The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne, Florida

The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne

For me, travelling the world is all about the thrill of being constantly surprised by a new destination or having pre-conceptions blown out of the water - thankfully, The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne achieved a double whammy. My thoughts of Miami had previously conjured images of partying with the glitterati amidst South Beach's art deco grandeur or wading through the swampy mangroves of the Everglades on alligator patrol. However, what I discovered at The Ritz-Carlton was a haven of relaxation on a little-known island just east of Miami's mainland. In fact, I had never heard of Key Biscayne, which until 1947 remained undeveloped, despite the alluring nature reserves, pristine beaches and rich history.

Unsurprisingly, Key Biscayne's tourism potential has since been tapped, and the jewel in the island's crown has to be the sprawling Ritz-Carlton hotel. After a long flight and several hours delay due to a rather inconvenient volcanic ash cloud, the warmth of the beautiful atrium-style lobby instantly indicated that my stay would be one of relaxation, shoving the memories of cramped leg-room and unappetizing in-flight meals immediately into the distant past.

Arriving at night, I couldn't fully appreciate the breathtaking view from my suite (which, I hasten to add, could have happily accommodated me for life it was so spacious). But as soon as the next day dawned, the breeze-whipped palms and glittering ocean came into view and a satisfied grin spread across my face as the hotel's stunning gardens, private beach and pools stretched out before me.

In true British fashion, when the first rays of sun were in sight, I jumped into my swim suit with lightening speed and headed down to the stunning beach cabanas to lobsterfy myself. With floating white curtains and pillows that engulf you in their softness, the cabanas were a little touch of heaven overlooking the beach and pool. with butler service on top you may just refuse to leave at the end of the day.

Thankfully, I had a treatment at the spa to lure me away. With over 21 treatments rooms, a fitness centre, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi, the spa was the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate. My Signature Coco-Luscious Body Treatment saw me rubbed from head to toe with raw sugar cane and coconut oil, mummified in a pineapple cocoon wrap and slathered in buttery moisturizer - leaving me exfoliated, super soft and in a state of utter bliss.

That night, dinner was at the oceanfront Cantina Beach restaurant for a taste of regional Mexican cuisine and South Florida's largest tequila collection, with a trained tequila specialist on hand to provide recommendations. With fresh guacamole prepared at the table, a pot of melted cheese, Mexico fondue style, and some mini crab crispy tacos serving as appetizers, I was more than content. Chef Andres has stayed close to his Mexican roots with the menu, opting for delicious mains like marinated fish and Adobo salsa rice, instead of the more clichéd Tex-Mex fare. Even the dessert of key lime pie was given a Mexican twist with a splash of tequila and guava sauce, providing a creamy, yet refreshing, finale to a magnificent meal.

The next morning I fleetingly toyed with the idea of burning off a few of the calories I had consumed, but after flitting between the idea of hitting a few volley shots at the hotel's well-equipped tennis centre, teeing off at the nearby picturesque Crandon Golf course or partaking in a class at the fitness centre, I decided that a walk down to the pool and a leisurely swim would suffice before it was time to leave.

Although Key Biscayne might not be on everyone's radar when visiting Miami, it is definitely a great choice for those looking to totally unwind before heading to the high-energy city or liveliness of South Beach just 10 minutes away. By the end of my stay the hotel's relaxed vibe had definitely banished any jet lag blues and replaced them with an aura of calm and contentment.

The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne
455 Grand Bay Drive, Key Biscayne, Florida, USA
Tel: (305) 365 4500.
Website: www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/KeyBiscayne
Prices start at $269 per room, per night.