Saba

Saba isn't a coral atoll like many of its neighbours and it doesn't have beaches to speak of, but it does have some fantastic diving. The best places to stay on Saba tend to be either charming little red and white cottages or friendly diving centres.

Tiny Saba is a surprisingly mountainous member of the Leeward Island group, known sometimes as the 'Unspoiled Queen' due to its protected eco system. The peaks and cliffs are volcanic and coated in a wonderfully lush tropical green. While its pretty red roofed houses make it feel like a fairytale island.

Saba is technically part of the Netherlands, but most of its population speaks English, and there's something very English about the white clapboard houses with their neat trim. There's also a certain eccentricity to Saba - seen in the collection of small museums, colourfully painted church and local handicrafts.

While this isn't a coral atoll, there are plenty of reefs to explore just under the water and plenty of aqua-explorers to meet, including sharks, giant turtles and all kinds of brightly coloured fish.

Saba's unspoiled interior makes it a bit of a Garden of Eden for hikers. The highest peak, aptly named Mt. Scenery, has 1064 stairs right to the top which may wear you out but it's worth it!

What not to miss:

• Climb the 1064 stairs to the top of Mt. Scenery.
• Spot tropical fish amidst the colourful reefs on a snorkelling or scuba diving trip.
• Hike through the rainforest along well marked trails.
• Explore Saba's four towns: Windwardside, The Bottom, Hell's Gate and St. Johns.

The best places to stay in Saba get booked out fast so be sure to organise your trip well in advance.

For families

• The Cottage Club is a bijou island hideaway of self catering bungalows with fabulous sea views for very reasonable rates, all set amongst tropical green grounds, perched on a hillside. There's a pool and great access to watersports and other island fun.
• Juiana's is another good option for families with rooms, cottages and an apartment for four, situated in the centre of town. All accommodations have verandahs with hammocks for soaking up the view, and some have kitchenettes.

For luxury

• Queen's Gardens Resort is a stunning five star property on Mount Troy. Here you can expect chic interiors, majestic tropical surroundings and gourmet food. Plus with only 12 suites it's the perfect Caribbean hideaway.

For great value

• Selera Dunia only has two rooms which have been beautifully designed and feature many interesting objets d'art, four poster beds and balconies with hammocks. It's a complete steal with prices starting from only £74 per night.

Travel information

• Fly to Princess Juliana airport located on St. Maarten from where a small plane or ferry can be taken on to Saba itself.
• Best time to visit - Saba is a year round destination however the winter months of December to February are the most popular months when it's slightly cooler. The summer season also brings rain and humidity. Hurricane season officially runs from JUne to November.
• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay on Saba.
• Alternatively, expand your search by checking out all our Caribbean recommendations.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.