Our Own Quite

Guest: josh O.
Date of Stay: 01/29/12 Review Submitted: 02/08/12

The main problem with Nature’s Paradise is that TripAdvisor.com will not let you rate higher than five stars. This place was truly wonderful and stunning at highly affordable prices. We found the “off the beaten path” style to be the perfect arena for relaxing, adventure, romance, and cultural exploration. Nature Dave’s knowledge of the culture and history of St. Lucia, suggestions for exploration, and Eco-tours provided a welcome respite from the resort style vacation and hoards of other tourists. We stayed in the Banana Cottage for a few nights, then the Coconut room for a night. Both were roomy enough for two, and provided ample need. The temperature in the rooms was comfortable with a nice cross breeze coming off the Caribbean Sea. If you are a light sleeper, I might recommend earplugs as the night-time brings out a symphony of tree frogs, but it is a pleasant song to fall asleep to. It is worth mentioning that the sunset from the pool was uniquely different each and every evening we were there, so it would be smart to plan to see them daily. Both Dave and Wanda were highly accommodating to some last minute plans, and provided all sorts of help. We had a wedding on St. Lucia and Dave and Wanda went out of their way to ensure everything happened smoothly, an act of kindness that we will never forget. Room Tip: There is a small private beach at the bottom of the hill. We saw four other people there during our trip. Nature's Paradise does not have a "fitness center", it has a pool and a volcanic island to hike, run, or bike.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway.

Amazing Honeymoon in Paradise

Guest: Greg S.
Date of Stay: 07/24/11 Review Submitted: 11/19/11

At Nature's Paradise, we found exactly what we were looking for in a honeymoon getaway! David and Wanda maintain a beautifully landscaped property with stunning views, and the pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea and the Roseau Valley, especially at sunset, is unforgettable. Avocado cottage was incredibly comfortable and provided ample privacy from other guests, even on the large porch which was great for relaxing in the breeze. Breakfasts spent discussing island history and the plans of the day over coffee, fruit juice, fresh baked bread and varieties of local fruits, were the perfect start to the day. David was very helpful in arranging for a rental vehicle, reserving a sailing cruise, and in providing advice for when we headed out to explore the island on our own. We also spent a terrific day with Nature Dave himself as tour guide on the Soufriere eco-adventure, visiting the volcano park, botanical gardens, and Dasheen restaurant for lunch (a must-do!). The trek into the secluded mineral baths and time spent there is another of our unforgettable experiences of the trip. Marigot Bay is an incredible spot, with great restaurants and friendly locals. We recommend Nature’s Paradise to anyone looking to take a step or two off the beaten path and truly relax! We can’t wait to return!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers.

Paradise in paradise

Guest: gladtobealive.com (Barnstaple, Devon, England)
Date of Stay: 08/13/10 Review Submitted: 05/23/11

We were picked up at Hewanorra airport by Anthony,a friend of David and Wanda and we had a restful drive to Marigot bay and up to Nature's paradise. Our host David was there to greet us as we arrived and he made us most welcome showing us our cottage and introducing us to the grounds of his house. Throughout our stay David made us feel like we were at home and he is now a confirmed friend. He got a good blend of being around whenever we needed him but allowed us to be alone to use the grounds without interruption. The grounds included a swimming pool with a drop dead gorgeous view of the carribbean from its elevated cliff top position. Natures paradise is truly a paradise on earth with humming birds regularly flying in and out of bushes next to our cottage. The cottage we stayed in was private and had a great panoramic view over the caribbean and was extremely well equipped with a hair drier in the bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen right down to cutlery and bottle opener. The breakfast which is served Monday to Friday was lovely with fresh bread and a great variety of exotic fruit and real coffee on offer for as long as you feel you need.This was an opportunity to meet our fellow guests who were from New York and Boston in the US. We very much enjoyed their company and again I do feel that we have made some genuine new friends. Marigot bay is beautiful with a good choice of restaurants but I have to say that I was a little surprised by how expensive food was. We went to Natures hideaway,Doolittle's,Chateua Mygo and Julietta's and enjoyed all our meals which included lobster, Coconut shrimp,Creole chicken etc. We paid several visits to Rodney bay which has a stunning beach which was used by locals and holiday makers alike but never seemed very crowded. Also in Rodney Bay was a marina which was a great place for lunch a drink or an ice cream or something a little stronger. The drive to Rodney bay took about 40 minutes from Marigot bay but was very pleasant with a service station along the way. David acted as a tour guide one day when he took us on a trip to a real but benign volcano along with a real spring bath that we went to bathe in .It was like a very warm bath. This was followed by lunch at a stunning hotel with gorgeous food and a fantastic view towards the Piton mountains. He finished us off with a tour of a beautiful tropical gardens. St Lucians are very kind,helpful and friendly and very often we witnessed them going a mile out of their way to

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, families with teenagers.

Paradise Found (eat your heart out, John Milton)

Guest: Sue and Steve (South Petherton, Somerset, UK)
Date of Stay: 02/02/11 Review Submitted: 03/08/11

Right, so you're wondering "Shall I go ahead and book Nature's Paradise/Banana Cottage?" Let me spare you the angst. Do not hesitate. Just do it. You'll love it. Let's start at the beginning. We wanted away from the tourist resorts where all you can do is pick your way between everyone else trying to do the same thing, namely stake out your square yard on the beach. We wanted beautiful Caribbean surroundings - trees, flowers, birds, sea, that kind of thing - a pool with a fabulous view of the setting sun, nearby restaurants with great local food, a good location to explore the island, and unobtrusive peace and relaxation for two. Nature's Paradise has all that by the bucketful: 5 star, 10/10. David and Wanda are fantastic hosts. I challenge you to ask a question about St Lucia past or present that they can't answer and their tropical breakfasts are a knockout (as well as a great chance to pick the brains of your fellow guests about things to do, places to go - including the less populated, quieter beaches). Tips:- * The western side of the island is much more interesting than the east: Nature's Paradise/Marigot Bay is within an easy drive of the beautiful Pigeon Island to the north and Soufriere and the Pitons to the south. * While you are there, don't miss out on David's day tour of Soufriere, the sulphur springs and the botanical gardens - both a really good day out and a great introduction to the island and the people. * Castries fish/vegetable/spice market is well worth a visit as is the cathedral. Just beside the market is an alleyway packed with chairs and tables from the eateries; it's where a lot of locals lunch and what better recommendation can there be than that. * Do take David's advice to hire a jeep. Following hurricane Thomas last October the drive up to Nature's paradise is too challenging for anything less (and more fun than some of the rides we had at Disney World the week before). The 'major' roads suffered in places too so do go for something rugged. * Fish Fry-Day at nearby Anse-La-Reye is not to be missed. The roads are closed and filled up with stalls – great barbecued food (though you need to be early to get the lobster), more varieties of rum than you can shake a stick at, and a great, fun atmosphere – though I wouldn’t stand too near the massive sound system no matter how much you enjoy reggae.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, age 55+.

Romance, adventure and friendly hospitality

Guest: EandF (Loveland, CO)
Date of Stay: 01/08/11 Review Submitted: 02/15/11

If you want great views, comfortable accommodations, and lots of relaxation, Nature’s Paradise is a wonderful place to stay. We stayed in a cottage with a large deck overlooking the Caribbean, and explored the island by car. The proprietors, Dave and Wanda, are very friendly and went out of their way to provide great service and lots of information on activities and places to visit and dine. Dave’s enthusiasm for the Island’s culture and history is definitely contagious. We went on one of Dave’s tours, and experienced places on the island we wouldn’t have found by ourselves. For us, Nature’s Paradise provided the perfect combination of romance and adventure. We highly recommend Nature’s Paradise for very nice, unpretentious accommodations in a beautiful, romantic setting.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, age 55+.

Paradise Found

Guest: Judy (Connecticut)
Date of Stay: 01/30/11 Review Submitted: 02/15/11

This is the vacation by which all others will be measured. Nature’s Paradise in Marigot Bay, St. Lucia, offers the perfect tropical vacation: a lush, verdant retreat; breathtaking views from the balcony, pool, and patio; and the gracious hospitality of hosts Dave and Wanda, who made us feel incredibly welcome in their hill-top home. Ditto the cats and the birds, which were soon eating out of our hands. Sharing the bountiful breakfast with our hosts and the other guests each morning made us feel like part of a family. Dave and Wanda left their old life behind in New York to pursue their dream of living in St. Lucia. Their love for the island, its people, and its culture are obvious and infectious. Dave’s Soufriere Adventure is fun and informative, thrilling (those roads!), relaxing (those volcanic hot springs), and delicious (lunch at Laderna). It is the perfect way to get to know the island. From Nature’s Paradise you can be as active or relaxed as you desire. Go Scuba diving by the Pitons, or pack a picnic and find that quiet beach by Pigeon Island and let all your stress melt away. (And if you happen to lose your car keys in the water, no worries. Dave will make that hour drive to rescue you if needed.) Don’t miss the view of Marigot Bay or the coconut shrimp at Julietta’s. St. Lucians are warm, funny, and helpful. The food is wonderful, the rainbows plentiful, the weather perfect (especially coming from the snow bound Northeast). This is a trip worth repeating!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers.

An Oasis and Excellent Base of Operations

Guest: Knitterlady (Lebanon, PA, USA)
Date of Stay: 12/28/10 Review Submitted: 01/09/11

Nature's Paradise is a beautiful oasis on an island with something for everyone. Wanda has landscaped the property with lush tropical vegetation, creating a lovely spot for just relaxing by the pool with a cliff side view of the Caribbean or lounging on the balcony of your room or cottage. The photos show the site before the foliage has filled in. Its location on Marigot Bay also makes it the perfect base of operations for exploring the island. We highly recommend the Soufriere EcoAdventure; this truly lovely day includes a nice balance of adventure and exploration and pampering while providing an excellent introduction to St. Lucia. We visited several beaches (free to all, regardless of what resort is there), sailed, snorkeled, hiked, enjoyed excellent meals - Chateau Mygo, Doolittles, Ladera - topped off by one of best meals of our lives at Rainforest Hideway...definitely worth the splurge. The cottages also have a kitchen (we stayed in Banana Cottage) so cooking in is also an option. Regular maid service and proactive maintenance keep the B&B ship shape. A four wheel drive vehicle is recommended; the road to the inn is rough and you'll need it to explore the more remote areas of the island. David and Wanda are consummate hosts and guides. Wanda's simple, but nutritious and delicious breakfasts are the perfect start to the day. Their local knowledge was invaluable. Conversation over breakfast leads to new adventures as you discover where other guests have explored. Whether your visit is for relaxation, exploration, or both, Nature's Paradise is the perfect place to call home while you're on island.

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+.

Honest people, caribbean sun, and winding roads through lush mountainous terrain was paradise in St

Guest: Paul (NYC)
Date of Stay: 07/15/10 Review Submitted: 08/09/10

We were fortunate enough to spend 7 nights at Nature's Paradise. Situated on top of a scenic ridge line overlooking Marigot Bay and the Caribbean Sea, David and Wanda Wallace have created an idyllic villa nestled amidst exotic tropical flowers, plants, and trees. The pool, situated just below the main house and a stone's throw away from the two cottages, provided the perfect respite from the hot caribbean mid-day sun. The view of the sea from the pool was breathtaking. Surrounded by a small bamboo waterfall and exotic tropical palms and flowers, lazing in the cool waters helped relax our NYC-stressed minds. We had 24 access to this little oasis. Thank you David and Wanda. Our first complimentary breakfast with David was a lesson in mangoes and their numerous varieties. We were served unique specimens that were sweeter and more tender than anything I've eaten here in the states. As the week progressed, we looked forward to breakfast with David each morning. He is a wealth of knowledge and a gracious host. We talked about everything from filming documentary footage in Havana to secret sulfur springs hidden in the mountains surrounding Soufriere. David drove us into Marigot Bay for dinner at Chateau Mygot. We had the best pina coladas of our lives there. Situated right on the bay, I could feel my lower back tension dissipating into the St. Lucian evening mist. Later that week, we returned to the bay two more times for dinner at the Hurricane Hole and the Rainforest Hideaway. Lauded by many as the finest restaurant on the island, Rainforest Hideaway was the perfect way to end a much needed vacation. It was also a nice way for my recently engaged fiance to show off her new ring which takes us back a few days to another memorable dinner at Dasheene. A few nights earlier, after spending a rigorous day exploring the volcano, sulfur springs, and water falls at the base of the Pitons, I proposed to my fiance overlooking the Gros and Petit Pitons. The view from Dasheene has characteristics such that the native Amerindians of the island considered it a sacred site. We felt fortunate that we could share a special moment there. As David was seeing us off on our last day, a local happened to be passing by. We introduced ourselves. With a larger-than-life smile usually reserved for close friends, the local suggested that we put a handful of sunshine in our pockets so that when we arrived back home, we could take it out and savor the little bit we took home

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.

Guest: DearJane2u (-)
Date of Stay: 06/22/08 Review Submitted: 06/24/10

From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in paradise. Beautiful views, great food, and friendly people. St. Lucia is amazing. If you are looking for a beautifully decorated home off the beaten path to relax and bask in the warmth of St. Lucia, nothing compares to Nature's Paradise. The owners of this bed and breakfast, David and Wanda Wallace, are the sweetest people. They are attentive and entertaining; David probably knows more about the Island than the most. But be careful, he can catch you off guard with his deadpan humor. We hated to leave, but will return to this paradise in the midst of the nature than defines St. Lucia. Nature's Paradise. A fitting name indeed.

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Guest: Lisa Luebker (Jacksonville, FL USA)
Date of Stay: 07/03/08 Review Submitted: 07/03/08

My husband and I have stayed at Nature's Paradise twice now, and it is a wonderful place from which to enjoy your St. Lucia vacation. The grounds are like a tropical garden, the hosts are great company and very knowledgable and accomodating, and the location has stunning scenery and is convenient to lots of island activities. Please feel free to contact me if you would like more information - this is a great place to stay!

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