By james art 
Known for its laid-back luxury, Antigua’s Hermitage Bay will reopen on November 1, following a multi-million dollar renovation project.
The property is now owned by international hotelier Daniel Chamoun of Luxury Hotels Partners. The new owner says the 140-acre property, nestled on a hill on the island’s west coast, retains all the charm that established it as a Caribbean gem, while offering “inspired upgrades.”
These include 30 completely redesigned guest villa suites, an increased number of private pools, a refreshed spa and newly landscaped gardens. The new owners say the guest experience has been revamped with a new beach club and bar concept, along with a host of activities that “match the destination’s natural energy and rituals.”
The renovation was carried out by the same team behind several other Shamoon properties, including the famous Puente Romano Beach Resort in Marbella, Nobu Marbella and Nobu Marrakech.
Hermitage Bay was also recently inducted into Small Luxury Hotels of the World, a collection of 570+ boutique hotels in over 90 countries that offer one-of-a-kind, secluded accommodation with premium standards of luxury and guest well-being.
Highlights of Hermitage Bay include:
Hillside Pool Suite at Hermitage Bay, Antigua – member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. (Photo: Hilton)
Redesigned Villa Suites: Each of the resort’s 30 villa suites has been thoughtfully redesigned with an emphasis on brightening the interior and maximizing outdoor living. The villa apartments are either located amidst the lush hillside or just a few steps from the beach, designed to provide complete privacy and immerse guests in their natural environment. Each villa suite features expansive verandas overlooking the Caribbean, many with private plunge pools and outdoor showers.
The resort offers three categories of apartments:
· 9 Beach Front Apartments (1,301 sq. ft.) – Perched on raised stilts and fringed with leafy palms, these split-level apartments are located right on the white sands of Hermitage Bay Beach, giving guests direct beach access.
· 4 Garden Pool Villa Suites (1,239 sq. ft.) – Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and overlooking the ocean, Garden Pool Villa Suites offer split-level outdoor living just steps from the bay.
· 17 Hillside Pool Villa Suites (1,055 sq ft) – Perched high on the cliff and nestled in gardens with spectacular bay views, each of the Hillside Pool Villa Suites offers unparalleled privacy, a favorite choice for honeymooners and those seeking a tranquil island retreat.
New culinary experiences
Hermitage Bay has enhanced its culinary offering with the addition of two new atmospheric and upbeat concepts, along with an enhanced experience in the main restaurant.
New Beach Club: Located right on the beach, this friendly grill restaurant will offer a lively beachside dining experience where guests are invited to spend the day enjoying seasonal, freshly produced local dishes and craft cocktails, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere and enjoying performances by local artists.
The new Tree Bar in Antigua’s Hermitage Bay. (Photo: Hermitage Bay)
Tree Bar: the waterfront Tree Bar is set under the crown of an ancient tree with straw wicker chandeliers hanging from its branches. Featuring a rounded bar built around the trunk of a tree, with high-backed wicker seating, strips of sea glass strung across the trees and ambient music, the Tree Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a Hermitage Rum Punch and socialize with other guests at the resort as the sun sets.
The restaurant: The signature all-day dining experience returns with a newly refreshed design, offering outdoor tables on a wooden deck overlooking the beach.
New experiences and activities
Hermitage Bay has enhanced its guest experience with a range of new experiential and hands-on activities designed to celebrate the spirit of the destination; showcase its natural beauty and encourage guests to discover more of this beautiful island.
In addition to guided farm tours and weekly cooking classes, the resort has added an assortment of new water sports, with the addition of two 29-ft. and 44 feet. speedboats and an authentic 103-foot schooner with a stable sail. Guests will be able to enjoy boat trips around the island; take deep-sea fishing trips and sunset cruises; or enjoy a day of swimming and snorkeling in hidden island coves.
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