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If you are looking for romance and seclusion, it’s hard to beat Hermitage Bay, a beautiful hotel on the west side of the island. The beach is long, wide and simply stunning with white sand and aqua water. Best of all, it really feels like you have it to yourself. Chaises are set up in sets of two, each duo about 30 feet from the next. In part, this wonderful sense of seclusion is thanks to the truly dreadful road to the resort. For the last mile or two, it’s unpaved and the potholes are so cavernous that your car often has to slow to a crawl. (I would hate to do the drive at night or in the rain.) As a result, it is unlikely you will see anyone except your fellow resort guests. It also means that Hermitage is not the spot to choose if you want a base for exploring the island. If, however, you want a romantic spot to chill on the beach, you will be in heaven.

Hermitage, which was opened by British hotelier Andrew Thesen in 2006, is made up of just 25 guest cottages. A few are on the beach, but most are built into the hillside. The hill is quite steep, but the staff is happy to ferry you back and forth to the main area in a golf cart. Cottages are simple and elegant with a colonial vibe: dark hardwood floors, four poster beds, white bedding. Each has a verandah with a day bed and two chairs. Although the hillside villas are a bit of a walk to the beach and pool, they offer fabulous views of the bay. The landscaping is quite pretty, with lots of flowering shrubs. Hermitage is particularly good for couples, as the atmosphere is quiet and dignified. There’s a small spa and a large pool.

Hermitage is known for its cuisine, and executive chef Vernan “Dezi” Banhan was named best chef on Antigua last year. The emphasis is on organic food and if you would like, you can accompany him to the local farm that supplies his produce. Rooms from $830.

WHO IT’S RIGHT FOR: Couples looking for a peaceful, romantic atmosphere.

WHO IT’S WRONG FOR: Families. There are no children allowed under the age of twelve, except during July and August, when the age limit drops to eight. It’s a quiet, dignified environment and not suitable for kids.

ROOM TO GET: Although the Beach cottages are considered more desirable, I actually preferred the Hillside cottages for their incredible views. You just need to be mentally prepared for the steep hillside and the multitude of stone steps.