This ethereal honeymooners' hideaway dispenses with modcons like TVs, phones, and even air-conditioning. But the sweeping views of sparkling Jalousie Bay and the Pitons from this breeze-filled ridge top (some 1,100 ft. above sea level) make flat-screens and other digital playthings ho-hum by comparison. Just outside of Soufrière, Ladera is the place to come for ultra-private R&R and luxe pampering. St. Lucia seems to have cornered the market on open "fourth walls"—leaving one side of an accommodation open to the elements—and here that means every room has jaw-dropping views to sail off to dreamland with. The romance continues with private plunge pools (some with waterfalls), fourposter beds, and artisanal "eco-lodge" furniture, fanciful and fun and made in-house. Built on two levels, the seven Dream Suites take the luxe factor to new heights.

Ladera has no beach, but you can take the regularly scheduled 15- to 20-minute (complimentary) shuttle to Sugar Beach. Still, you may not be inclined to go anywhere, especially with a garden spa and one of the island's top dining destinations, Dasheene, on-site. Ladera is designed to be a couples' retreat; children 17 and under are not permitted here, except during Christmas week.