Here's an experience for the serious 'chocoholic'! Opening February 2012, Hotel Chocolat on the gorgeous Caribbean island of St Lucia is an idyllic retreat on a private 57 hectare cocoa estate where luxury chocolate is sourced.

There are only 14 rooms here (or Cocoa Pods as they are known), the Boucan restaurant has gourmet and chocolate inspired dishes and at the spa there is a 45 minute massage treatment with a rich, hydrating balm made from cocoa beans!  If you are into food and drink holidays and have a passion for chocolate, this is a must do destination!

This cocoa estate is the oldest on the island of St Lucia, dating back to 1745 and has some really old, rare trees.  The first two years that the present owners had the plantation they spent the time rehabilitating the cocoa groves, restoring the historic estate house and opening up the whole 'Hotel Chocolat' experience to their customers.  This is a place created through a vision of nature, hedonism, style and well being ... plus of course, plenty of chocolate!

The Boucan restaurant at the hotel is open to residents and non-residents and has a strong link with cacao and chocolate. Cacao has been used as a savory ingredient for over 3000 years and 500 years as a sweet one. Chefs here take inspiration from the natural produce of the estate, plus local seafood and fish, veggies and plenty of fruit.  The roof of the restaurant is in the shape of the cacao tree and is shaded by tropical trees, there is a high platform with breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.

The Cocoa Pods (cottage rooms) are in a courtyard around the old Royal Poincianas tree with views of eitehr the Petit Piton mountain or the courtyard.  They are 450 sq feet and have an open sky rain shower.

Luxe Cocoa Pods have an elevated position with fabulous views of the twin Pitons and the Caribbean Sea. These are larger at 750 sq feet and have a lounge and verandah as well as a large bedroom.

For any tailor made holiday to the Caribbean island of St Lucia and a stay at the new Hotel Chocolat, please get in touch and I will arrange your perfect Chocolate holiday!