Each of the Caribbean islands is beautiful in its own way, but only St. Lucia has the Pitons, two majestically soaring volcanic spires that are impossible to ignore (not that you’d want to). The island is epically romantic: lush hills and valleys, swaying palm trees and pristine beaches are just the beginning. Big smiles, genuinely welcoming hospitality and unforgettable adventure are all part of the St. Lucian culture.

STAY

Rendezvous is the Caribbean’s first couples-only, all-inclusive resort. Surrounded by tropical gardens and the island’s longest white sand beach, Rendezvous has been owned by the Barnard family for more than 50 years. Originally the family’s private home, the Barnards opened their doors to neighbors and friends and a resort was born. “We treated all guests as family, not strangers,” says Managing Director Andrew Barnard, who grew up on-site.

Today that welcoming tradition lives on. Laid-back, friendly and unpretentious, you really do feel like a member of the family. “We remember a visitor’s name, their favorite cocktail, we treat each other with respect and kindness, and that helps to create a very welcoming and positive atmosphere,” says Barnard. “We don’t wear name tags at Rendezvous, because who wears name tags in their home?”

Everything about Rendezvous is designed to encourage couples to unplug, forget the stress of the outside world and reconnect, rediscover and just be. Guest rooms do not include televisions (“Talk to each other!” urges Barnard) and the resort’s nickname, “A Place of Stolen Time,” more than delivers.

EAT

Rendezvous offers stellar cuisine, from glamorous, fine French-West Indian dining at The Trysting Place to no-shoes-allowed, toes-in-the-sand, water’s edge Malabar Beach Club – our personal favorite for a rehearsal or wedding dinner.

Celebrations at Rendezvous are unmatched in the islands. Under a brilliant blue sky with the sea gently lapping at sugar-white sands, weddings, anniversaries and vow renewals can be as grand or as intimate as you wish. Whatever life moment you’re celebrating, your experience will be unique

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2017 issue. You can order a copy here.

Photos courtesy of (in order of appearance): Rendezvous Saint Lucia (1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th), John Roark (2nd).