Perched on the tail end of the Florida Keys, beautiful Key West is the southernmost town in the continental US. Just 90 miles from its shores lies Havana, putting the Cuban capital closer to the town than Miami which is nearly twice as far away. Beloved by writers, actors and presidents, the 150-mile journey south from Miami is one of the best drives in America - so hop into a hire car or take the Greyhound down. You’ll be rewarded with miles of coast tie-dyed eight different shades of blue stretching into the horizon before hitting the end of highway US-1.
Where should we stay?
Close to the action of Duval Street, the main strip, The Gardens Hotel shields its residents in both privacy as well as the heat of the Key West sun. Dating back to the 1800s and formerly The Gardens Mansion, the historic site opened as a luxury hotel in the ‘30s and now features a selection of guest cottages in tropical style (think vast, plump beds and lots of yew and mahogany wood), and luxury suites and rooms all collected around a heated pool, luscious botanical gardens, fountains and ponds.
What else is there to do?
The hotel hosts events year-round, from jazz evenings to fundraising galas; all of which are complimentary for residents. Bicycle rentals allow you to explore Key West at your own pace or hop aboard the famous Conch train to take you around the local sights. Fancy a little R&R? The Gardens can book professional masseurs to allow you to unwind without stepping a toe out of your suite or cottage.
Luxury Hideaway
For couples that prize comfort and privacy, The Gardens delivers on all counts. You’ll be welcomed with a glass of Prosecco at check-in, before being shown around the resort by concierge services -who can help with everything from sunset boat trips to table reservations for the best restaurants in town. Hammocks and loveseats can be found amongst the flora and fauna of The Gardens, creating quiet spots for romantic trysts.
Raise a Glass
Guests of The Gardens are a lucky bunch. The boutique hotel boasts a self-serving wine room, where you can peruse dozens of world and American wines before sampling them by the glass or bottle-full, any time of day or night. Meanwhile, the poolside tiki bar, fully stocked with beer, champagne and spirits, is manned by a knowledgeable and amiable bartender, who dispenses invaluable local tips alongside expertly made cocktails, making it the perfect spot to kick-off the night’s adventures!
Island Style
Welcome to Cottage One, a thoroughly lovely option featuring an airy living room with dramatic vaulted ceilings and tall windows, allowing the sun to flood in. The room funnels into a master bedroom complete with a king bed, forming the ultimate in island-style romance. The master bathroom is a tribute to decadence, with custom marble tile work, designer vanity, and a dramatic black crystal chandelier. The generously sized private porch overlooks the pool - open all night allowing you to take a midnight dip if the mood strikes!
The Rooms
The guestrooms feature private entrances, large French windows and outdoor verandahs where you can enjoy breakfast in the mornings. Inside, you’ll find Wi-Fi throughout, enormous beds and polished marble bathrooms stocked with suncream, loofahs and luxury toiletries. The rooms make the ultimate honeymoon hideaway for those visiting for just a handful of days. However, if you’re planning to indulge in laidback island life for a week or more, set up residence in one of the cottages. Each feature a living area, vaulted ceilings and huge windows giving you the space and freedom to enjoy the first days of newlywed life in a home away from home.
The Khush Verdict
From the moment you arrive until check out, The Gardens oozes the kind of charm and hospitality that Key?West is world-renowned for. Friendly staff take care of every need, and even when the hotel’s full, it never feels crowded. What's more, its excellent location puts you a hop, skip and jump away from Key West’s attractions, making a trip to Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum or the marina as easy as (Key Lime) pie.
www.gardenshotel.com