Occupying a prime position along the shoreline of an unspoilt oasis, unusually unmarred by the threat of overdevelopment, Canouan offers its visitors privacy and exclusivity – a hideaway where serenity and relaxation are revered, and the sea is worshipped as both deity and provider.

The island’s feeling of exclusivity permeates every facet of the hotel, and, with just 26 keys (solely comprising suites and villas) it’s easy to feel that you are the only guest at the resort. Elevating the traditionally-relaxed beachside stylings of the Caribbean, ocean-view and sea-front one-bedroom suites ensure guests wake up to a perfect panorama each and every day. Each villa has been painstakingly designed in Italy in a traditional style, and boast infinity pools extending towards the Atlantic. Flanked by beautifully-maintained grounds, further amenities include a selection of pools, and private stretches of pristine Caribbean shoreline as far as the eye can see.

Mandarin Oriental have been vocal on the need for sustainability in the luxury hotel industry, and Canouan is no exception to this – efforts have been made in every facet to reduce the hotel’s impact on the surrounding flora and fauna. This sustainability pledge is seen most clearly at Canouan with the hotel’s very own sanctuary for orphaned tortoises, staffed by employees of the hotel group, and offers a unique experience for guests to experience the hotel’s conservation efforts in real time.

Caribbean cuisine is known the world over for its uncomplicated but exceptionally flavourful food. Mandarin Oriental Canouan’s gastronomic provisions are no exception to this rule. TIDES BAR + GRILL takes full advantage of its prime location – procuring the freshest and finest ingredients from the larders of the Atlantic and the tilled lands of the island itself. Presenting a fusion of traditional and inventive plates from around the world, invigorated by a decidedly Caribbean twist. TIDES’ dining room showcases its spectacular ocean views from a comfortable and casual residential lounge; when weather permits, al fresco dining on the sprawling terrace is a must – promising delectable dishes and lungfuls of immaculate island air.

If you find straying too far from the shore an unappealing prospect, Lagoon Café serves a Mediterranean menu to be enjoyed al fresco in its house-style restaurant and bar overlooking the Atlantic. For aquaphiles, the Pool Bar ensures that refreshments are close-at-hand; boasting a terrace overlooking the infinity pool, and serving a variety of Peruvian Nikkei-inspired dishes, you need never leave the sun, even for a second. 

If, however, you crave more formal evening entertainment and a slice of sophistication, the Turtle Bar and Lounge blends Caribbean hospitality with the perfect panorama for the lounge’s patrons to enjoy. Expertly-concocted cocktails and an array of familiar and specialty drinks can be sought here, with more than enough choice to find something to whet every whistle.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Canouan truly typifies its own mantra – ‘serenity starts with the soothing power of the sea’. Incorporating hillside treatment suites and an extensive fitness centre, the spa purveys a truly blissful experience. Spa packages, including those tailor-made for couples, and a unique ‘spa safari’ experience, ensure that guests make the most of the island’s regenerative flora and its waters’ healing powers. For those who dare to seek a new outlook on life, the hotel offers a bespoke wellness-overhaul package – ‘Inner Strength and Outer Strength’; developed to foster positive changes and build strength of both body and mind, these one- to five-day personalised programs invite you to bolster and build your inner strength in the serene surroundings of Canouan.

The ‘Castaway’ experience for couples has become a firm favourite with the hotel’s guests – with infinite opportunities for personalisation, the experience culminates in the hotel providing private dining on the beach. Golf enthusiasts are likely to enjoy teeing off at the Canouan Estate’s course – one of the best on offer in the Caribbean. Designed by the acclaimed Jim Fazio, the 72-par, 18-hole, course is set against breathtaking views of the island, and beyond. For those often left behind by their golf-mad partners, there is an enjoyable alternative for reluctant supporters, with the option to wait for the end of the round by partaking in sunset drinks at the 13th hole.

Whether the gentle sound of calypso on the wind and the promised relaxation of island life, or the exclusivity and privacy afforded by a stay at the Mandarin Oriental Canouan are what draws you to the hotel, it offers an experience like no other.

The word ‘holiday’ literally means a ‘holy day’; at The Travel Division, we know that your time is precious and your rest is sacred. By partnering with some of the world’s most prestigious hotel brands, we are able to offer our customers access to a range of exclusive benefits (such as complimentary meals and room upgrades). Your dedicated travel expert curates your perfect package, and with possibilities as infinite as the number of contacts in our little black book, you can write your wish list and set your holiday plans to autopilot.