Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1067657
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX MONTPELIER PLANTATION & BEACH 115 booked this ancient sugar mill turned din- ing room. We ascend the stone steps to an enchanting round table set with white cloth, china, silver, glassware, and votives sur- rounded by delicate fuchsia orchids. e room glows softly with torchlight. e setting is mesmerizing and we know we are in for quite a treat. Relais & Châteaux properties are known for their five-star dining, and this is no exception. Sailcloth topping the conical structure flutters in the wind. e sound adds to the atmosphere of otherworldliness. e meal unfolds over six courses, beginning with a chilled strawberry soup that is followed by salmon tartar, pan-seared red snapper, and filet mignon grilled to perfection with just enough Caribbean rub to give it a flavorful island kick. Banana mousse and passion fruit caviar are on offer for dessert. Each course is paired perfectly with the sommelier's wine selection. Fully satiated and completely transported, I walk back to my room down a path bathed in moonlight. Once inside, I open my windows and drift off to sleep, lulled by the gentle breezes and chirping frogs. e next morning, I am up early to experience a Pilates class in the property's barn: a three-sided structure with views of sheep and goats dotting a pastoral hillside. Vanessa Pearce, lead instructor and owner of London Pilates Studio, notices that I can't get into every pose and thoughtfully modifies some of the movements. She takes the time to chat after class and I share that I suffer from lower back pain. I learn that she too struggled with back pain but has been able to overcome her injuries. I'm grateful for her sharing her story and hopeful that one day I will be pain free. Again I take note of the kindness and consideration shown by every- one involved at Montpelier. After the early morning workout, I decide to take the shuttle and further unwind at the plantation's private, secluded beach complete with its own bar service. e aqua-blue water beckons and I take a restorative swim. en I head back up to the inn for its 60-foot mosaic pool before heading to my massage appoint- ment at the the outdoor spa surrounded by tranquil tropical gardens. At this point in the trip, I have completely disconnected from my hectic, stress-filled life back home. I decide to spend the rest of the day in a hammock overlooking the sea. I am decidedly transformed by this world-class getaway. Montpelier's mantra is " live fully," and this home away from home has given me the opportunity to do just that. montpeliernevis.com The resort offers luxurious guest rooms and five-star dining.