachside dining where guests are invited to spend the day savouring seasonal, freshly sourced, local fare and craft cocktails, relishing in the laid-back atmosphere, and enjoying rousing performances from local entertainers.
Tree Bar: The beachfront Tree Bar is set under the canopy of an ancient tree with thatched wicker chandeliers hanging from its branches. Featuring a rounded bar built around the tree’s trunk, with high-back wicker seating, streamers of sea glass threaded throughout the trees, and ambient music, Tree Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a Hermitage Rum Punch and socialize with other resort guests while the sun sets.
Pool Bar: The covered poolside bar offers guests a relaxed and friendly ambiance to imbibe in refreshing cocktails masterfully crafted by mixologist Rodrigo Tartaglia and soak in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea that stretch just beyond the pool. Every evening, the bar transforms into a serene oasis where guests can gather, savour exceptional drinks and enjoy the melodies of live musical artists.
The Restaurant: The signature all-day dining experience returns with a newly refreshed design offering al fresco table seating on a wooden deck overlooking the beach. The Restaurant has a relaxed ambiance and it’s here guests form lasting bonds with the staff and each other. Daily breakfast features Antiguan traditional dishes such as cinnamon toast, Caribbean scramble, banana pancakes, specialty porridge, and more. At lunch, guests can enjoy true Antiguan culinary traditions with locally inspired classics including spicy crab cakes, curried goat, and mahi mahi, all mainstays of the menu.
Executive Chef Desroy Spence, a native of Antigua, has ensured that the hotel’s culinary offerings honour local specialties. Collaborating with renowned experts like Liam Smith-Liang, former Head Chef of Le Petit Maison and Sergio Martinez, former Head Chef of Nobu, who have worked closely with Chef Desroy to design the menus, the food and beverage experiences at Hermitage Bay reflect the desires of the global traveller.
New Experiences and Activities
Hermitage Bay has elevated its guest experience with a range of new experiential and hands-on activities designed to celebrate the spirit of the destination; showcase its natural beauty and encourage guests to discover more of this beautiful island.
As well as guided farm tours and weekly cooking classes, the resort has added an assortment of new water sports, with the addition of two 29ft. and 44ft. speed boats and an authentic 103ft stay sail schooner. Guests will be able to enjoy boat trips around the island; venture on deep sea fishing trips and sunset cruises; or enjoy the day swimming and snorkelling in hidden island coves.
A short ride away from Hermitage Bay by helicopter or boat is the secluded island of Barbuda where guests can enjoy a long, lazy lunch at sister resort, Nobu Barbuda followed by a relaxing walk along Princess Diana Beach.
A Refreshed Garden Spa
Situated within the tropical gardens, the Garden Spa offers breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and the lush, verdant landscape. The spa’s serene setting blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, creating an oasis high above the coastline. Guests are greeted by a harmonious fusion of elegant design and natural elements, with open-air treatment rooms that invite in the soothing sounds of the waves and gentle sea breezes. The spa’s architecture embraces the island’s charm, featuring organic materials and a seamless integration with the cliff’s contours.
Signature treatments include the Siddhartha Ritual and the Dorissima Color Ritual, both of which incorporate aphrodisiac-infused products that create a sensual atmosphere. The experience begins with exotic teas and a soothing foot cleanse in warm, aromatic water enhanced with Himalayan salts, followed by a glass of Champagne. The spa also provides a selection of facials, such as the Goldmund Facial Treatment, which utilizes Algae Marine products and incorporates techniques like gentle facial massage, a rejuvenating mask, and a holistic foot massage. All services are available both onsite and in the privacy of guest villa suites from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
