Imagine Gilligan''s Island on Steroids or Robinson Crusoe building the Bel-Air Hotel.
We arrived at the LPI guest reception on Little Torch Key. There we were greeted with a ice cold beverage and escorted onto the resort''s beautiful private launch that carried us off to the island. On our way, we happened to pass by a manatee, a lucky treat that our captain pointed out.
LPI is a real labor of love, with a wonderful history as well. She''s the jewel in the Noble House chain of hotels. The resort is comprised of 14 Palmleaf-thatched bungalows (28 villas). They share this five-acre island with a fine staff that only want to make their lucky guests happy . . . egrets, herons, frigates, pelicans, Key deer, iguanas, everywhere, holding fort . . .
The bungalows are close to the most romantic places on Earth . . . Every villa with private front deck, living room, changing room, bedroom, and bath. The bedroom was totally tropical and sexy. Outdoor showers overlooking the Atlantic. Man . . .
Fortunately, our five-night package included the meal plan. Chef Adam Votaw was truly inspired. While there, he was shooting a TV spot for the "Today Show". During the day, we''d see him and film crew parading around the island. It was funny and we were very happy for him. Though we were over-indulged, we never grew tired of his culinary skills, including his famous "Lobster Martini".
Wonderful,live jazz each night was an added treat. We dined on the beach by torchlight as a trio played wondeful torch songs. Key deer (they swim from island to island during low tide) would come around the table for some of the bread rolls. The waiters didn''t care for this at all, even though we loved it.
LPI has it all: luxury, tranquility, gorgeous landscape, interesting guests, romance . . . the best massage of my life . . . even a picturesque zen garden.
Especially memorable are the many long piers that jet off the island at different locations. Lounge chairs strategically placed at various points for different perspectives. Different crafts and vessels would pull in and dock for a day or two. I loved walking past them during the day.
A couple of suggestions: if you''re looking for a great beach, it''s not here. Best described as small, yet well maintained. The pool area and bar were just fine for us.
I''d also recommend that guests request oceanview rooms, primarily #20-28. This side of the island is less windy. The most private rooms are #14-17, in the back of the island.
LPI is a place you should visit at least once, preferably for a special occasion.
Note: The Sports Illustrated 2003 edition just came out with many pictures shot at LPI. This happened a couple of weeks before we got there. Rats!!!!