Salybia Nature Resort & Spa

Salybia Nature Resort & Spa is a small, relaxed property with an atmosphere that struggles to be both upscale and romantic. The decor is an odd blend of Colonial Plantation-inspired architecture and dated, tropical-inspired furniture in aging wicker and rattan, along with bulky black leather sofas and vinyl seating. A black wrought-iron chandelier hangs overhead in the lobby. While its secluded location might works in the hotel’s favor for some guests, the complete lack of proximity to any attractions at all creates an eerie feeling of quiet and solitude. An 80-foot outdoor pool, complete with waterfalls and a pool bar, serves as the hotel’s centerpiece, while the on-site restaurant provides additional communal space for dining and cocktails both indoor and alfresco. Kids are welcome here, but the vast majority of guests are vacationing couples looking to get away from it all.

Salybia Nature Resort & Spa is situated on a secluded road with no restaurants, shops, or other attractions in the immediate vicinity. Guests will want a car to explore anything in the area. The nearest services of note -- including a market, hospital, and a handful of restaurants -- are in the tiny, landlocked town of Cunapo, roughly 30 minutes away by car. It's about 90 minutes to Port of Spain by car. Maracas Bay and Las Cuevas Beach -- considered two of the most beautiful shores on the island -- are about a two-hour drive from the hotel. 

The hotel is a one-hour drive from Piarco International Airport. However, the island’s traffic is notoriously awful in inclement weather and can increase this travel time substantially. The hotel does not provide a dedicated shuttle, but private shuttle service is easy to arrange upon arrival at the airport. This is typically a better option with larger groups traveling together as rates are often determined on a per-vehicle basis. Taxi service is readily available between the hotel and airport, with official fixed rates set by the island government. Parking at the hotel is free and secure. 

Each of the 23 rooms at Salybia Nature Resort is individually decorated with a piecemeal decor that lacks much of a cohesive look. The Colonial Plantation-style architecture is typical of Trinidad & Tobago, however, in this instance, it falls short of charming. That being said, they are almost pleasant enough for a few nights near the sea, though certain rooms are more dated than others and style varies greatly.

Entry-level room categories -- including Queen Deluxe and Double Deluxe -- are similar in size, layout, and amenities. Standard amenities in all rooms include a mini-fridge, coffee-making kit, and a private, ocean-view balcony. Upgraded room categories -- including Luxury Suite and Superior Deluxe Rooms -- offer all of the above, plus a private hot tub. A single, seven-room Villa has a full kitchen, numerous dedicated seating areas, multiple bedrooms with en-suite baths, and private balconies. As further testament to the dated nature of the hotel, some rooms only provide tube-style televisions. There's no in-room Wi-Fi and air-conditioners don't always function well.

The bathrooms are basic and modestly sized, but are outdated and bland. Aging white tile, dull fixtures, and cheap shower stalls are all in desperate need of updating. Light splashes of pastel color in the tropical-inspired accent tiles in some bathrooms only underscore the unintentionally retro decor. Past guests have complained about everything from cleanliness issues to mold and lack of hot water. 

One major perk is that the rooms make excellent use of the resort’s waterfront location as all offer a private balcony or patio with bay views. As might be expected, the property’s remote location makes it especially quiet at night, with little noise or distraction from the nearby road.

The single infinity pool is clean and spacious. The entire pool deck centers around a large waterfall that adds a bit of visual interest. A wooden canopy along the pool’s southern edge provides shade for guests looking to escape the direct sun. The adjacent pool bar serves a full menu of beer, wine, and cocktails. Note that it’s frequently closed during low occupancy periods and most areas surrounding the pool could use a fresh coat of paint or a deep scrub. A beach at the back of the property provides lovely views of Saline Bay. Unfortunately, it's not usable due to rough and strong currents, and the nearest ocean view lounge chairs are located on the pool deck, set back from the water. 

The Caribbean-meets-Colonial-Plantation Paradise Restaurant shows the hotel’s age perhaps more than any other common area on the property. Dark rattan chairs, faded paisley colors, and servers in antiquated uniforms create a vintage look that's not appealing. The restaurant provides all-day a la carte dining, however, free breakfast and dinner are only included with specific stay packages. The lunch and dinner menus are Caribbean-inspired and available for indoor or al fresco dining on the restaurant’s outdoor garden terrace. A dedicated, though sparsely appointed bar near the lobby offers a full menu of beer, wine, and liquor. All-inclusive packages are offered, but have restrictions such as not including lunch, so it's best to check ahead.

The hotel’s Sea Mist Spa offers a full menu of massage and beauty treatments. Its rooms and hallways are minimally appointed with little decor or furnishings, except for a few pops of Caribbean color throughout. There's a small and dated fitness center with treadmills and free weights arranged on blue carpet. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby.