History
Montpelier’s story begins in 1687, when Sir Hans Sloane, Secretary of the Royal Society of England, visited Nevis and first documented this hillside location. More than a century later, the site became known well beyond the island itself when it hosted the wedding of Horatio Nelson to Frances “Fanny” Nisbet, niece of Nevis’ then president, John Herbert — a moment that firmly placed Montpelier in the island’s historical narrative.
During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Nevis was one of the wealthiest islands in the Caribbean, driven by the success of the sugar industry. Montpelier played its part during this period, before the decline of sugar production led the island into a long and quieter chapter. In 1960, James Milnes-Gaskell acquired the property with the vision of transforming the remains of the historic site into a hotel. In 2002, Montpelier was purchased by the Hoffman family, who continue to guide the property today, shaping it into the characterful boutique hotel it is now.
The Hoffman Family
Montpelier has been owned by the family since 2002. When Muffin and her late husband, Lincoln, together with their son Timothy and his wife Meredith, first saw Montpelier, they immediately knew it was a place they wanted to shape and care for.
Since then, the family has remained closely involved in the life of the hotel, guiding its atmosphere and direction with a hands-on, thoughtful approach. The focus has always been on creating a place that feels welcoming and personal, where guests are known by name and return year after year.
Working alongside a long-standing team, Montpelier continues to be shaped by warmth, consistency, and a genuine sense of hospitality.
Cosmo and Marley
Cosmo and Marley are Montpelier’s resident Labradors and a familiar part of daily life at the hotel. Cosmo, the yellow Labrador, and Marley, the brown Labrador, can often be found resting on a veranda, strolling through the gardens, or keeping an eye on passing guests — occasionally distracted by butterflies or the island’s ever-curious monkeys. Calm, friendly, and entirely at ease, they add to the relaxed atmosphere of the hotel and are quickly recognised as part of what makes Montpelier feel welcoming.
Montpelier Gallery
- All
- From The Archives
- Through the Years
