We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful, serene, delicious vacation spot. We stayed in the Breadfruit Suite, which was a huge 3-room suite with wood slat blinds, volcanic spring fed shower, and a hot pool right below our room for our enjoyment. The grounds were a botanical dream of short trails through lush rainforest, hot and cool natural pools, lichen covered stone statues. No mosquitos even though we had no screens. And the restaurant was to die for. Beautiful open air space overlooking the valley that goes down to Roseau. Night creatures singing during dinner and exotic birds singing at breakfast. Very simple fresh foods prepared exquisitely. Not too much food, nor too little. Delicious healthy desserts. I can honestly say I have never felt more relaxed and happy on a vacation than I was when we stayed at the Papillote. Our two boys, aged 13 and 10, thought it was all so cool, even thought there was no TV. Can't say enough good things about the place.

The four or five acres of this rainforest lodge encompass what may be the MOST beautiful tropical botanical gardens in the world. The sloping hillside gardens feature a 90-foot waterfall, dozens and dozens of tall tree ferns, cacao trees (chocolate), bromeliads, hot volcanic springs and streams 9and warm geothermal pools for soaking, cool mountain streams with a second, stunning, two-tiered waterfall and cool pools for soaking, every sort of tropical plant, vine, breadfruit trees, hummingbirds, paw-paws (papaya), etc. All in three of four acres lovingly developed by Anne and Cuthrbert Jno. Baptiste.

The restaurant and lodging buildings are present, blend with the environment, and are surrounded by and covered with the vegetation. The rooms are basic with mosquito nets and no screens, louvered shutters, and a breeze (sometimes brisk) helping to cool. The weather alternates between showers and intermittent sunshine about every eight minutes. The staff was very nice, courteous, and helpful. We liked the cheeseburgers.

This is a great spot for photography and the gardens really should be cloned and duplicated throughout the tropics. Trafalgar Falls is 1/3 of a mile further up the road.

The principle drawbacks are these: This is not lodging for the traveler expecting luxuries. We wish that the rooms had air-condtioning, for example (and even screens would have been nice). Secondly, nearby Roseau has transitioned in recent decades from a large village to a small city, so that the least agreeable thing about Papillote is having to reach it by driving through Roseau.

We applaud the Jno. Baptistes and their staff for offering visitors one of the most beautiful tropical botanic gardens in the world.... and we thank them for our stay.

Our stay was satisfactory. The main thing to realize is that Papillote may "drop the ball" with arrangements. Enjoyment and safety should be a higher priority at Papillote.

Papillote arranged our transportation from the airport and what we got was a “3-hour milk run” bus. If you are not ready for a tour of the island, then make your own arrangements. There are taxis at the airport that will go directly to Papillote for same fare. Early breakfasts must be ordered the night before and remind whomever you see first in the morning of your arrangements. Do not assume cooking staff were advised or that they have not already given it away to someone who arrived earlier than you. If you order a drink, wait for it -- out of sight is out of mind. Our drinks which were to be delivered to the lower hot pool were given away to the first person on the main level patio that was willing to take that drink. No effort was made to remember who you are, where you were going or what your requests were.

Upon our arrival, there was no welcome; no smile; and no enquiry as to our condition after travel. There was no one to carry our luggage to the room – pack two suitcases instead of one heavy suit case, as there are numerous stairs with minimal light. Some lights along the path from the restaurant to the rooms did not work for the entire 6-day visit so bringing a flashlight.

The guide which Papillote arranged for our hike to Boiling Lake changed the price for transportation, once he drove us to the trailhead. He also advised us that the price quoted by Papillote was for 6 hours of hiking, after that there would be an additional hourly rate charged. His only goal was to finish the hike as quickly as possible with no concern for the experience of those paying. I can say proudly we finished the challenging hike and it is well worth the time and expense but be careful regarding your choice of guide.

The housekeeping staff are friendly and kept the room clean. Food is adequate but nothing exceptional. The gardens are incredible and the hot pools very enjoyable. Be aware that the water in the hot pools may permanently stain whites and some fabrics.

From Papillote, you can reach Trafalgar Falls, all activities in Laudat (i.e., Boiling Lake, Titou Gorge), Roseau, Soufriere and Scotts Head easily. The inn is located in the mountains/rainforest and is secluded with spectacular views of the valley. You will need a jeep/taxi to visit any sites or for meals elsewhere. It rained heavily every day for a short period of time as expected in the rainforest. We loved Dominica; Dominicans are justifiably proud of their island and are very helpful; it is a nature lover’s paradise.

If relaxation is what you seek, whether that means sitting in a rainforest garden watching the birds or hiking to hot springs and waterfalls, Papillote is the place to be. Our third stay there was, as always, a treat. The management and staff are very friendly and accomodating, the rooms are airy and comfortable, the food is wonderful, and the grounds are beautiful. A dip in one of three spring fed hot pools dotted around the grounds is a special treat after a long hike.