Hampshire Hotel - Queen's Gardens Resort

Saba Queen’ Garden & Spa

Still slightly overwhelmed by the short but impressive plane ride, we're promptly taken to the hotel. The taxi ride gives you a quick taste of the island, passing through Hell’s Gate, Windward, the largest settlement, restaurants and bars hub on Saba, and finally, our destination: The Bottom. Hikers will notice, either daunted or excited: it’s all hills. 

Arriving, we are greeted by Cherrie. A warm sincere welcome. She sat us down. Refreshing scented towels, drink. And enquired about what our trip was about. She really took her time, like there were no one else in the place. Gave us lots of info about the hotel, what to do, where to eat, hiking, diving. How to say it? Did The Queen' Gardens have us at hello? You could say that. 

We were then led to our top floor suite, #8. Generous space. More living quarters than room, separate bedroom king bed, jacuzzi (which is amazing coming back from hiking, or diving! . The view from there is another big part if the love at first sight impression. Now that we're back, I find that vista stayed with me. I can appreciate how amazing it was to wake up, have coffe, and then enjoy it still throughout the day, the mesmerizing ocean nestled between Bunker and Great hills, while the red roofed, European looking The Bottom, earning its name, rests down in the middle of that picture. 

Like they say, location, location, location. 

While at the Queens, we did enjoy a few diners on the premises. They were more like culinary experiences rather than simple meals. The restaurant and its chef Nick offer impressive dining. Even lunch was excellent. All of this while sitting out, dining « al fresco », in a gorgeous, romantic atmosphere. 

Of course we walked. Mount Scenery, Paris Hill, The Ladder, are all easily accessible from the resort. Good shoes, walking stick, water, sunscreen; the usual, will be needed. Other trails will require a taxi ride to get to or back from. Some of these places do require a decent physical condition. All will give you a really nice rewarding feeling once done. More importantly, all of them offer a unique Saba 
experience. Wether it's vistas, a challenging climb, splendid vegetation, or historic voyage. For any outings, Claire or Cherrie will give you all the details. 

Diving Saba. Well I'm sure you could enjoy the island without, but... The Unspoiled Queen offers a generous part of her riches underneath the water. Cherrie who is herself an experienced diver will help you set it up, answer most of your questions, easy as pie. The hotel will refer you to Saba divers. There is one other diving outfit. I'm sure they're good. We went with Corey and his wife Gillian, and wow! While the Queens Gardens might very well account for our perfect scenic and comfy topside stay, Saba Divers, are wholly responsible for a truly unforgettable diving experience. 

In Corey and Gil we trust! 

The staff at the Queens will go out of their way. And I'm not just saying that. Harry will serve you breakfast like you're family, but he's just as likely to pick you up in town by chance, seeing you're stranded without a cab. 
Frank, waiting on us. professionnel to the core. Also inquired about my wife who was experiencing a bit of muscle pain. The next day, he brought his own medicine which ended up helping just in time for our next dive. 
Duco, the fast moving passionate gin aficionado seems like he's everywhere in the hotel. Pure efficiency. 
The staff, the place, really work like a well tuned orchestra. 
As such, The maestro deserves our praise. Claire the owner the hotel and Bubba restaurant in town, very finely takes care of everyone. Knowing you by name the second day, dropping us in town when she was heading that way, all in all making our sojourn such an incredible experience. No wonder so many people keep returning. 
Which we might very well end up doing as well. Tx a million for the perfect vacation!